Hozenji Temple
About Hozenji Temple
A small but beautiful temple in the heart of Osaka. Famous for the Mizukake Fudo statue which is covered in a thick moss.
Established in 1637, Hozenji Temple is a small but busy temple dedicated to the Buddhist deity Fudo, the kami of fury. Known for its unique Mizukake Fudo statue, years of being splashed with water in prayer has caused the statue to cover in a thick moss, softening the normally angry and fierce face.
The temple once covered a large area, however severe damage during the bombing of World War II has reduced it to only a few hundred square meters. The statue of Fudo was the only artefact that remained.
Despite its small size, it is an exceptionally busy temple with a packed schedule of rituals, ceremonies, and events. You will often see local workers and restaurant owners stopping by to pay their respects as they go about their day.
The temple is accessed along the picturesque Hozenji Yokocho alley, adding to its mystical charm.