Osaka is home to a rich tapestry of spiritual sites, and the Combo Tour of Shitennoji and Isshinji Temples offers an insightful journey through this captivating history. Discover the ancient legacy of Shitennoji, founded in 593 by Prince Shotoku, and explore the modern Isshinji Temple, where the unique Bone Buddha resides. With a knowledgeable guide leading the way, uncover the profound stories that have shaped these significant religious landmarks. Whether you’re seeking a deeper understanding of Japan’s Buddhist heritage or simply wish to learn about Osaka’s cultural treasures, this tour promises an enlightening adventure.

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Key Points

This 2.5-hour combo tour in Osaka visits the historically significant Shitennoji Temple and the modern Isshinji Temple, providing insights into Japanese Buddhist spirituality.
The tour is available in English and Japanese, with a private group option, and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Highlights include exploring Shitennoji’s tranquil gardens, learning about the temple’s role in spreading Buddhism, and discovering the spiritual significance of Isshinji’s Bone Buddha.
Travelers can expect a guided tour of Shitennoji lasting 1.5 hours, followed by a 1-hour visit to Isshinji Temple, with the tour concluding at Isshinji.
The tour has received a 5-out-of-5-star rating from diverse travelers, who praised the captivating stories and legends shared by the guide and the immersion in Buddhist spirituality.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The tour lasts 2.5 hours and costs between £102.74 and £83.22 per person, depending on the savings.

It’s available in English and Japanese, and a private group option is offered.

Travelers can reserve now and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

The tour starts at Shitennoji Temple and ends at Isshinji Temple, with guided visits to both.

Highlights include learning the history and legends of the temples, experiencing the serenity of Shitennoji’s garden, and discovering the unique Bone Buddha and modern architecture of Isshinji.

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Temples Visited

Two significant temples are visited on this tour.

First is Shitennoji, one of Japan’s oldest temples built in 593 by Prince Shotoku. It’s renowned for spreading Buddhism throughout the country. Visitors will learn about the temple’s history and see its peaceful gardens.

The second temple is Isshinji, known for its modern architecture and Bone Buddha which houses the ashes of over 2 million Osaka residents.

Guests will discover the unique aspects of this temple and gain insight into the spirituality of Buddhism, a core part of Japanese culture.

Itinerary Details

The tour begins at Shitennoji Temple (四天王寺石鳥居), where the guide with a yellow DeepExperience logo will meet participants in front of the Stone Torii Gate.

The guide will then lead a 1.5-hour tour of Shitennoji, one of Japan’s oldest temples built in 593 by Prince Shotoku.

Next, the group will visit Isshinji Temple for a 1-hour guided tour.

Isshinji is known for its modern architecture and Bone Buddha, housing the ashes of over 2 million Osaka residents.

The tour finishes at Isshinji Temple.

Shitennoji Temple

One of Japan’s oldest temples, Shitennoji was built in 593 by Prince Shotoku, playing a significant role in spreading Buddhism throughout the region.

The guided tour of this iconic landmark takes visitors through its expansive grounds, showcasing the temple’s beautiful gardens and architecture.

Travelers will learn about the temple’s rich history and the important role it has played in Japanese culture.

With its tranquil atmosphere and spiritual significance, Shitennoji is a must-see destination for anyone interested in exploring the country’s religious heritage and seeing the beauty of traditional Japanese architecture.

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Isshinji Temple

Isshinji Temple is known for its modern architecture and the Bone Buddha, which houses the ashes of over 2 million ancestors of Osaka residents. The temple’s unique design and spiritual significance make it a must-visit on this tour. Visitors can explore the temple’s serene grounds and learn about the Bone Buddha, a symbolic representation of the city’s collective history.

Feature	Description
Architecture	Modern, minimalist design
Bone Buddha	Ashes of over 2 million Osaka residents
Significance	Spiritual connection to the city’s history

Isshinji Temple offers a profound and thought-provoking experience, providing a unique window into Osaka’s rich cultural heritage.

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Tour Highlights

While exploring Shitennoji and Isshinji Temples, visitors can look forward to several highlights that capture the essence of Japanese culture and spirituality.

They’ll learn captivating stories and legends about these historic sites. At Shitennoji, they’ll experience the tranquil beauty of the temple’s scenic gardens.

Then, at Isshinji, they’ll discover the unique Bone Buddha and the temple’s modern architectural design, providing a contrast to the traditional Shitennoji.

Throughout the tour, travelers will encounter the profound spirituality of Buddhism, a key aspect of Japanese identity.

Customer Feedback

The Osaka Temple Tour has received overwhelmingly positive customer feedback, with an overall rating of 5 out of 5 stars based on 2 reviews.

Travelers from various backgrounds, including couples, groups, solo travelers, and families, have praised the tour.

Customers highlighted the tour’s ability to provide insights into the stories and legends of the temples, the tranquility of Shitennoji’s garden, and the unique architecture and Bone Buddha at Isshinji.

The tour has been recognized for its ability to immerse participants in the spirituality of Buddhism, a key aspect of Japanese culture.

Booking and Availability

How can travelers book the Osaka Temple Tour? The tour can be reserved directly on the DeepExperience website.

Travelers have the option to pay now or reserve their spot and pay later. The tour is available in both English and Japanese, making it accessible to a wide range of visitors.

Group tours are also an option for those traveling with friends or family. With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, travelers can book with confidence.

The tour is priced at £83.22 per person, offering a 19% discount from the regular price.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Take Photos Inside the Temples?

Yes, visitors can take photos inside the temples during the tour. However, they should be respectful and avoid disrupting the spiritual atmosphere.

Do I Need to Bring My Own Water and Snacks?

The tour doesn’t provide water or snacks, so it’s a good idea to bring your own. Staying hydrated and having a light snack can help you stay energized during the 2.5-hour tour of the temples.

Is There a Dress Code for the Tour?

There’s no strict dress code for this tour, but visitors are advised to wear comfortable, modest clothing that covers shoulders and knees. This helps respect the temples’ sacred nature. Casual attire is generally fine.

Can I Extend the Tour Duration if Needed?

The tour duration is set at 2.5 hours, but you can’t extend it. However, you can always book an additional private tour if you need more time to explore the temples. The tour operators offer flexible options to accommodate your needs.

Are the Temples Wheelchair Accessible?

The temples are generally wheelchair accessible, though visitors should check with the tour operator for specific details on accessibility. Many historic sites may have some constraints, so advance planning is recommended for those with mobility needs.

The Sum Up

This Osaka temple tour offers an immersive experience into Japan’s rich spiritual heritage. Visitors can explore the historic Shitennoji Temple and the modern Isshinji Temple, gaining insights into Buddhism’s profound influence. With a knowledgeable guide, flexible group sizes, and easy cancellation, this 2.5-hour combo tour provides an enriching way to connect with Osaka’s sacred sites and captivating stories.