Shitennoji Temple hosts numerous traditional events and local festivals throughout the year.
A particular attraction is the opportunity to enjoy not only Buddhist ceremonies but also lively events typical of Osaka.
7-1. Annual Spring and Autumn Equinox Memorial Services [Shitennoji Temple Equinox]
At Shitennoji Temple, the “Higan-e” (equinox service) is held around the spring and autumn equinoxes.
This is a period for honoring ancestors and practicing the Buddhist teachings of the “Six Paramitas.”
【Characteristics of Spring and Autumn Equinox Memorial Services】
<Dates>
・Spring Equinox: Mid-March (one week including the Spring Equinox)
・Autumn Equinox: Mid-September (one week including the Autumn Equinox)
<Main Events>
・A “Lantern Offering” ceremony is held on the temple grounds, creating a magical atmosphere with the light of candles.
・During the memorial service, many worshippers offer incense and remember their ancestors.
7-2. Shitennoji Temple Flea Market (Temple Festival)【Shitennoji Flea Market】
Shitennoji Temple is famous for its monthly “Shitennoji Temple Temple Festival/Flea Market.” Historically known as “Kobo-san’s Market” and “Taishi-san’s Market,” it’s a quintessential Osaka event.
【Basic Information on the Shitennoji Temple Flea Market】
・Dates: 21st of each month (Kobo Daishi’s festival day) and 22nd (Prince Shotoku’s festival day)
・Time: Approximately 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM
・Location: Throughout the Shitennoji Temple grounds
【Highlights】
・Find bargains on antiques, collectibles, used books, kimonos, and more.
・Enjoy street food and snacks at the many stalls and vendors.
・Experience the lively atmosphere unique to Osaka.
🔹 Shitennoji Flea Market
This market is popular with both tourists and locals, so be sure to visit if your timing is right!
7-3. Other Seasonal Events and Memorial Services【Shitennoji Temple Memorial Services】
Shitennoji Temple holds various events throughout the year.
🔸January【New Year’s Grand Memorial Service/Shushōe】
<Content> A memorial service praying for peace and happiness at the beginning of the year
<Features>
・Held for 7 days from New Year’s Day
・”Fukuzasa” (lucky bamboo branches) and other auspicious items are distributed on the temple grounds
🔸April【Shōryōe/Shōtoku Taishi Memorial Service】
<Date> April 22
<Content>
・A memorial service commemorating the death anniversary of Prince Shōtoku
・The oldest traditional Japanese court dance, “Shitennoji Bugaku,” is performed
・The Bugaku dance performed on the “Ishibutai” (stone stage), a designated Important Cultural Property, is solemn and fantastical
🔸July【Mantō Kuyōe (Lantern Offering Ceremony)】
<Dates> Mid-July to August
<Contents>
・A fantastical nighttime Buddhist service where thousands of lanterns are lit within the grounds of Shitennoji Temple.
・Many worshippers visit during Obon to honor the spirits of their ancestors.
🔸December【New Year’s Eve Bell Ringing】
<Dates> Night of December 31st
<Contents>
・General worshippers can also ring the “bell that dispels the 108 worldly desires” (numbered tickets required).
・On New Year’s Eve, you can welcome the new year in a solemn atmosphere.
Shitennoji Temple holds events throughout the year that allow you to feel its history and tradition, and you will discover something new every time you visit.