The area stretching from JR Hirano Station to Osaka Metro Hirano Station was formerly known as Hirano-go, and is the oldest settlement in Osaka. Its origins date back to the Asuka period, and many historical buildings can be seen in the charming scenery throughout the town. This time, we will introduce Zenkoji Temple, located in Hirano, a famous hidden gem for walking around Senkouji, where you can take part in the terrifying "Hell Tour" activity, which has been popular for many years.

Senkouji is said to have originated approximately 1,400 years ago when Prince Shotoku built a Buddhist temple to house the Yakushi Nyorai statue in what was then a plain. As the settlement was established with this Yakushido as its starting point, Senkouji is also said to be the birthplace of Hiranogo. Even today, the temple plays an important role in town development, including being the headquarters of the "Hirano Town Development Association."

Senkouji is located in the Hirano Chuo Hondori Shopping District in the southeast corner of Hirano-go, and the north gate appears after a short walk through the arcade. Beside the entrance is a sign depicting a terrifying demon with the words "If you lie, we'll cut out your tongue," immediately building anticipation... or rather, fear of hell.

The main hall, located just past the north gate, was partially burned down during the Summer Siege of Osaka in 1615, but was rebuilt in 1661. Inside are the principal image of Bhaisajyaguru, a statue of Prince Shotoku at the age of two, and statues of the Twelve Heavenly Generals. Every year on January 8th and on the fifteenth night of the mid-autumn festival, the principal image is open to the public.

The long-awaited tour of Hell finally begins. After purchasing a Hell Pass for 100 yen at the temple office next to the main hall (free for children under 5), proceed to the Hell Hall at the back. After checking your Paradise and Hell levels with the machine at the entrance, scan the QR code and proceed through the gate. Inside, you'll find Datsueba, a woman who strips people at the Sanzu River, demons, and King Enma, and the terrifying scenes of Hell are shown alongside animated footage. Outside the hall, even more Hell awaits, including a stone where you can hear the sound of Hell's cauldron and experience stone-paving at Sai-no-kawara.

After touring Hell, head further inside to the building known as Buddha's Land. Descending the stairs to the basement, you'll find a space lined with 151 stone Buddha statues and a colorful mandala painted on the floor. This is a meditation space, perfect for calming your restless mind after touring Hell. Shoes are strictly prohibited on the mandala, so be sure to take them off before sitting in meditation.

Finally, return to the temple office and try your luck with your fortune. As the name "King Enma's Hell Fortune" suggests, the only fortunes you will get are those that lead to hell or bad luck, and it will keep visitors terrified until the very end.

Every human being will eventually go to either hell or paradise. To avoid any problems once you arrive, it's a good idea to do some research beforehand by touring the hells at Senkouji.

Senkouji

4-12-21 Hommachi Osaka City, 547-0044

Google maps

Visiting hours: 8:30-17:30 (reception closes at 17:00)
Closed: Open daily
TEL: 06-6791-2680
Official website

Access

By train:
Approximately 13 minutes walk from the south exit of Hirano Station on the JR Yamatoji Line
Approximately 13 minutes on foot from Exit 4 of Hirano Station on Osaka Metro Tanimachi Line