Located in Minoh City, katsuo-ji temple is a must visit destination in the Osaka suburbs, just a one-hour drive from the city center. The most striking feature here is the countless “Daruma dolls” scattered throughout the temple grounds. This has made katsuo-ji temple highly revered as a place to pray for victory, career success, and good fortune.
Furthermore, katsuo-ji temple is beautiful in all four seasons, offering romantic views of cherry blossoms, autumn maples, and snowy landscapes, making it a top choice for any Osaka trip. Today, I will introduce the worship process, transportation to the temple, and nearby attractions to help you plan the perfect visit!
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Transportation to Katsuo-ji Temple
Accessing katsuo-ji temple is convenient from various parts of the Kansai region. Here are the primary methods:
Via Subway + Bus
Take the Midosuji Subway Line to “Senri-Chuo Station,” then transfer to a local bus and get off at the “katsuo-ji temple” stop.
📌 Osaka Metro & Bus Pass: Klook
Via JR + Bus
If you are coming from other areas, take the JR line to “Minoh Station,” then transfer to a bus or take a taxi to reach the temple.
📌 Kansai Railway Card / JR Kansai Area Pass: KKday｜Klook
Via Taxi / Private Charter
The most time-efficient way is to take a taxi from “Senri-Chuo Station” or “Minoh Station,” which takes about 15–20 minutes to reach katsuo-ji temple. Alternatively, you can book a private day charter from Osaka or Kyoto city hotels, allowing you to customize your itinerary and avoid the hassle of public transport.
📌 Private Car Charter Day Tour: KKday｜Klook
Katsuo-ji Temple Admission
While transport to katsuo-ji temple is straightforward, please note that there is an admission fee to enter the grounds:
- Adults: 500 JPY (approx. $3.30 USD)
- Elementary & Junior High Students: 400 JPY (approx. $2.65 USD)
- Preschoolers: 100 JPY (approx. $0.65 USD)
- Under 2 years old: Free
Guide to Worshipping at Katsuo-ji Temple
Worship Route
When visiting katsuo-ji temple, it is recommended to wear comfortable walking shoes to enjoy the scenery along the path. The suggested worship route is as follows:
Sanmon Gate → Purification Bridge → Daruma Wall → Main Hall (Hondo) → Omamori Sales Area → Stamp Station
The Sanmon Gate serves as the boundary to katsuo-ji temple. It was built by Toyotomi Hideyori (the son of Toyotomi Hideyoshi) and his mother. Beyond the gate, cross the stone steps and the Purification Bridge, where mist often envelops the bridge in a sacred atmosphere, said to drive away bad luck.
Continuing upward, you will reach the famous Daruma Wall. This is arguably the most popular spot in the temple, where rows of Daruma dolls create a solemn yet auspicious atmosphere. After the wall, you will arrive at the Main Hall (Hondo), which enshrines the Thousand-Armed Kannon (Senju Kannon). Sutras are chanted here year-round, bringing a sense of inner peace to visitors.
Finally, you can visit the shop to purchase **katsuo-ji temple** Omamori (charms) and obtain a Goshuin (temple seal) as a spiritual souvenir.
Steps for Prayer at Katsuo-ji Temple
If you wish to pray with a “Winning Daruma” at katsuo-ji temple, please follow these prayer steps:
- Choose a Daruma doll that you feel a connection with from the various sizes available.
- Write your goal or wish for the year on the back, and your specific objective on the bottom.
- Light incense to express gratitude to the people and things related to your goal.
- Pass the Daruma through the incense smoke to purify it.
- With a sincere heart, paint the “left eye” (the doll’s own right, your left when facing it) and take it home.
- Look at your Daruma every day at home to stay committed to your wish.
- Once your wish is granted or your goal is achieved, paint the “right eye” and bring it back to katsuo-ji temple to show your gratitude.
While purchasing a Daruma or an Omamori is sufficient for most, if you seek divine guidance, you can purchase a Daruma Omikuji (fortune slip). Please note that you should only consult the fortune once a year to reflect on your current situation.
Steps for the Postcard Stamping Collection
A unique feature of katsuo-ji temple is the commemorative postcard. You can pick one up at the entrance and visit six different stamping stations located at the Daruma Wall, the Main Hall, and other landmarks.
By layering the stamps from each location, you will eventually create a complete, multi-colored image on the postcard. The designs are updated periodically, making each visit’s collection unique and meaningful.
Introduction to Katsuo-ji Charms (Omamori)
Beyond the famous Daruma dolls, the temple offers a wide variety of Omamori for career success, love, victory, academic achievement, and health.
One of the most popular items is the gold and silver “Katsun-Omamori” (Success Charm). This bell-shaped Daruma charm symbolizes victory and allows you to carry the temple’s good fortune with you.
Nearby Attractions Around Katsuo-ji Temple
Nearby Spot #1 | Minoo Falls (Minoo-no-taki)
Ranked as one of Japan’s top 100 waterfalls, Minoo Falls is a breathtaking natural landmark, especially during the autumn maple season. It is only a 15-minute drive from katsuo-ji temple.
Located within Minoh Park, you can hike along the mountain path for about 30-40 minutes to reach the falls. It’s a perfect way to enjoy the fresh mountain air and feel the magnificent power of nature.
Nearby Spot #2 | Minoo Park
Minoo Park is located in Minoh City, right next to katsuo-ji temple, making it an ideal companion for a day trip. You can easily reach it via the same transportation routes.
Connected to the waterfall path, it is a great place for families and couples to stroll. Please be aware that there are many wild monkeys in the area; keep a close eye on your belongings and do not feed them.
Nearby Spot #3 | Expo ’70 Commemorative Park
If you are using a private charter or driving, we recommend visiting the nearby Expo ’70 Commemorative Park, about a 30-minute drive away. This vast park features Japanese gardens, the Tower of the Sun, and various museums.
If you visit katsuo-ji temple in the spring, this park is a must-visit. It is one of Osaka’s premier cherry blossom spots, with over 5,000 cherry trees and an annual cherry blossom festival.
Nearby Spot #4 | LaLaport EXPOCITY
Located right next to the Expo Park, EXPOCITY is about 30 minutes from katsuo-ji temple. It features Japan’s tallest Ferris wheel, an interactive aqua museum (NIFREL), and a massive shopping mall and food court.
We suggest having lunch and shopping at EXPOCITY after your morning visit to katsuo-ji temple, followed by a relaxing afternoon walk in the park.
Nearby Spot #5 | Oedo Onsen Monogatari Minoh Kanko Hotel
Feeling tired after exploring the Daruma dolls? The nearby Oedo Onsen Monogatari Minoh Kanko Hotel is the perfect place to unwind. It offers traditional Japanese hot springs, saunas, and an Edo-period themed festival area.
With game areas, manga zones, and excellent accommodation options, it’s a great way to wash away the fatigue of travel while immersing yourself in Japanese culture.
That concludes our guide to katsuo-ji temple. From transportation tips to Daruma legends, this temple of victory is a highlights of any Osaka itinerary. May all your wishes come true during your visit!
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