If you are interested in Japanese traditions and culture, and looking for a unique spiritual experience, this temple might be perfect for you.
However, the temple we will introduce this time is a little different from the temples you have known so far.
By visiting it, you will definitely gain good luck.
Katsuo-ji Temple
Located in northern Osaka and surrounded by mountains and greenery, this temple is known as a temple of good fortune.
It is a very old temple that is said to have been founded about 1,300 years ago.
In other words, it is said to bring good luck in winning in all aspects of life, such as games, exams, and business.
This “winning luck” is called “Kachi-un” （勝ち運） in Japanese.
It is said that great Japanese military commanders of the past also visited this place to pray for victory in battle.
Origin of the Temple Name
Its name, Katsuo-ji （勝尾寺）, literally means “Victory Tail Temple”.
Originally, it was named Shōō-ji （勝王寺）, meaning “Victory King Temple”, after an emperor recovered from illness due to the temple’s prayers.
However, it was considered presumptuous or audacious to “win against the king/emperor,” so the character for “king” （王 – ō） was humbly changed to “tail” （尾 – o）, which has a similar sound.
Thus, it became known as a temple for “winning luck” in a broader sense.
Winning Daruma
The biggest feature of Katsuo-ji Temple is the countless “winning daruma” dolls that are dedicated throughout the temple grounds.
Daruma dolls are Japanese lucky charms, and it’s a well-known custom to fill in one eye when making a wish and the other when it’s granted.
At Katsuo-ji Temple, you can purchase your own “winning Daruma” doll.
Then, you make a wish as you paint in its first eye.
If your wish comes true, you paint in the second eye.
Many people return to the temple to dedicate their completed Daruma, adding to the incredible and awe-inspiring display of dolls whose wishes have already come true.
Seasonal Scenery
Katsuo-ji Temple is located in the mountains and is surrounded by nature.
The autumn foliage is particularly breathtakingly beautiful, attracting many visitors.
You can enjoy seasonal flowers and greenery throughout the year, such as cherry blossoms and rhododendrons in the spring and hydrangeas in early summer.
Just strolling through the spacious temple grounds is a pleasant experience.
How to Get to Katsuo-ji Temple
①Train and Bus
（1）From central Osaka, take the Midosuji subway line （direct connection to Kita-Osaka Kyuko Railway） and get off at “Senri-Chuo Station”.
（2）Take the Hankyu bus （route 29） from Senri-Chuo Station bus terminal.
（3）Take the bus bound for Katsuo-ji or Kibougaoka 4-chome （approximately 500 yen one way） and get off at Katsuo-ji.
The bus journey from Senri-Chuo Station takes approximately 30-40 minutes.
The total travel time from central Osaka will be longer, typically around 1 to 1.5 hours including the train.
②Taxi
You can also take a taxi from Senri-Chuo Station.
The fare is approximately 3,000 to 4,000 yen, and the journey takes about 30 minutes.
③Car
If you are coming by car, such as a rental car, there is a paid parking lot.
Important Notes
①The number of buses varies between weekdays and weekends and holidays.
There may be fewer buses running on weekdays, so be sure to check the latest timetables in advance on the Hankyu Bus website or the Katsuo-ji Temple’s official website.
②The grounds are large and there are many slopes and stairs, so we recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes.
If you have a goal and you want to win, be sure to visit this place.
While Tokyo and Kyoto offer many famous temples, Katsuo-ji provides a uniquely spirited and visually striking experience that is hard to find elsewhere.
The sheer number of Daruma dolls is a sight to behold！
You might also want to get a kachi-mamori （victory amulet） as a souvenir to take some of that winning luck home with you！
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