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Temples #5 in Yamatotakada, Nara

Eifuku-ji

4.3 · 690 reviews
A quiet place for historical contemplation
Eifuku-ji, 2146 Taishi, Minamikawachi District, Osaka 583-0995, Japan
Interesting facts
1

The site is designated as a National Historic Site of Japan.

2

It is commonly referred to as the 'Shinaga no Haka' or the Tomb of Prince Shotoku.

3

The temple follows the Jodo-shu (Pure Land) sect of Buddhism.

4

The triple tomb arrangement is structurally unique, representing the three royal figures buried there.

5

Prince Shotoku is credited with drafting the Seventeen-Article Constitution, which is commemorated within the temple grounds.

Overview

Eifuku-ji, located in the Taishi district of Osaka, serves as the final resting place for Prince Shotoku, a pivotal figure in the establishment of Japanese Buddhism and the state. The temple is officially recognized as the Eifuku-ji Goryo, or the imperial mausoleum for the Prince, his mother Empress Anahobe no Hashihito, and his consort Kashiwade no Oiratsume. The site contains a three-tiered earthen burial mound known as the 'San-shin' or 'Three Tombs'. It functions as Temple No. 16 on the Shin-Saigoku Pilgrimage route. The grounds feature a Zen-style layout integrated into the hillside of the Minamikawachi region. Visitors can view the memorial hall, which honors the Prince's historical contributions to Japanese governance and religious structure.

Photo spot

The view of the main gate framed by the surrounding forest canopy.

Insider tips

Walk the perimeter of the burial mounds to appreciate the scale of the ancient tumuli.

Wear comfortable walking shoes as the grounds include slopes and uneven stone paths.

Check the official website for scheduled memorial services that may restrict access to certain areas.

What to avoid

Do not climb on or touch the stone burial markers or historical monuments.

Etiquette

Maintain a quiet demeanor; remove shoes before entering temple buildings; bow slightly when entering the gate.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
1-1.5 hours
Best time to visit
Early spring, specifically late March, to view the cherry blossoms across the temple landscape.
Address
Eifuku-ji, 2146 Taishi, Minamikawachi District, Osaka 583-0995, Japan
34.519, 135.639
Get directions
Details
Key historical figurePrince Shotoku
Burial siteSan-shin (Three-tiered burial mound)

Frequently asked

Plan for about 1-1.5 hours to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Early spring, specifically late March, to view the cherry blossoms across the temple landscape..

The view of the main gate framed by the surrounding forest canopy.

Close by you'll find Osaka Prefectural Chikatsu Asuka Museum, 太子・和みの広場, Saiho-in.