The Fudo Myoo statue was originally placed in the temple in 1637.
The tradition of pouring water over the statue began when a woman poured water on it while praying for a wish, leading others to follow suit.
Hozenji Yokocho, the alley housing the temple, is named after the temple itself.
The statue is one of five statues in the temple complex, though the Fudo Myoo is the only one covered in moss.
The temple grounds were rebuilt after being incinerated during the World War II Osaka air raids.
Hozen-ji is a compact Buddhist temple nestled in the Namba district, famous for its Fudo Myoo statue entirely enveloped in thick, green moss. Visitors pour water over the statue as an act of prayer, a ritual that has contributed to the thick vegetation growth over time. The temple survived the extensive air raids of 1945, which destroyed much of the surrounding Namba area. It serves as a stark, quiet contrast to the neon-lit, high-energy entertainment district of Dotonbori. The site includes a small prayer hall and is located within the narrow, stone-paved Hozenji Yokocho alleyway. The moss-covered statue, known as Mizukake Fudo, is the central focus of the temple grounds.
Directly in front of the Mizukake Fudo statue from the low wooden viewing platform.
Visit at night when the stone-paved alleyway is illuminated by traditional red paper lanterns.
Bring a small coin to offer at the altar before pouring water on the statue.
Respect the ongoing rituals as this remains a functioning site of active worship.
Do not treat the temple as a mere photo backdrop; remember it is an active religious space where locals are praying.
Maintain silence, do not touch the statue with hands, and follow the water-pouring ritual respectfully.
