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Ohatsu Tenjin Shrine
Photo: Pixta

Ohatsu Tenjin Shrine

  • Attractions | Religious buildings and sites
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Time Out says

Ohatsu Tenjin, also known as Tsuyu no Tenjinja, is a 1,300-year-old shrine in the heart of Umeda. The sanctuary is the setting for the 18th-century bunraku (traditional Japanese puppet theatre) play ‘Sonezaki Shinju’ by Chikamatsu Monzaemon, which features a pair of star-crossed lovers who (spoiler alert) commit double suicide at the shrine. Despite their tragic fate, the shrine is now known for romance and attracts young couples praying for blessings in their relationships. Couples can write their wishes on a heart-shaped ema (wooden plaque) with an illustration of the lovers from the famous play.

Destroyed during the war in 1945 and restored in 1957, the shrine is a calm respite from the urban chaos of Umeda. For a change of pace, Ohatsu Tenji hosts a flea market on the first Friday of every month.

Details

Address
2-5-4 Sonezaki, Kita
Osaka
Transport:
Higashi-Umeda Station (Osaka Metro Tanimachi line); Kita-Shinchi Station (JR Tozai line); Osaka Station
Opening hours:
6am-11pm daily

What’s on

Ohatsu Tenjin Flea Market

Hidden among the high-rises of Umeda, Tsuyutenjin Shrine – affectionately known as Ohatsu Tenjin – hosts one of Osaka’s most charming flea markets on the first and third Friday of every month. The market is modest in size, but its convenient location makes it a must-visit for treasure hunters looking for something a bit more down-to-earth compared to the commercial bustle of central Osaka. On any given week there can be between 10 to 20 vendors set up beneath the shrine’s stone lanterns, offering a mix of antiques, pottery, retro and Showa-era goods. The atmosphere is quietly magical. The 1,300-year-old shrine, dedicated to the deities of love and good fortune, is best known for the tragic tale of Ohatsu and Tokubei – Japan’s own Romeo and Juliet. Today, couples visit to hang heart-shaped ema (wish plaques) and pray for lasting love before browsing the market’s retro curiosities.
  • Markets and fairs
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