Written by Jane Pipkin
Searching for victory? Well, this is the place to go. Founded in the 8th century, Katsuo-ji Temple is known to be a powerspot for those seeking luck in life.
The temple is also home to a distinct type of daruma known as kachi daruma (victory daruma). This daruma differs from others, as drawing the first eye actually represents self-commitment rather than simply fulfilling a wish. You will see these daruma, as well as Daruma-Mikuji (daruma-shaped fortune slips), all around the temple grounds.
Beautiful in all seasons, the temple really becomes a site to see during spring and autumn, when the bright red daruma contrast with pinks, reds, and oranges.
Admission is ¥500 for adults and ¥400 for junior-high and elementary school students. Preschoolers can go in for ¥300 and those under 3 can enter for free. Save the hassle and get an admission ticket in advance.
How to get there
It takes around a hour to get to the temple from Umeda Station. First, jump on the Midōsuji Line train (the local for Minoh-Kayano). Then, at Minoh-Kayano Station take the Hokusetsu Cemetery Line 30 bus straight to Katsuoji. The overall journey costs ¥1,280.
Elementary School students: ¥400
- 3.1 km from Saito-nishi Station Osaka Monorail Saito Line
