Founded during the Heian period, Ninnaji has more than 1,000 years of history. The temple traditionally has a strong connection to the Japanese Imperial Family, with many of the head priests over the centuries being the sons of reigning emperors.

The main hall is recognized as a National Treasure of Japan, while most of the other buildings—including the five-story pagoda—are recognized as Important Cultural Properties.

The grounds of the temple are known for their meticulously raked Zen gardens.

Suggested Activity
Go Bar Hopping in Osaka [With Full Dinner]
Spend an evening exploring the bars in Osaka's popular nightlife district of Namba. Sample tasty Japanese pub-style food, and wash it down with your choice of drinks, from sake to umeshu and beer — all in the company of a knowledgeable guide!

Admission for the gardens and palace are ¥500 for adults, with concessions for high school, junior high school and elementary school aged children. Entry to the Reiho-kan Museum is an additional ¥500.