Nestled quietly in the mountains of Minoh, Osaka, Katsuo-ji Temple is a popular Japanese temple known as the “Temple of Victory .” Thousands of red daruma dolls and seasonal Japanese flowers line the temple grounds, welcoming visitors throughout the year. Especially during the seasons of cherry blossoms and autumn foliage, the vibrant scenery captivates both Japanese visitors and international travelers.
This article provides clear travel guidance on how to reach Katsuo-ji Temple in Osaka, highlights its main attractions, and offers helpful tips for your visit. Whether you are a first-time visitor to Japan or traveling solo, you can enjoy your time here with confidence.
We aim to ease any concerns before your trip and offer insights to make your Osaka journey truly memorable.
Contents
Katsuo-ji Temple Access Guide for First-time Visitors
Check the latest weather forecast before your visit: [weathernews ]
By Train
Namba Station
Take the Osaka Metro Midosuji Line to “Minoh-Kayano Station” (about 40 minutes)
Continue with the common route below
Total travel time: about 1 hour
Shin-Osaka Station
Take the Osaka Metro Midosuji Line to “Minoh-Kayano Station” (about 20 minutes)
Continue with the common route below
Total travel time: about 40 minutes
Common Route
From Minoh-Kayano Station, take the Hankyu Bus bound for “Katsuo-ji Temple” (about 20 minutes)
This is a direct service to the temple
One Point Advice
Visitor Information｜Hours & Admission
Admission: Adults (high school and older) 500 yen, Children (elementary & junior high) 400 yen, Preschoolers 100 yen, Free for ages 2 and under
Hours: Weekdays & holidays 8:00–17:00 (last entry 16:30), Saturdays 8:00–18:00 (last entry 17:30)
Closed: Open daily
Light-up days: Extended hours until 20:30 (last entry 20:00)
Katsuo-ji Temple Official Website
Katsuo-ji Temple Highlights & Itinerary
Main Hall｜Victory Prayer Center
Located at the heart of the temple grounds, the Main Hall is the symbolic core of Katsuo-ji. Many visitors come to pray for victory and fortune , and the hall’s atmosphere carries a solemn, powerful presence. The intricate details of the ceiling and pillars convey centuries of history. Even first-time visitors will feel a sense of reverence here.
Duration: 20–30 minutes
Admission: Included in temple entry
Daruma Shelves｜Rows of Red Daruma
One of Katsuo-ji’s most distinctive features is the countless daruma dolls placed throughout the grounds. Visitors dedicate these dolls with their wishes , creating a striking sight of shelves and stone steps filled with red figures. Walking among the daruma dolls, many visitors feel encouraged in their efforts and challenges. This is also a favorite photo spot.
Duration: 15–20 minutes
Admission: Separate donation for daruma dolls (check official information)
Seasonal Gardens｜Nature and Tranquility
The temple’s gardens showcase Japanese seasonal beauty throughout the year—cherry blossoms in spring, hydrangeas in early summer, and brilliant autumn leaves. Ponds, vermilion bridges, and seasonal flowers together create scenes that leave lasting impressions. The autumn light-up event offers a magical view, completely different from the daytime.
Duration: 30–40 minutes
Admission: Included in temple entry
Katsuo-ji Temple｜Nearby & Next-day Trips
Minoh Waterfall｜Scenic Hike from Temple
About a 30-minute walk from the temple, Minoh Waterfall in Minoh Quasi-National Park is listed among Japan’s Top 100 Waterfalls . The 33-meter waterfall drop, surrounded by Japanese forest scenery , is stunning in every season. Combining temple prayers with a nature walk provides a refreshing and restorative experience.Minoh Park Official Website
Expo ’70 Park｜Tower of the Sun & Culture
From Minoh-Kayano Station, take the Osaka Monorail to “Banpaku-Kinen-Koen Station” (about 15 minutes including transfers). From the station, it is a short walk to the park entrance.Tower of the Sun , it also features a Japanese Garden and cultural spaces, with seasonal flower events to enjoy. Visiting after Katsuo-ji adds both cultural enrichment and the refreshing atmosphere of a large urban park.Expo ’70 Commemorative Park Official Website
Kyoto Arashiyama｜Nature & Culture
About 90 minutes by train from Katsuo-ji, Arashiyama in Kyoto offers iconic sights such as Togetsu-kyo Bridge and the Bamboo Grove . After the quiet time at Katsuo-ji, exploring Arashiyama provides a richer flow to your journey. Kyoto’s cuisine and traditional crafts also make it a perfect next-day destination.
Katsuo-ji Temple｜Visitor Q&A
Can hydrangeas be enjoyed at the temple?
Yes, from June to July hydrangeas color the temple grounds beautifully, even on rainy days.
When is the best season for cherry blossoms and autumn leaves?
Cherry blossoms peak in late March to early April, while autumn leaves are at their best from mid-November to early December.
Is there a unique custom at the temple?
Yes, visitors dedicate daruma dolls with their wishes, creating the striking sight of rows of red figures throughout the grounds.
Is the temple suitable for families and seniors?
While there are slopes and stairs, rest areas and facilities are available, making it accessible with a slower pace.
Is photography allowed inside the grounds?
Photography is allowed in most areas, but please be respectful in prayer spaces.
Katsuo-ji Temple｜Travel Summary & Next Steps
Katsuo-ji Temple offers a unique blend of victory prayers and Japanese seasonal landscapes. Cherry blossoms, hydrangeas, and autumn leaves bring different charms throughout the year, while the daruma dolls and special events enrich every visit.
With convenient access from central Osaka, it is an ideal spot even for first-time travelers. The temple’s iconic scenery and seasonal highlights will leave a lasting impression.
Next, why not continue your journey to Minoh Waterfall and experience the natural beauty of northern Osaka?
