Hozenji Yokocho

“Hozenji Yokocho” is two stone-paved alleys in the grounds of Tenryuzan Hozenji Temple of the Jodo sect of Buddhism, and has been one of Japan’s most popular tourist attractions since the Meiji period (1868-1912). It started with some stalls for worshippers and grew into a gourmet street. The area was damaged by air raids during the Pacific War and neighborhood fires, but it has been restored thanks to the efforts of citizens.

It has two alleys, about 80 meters long and 3 meters wide, stretching from east to west. Despite its huge signboards and proximity to the bustling Dotonbori, it still has a calm and relaxing atmosphere, especially on rainy days when the wet pavements create an elegant atmosphere. There are many restaurants such as long-established Japanese restaurants, okonomiyaki restaurants, kushikatsu restaurants, and bars on both sides.

Mizukake Fudoson is enshrined on the west side of the temple. Many people come to pray to the statue in the morning and evening, and the air is thick with the aroma of incense. The statue is covered with green moss as visitors have been pouring water on it with their wishes.

Hozenji Yokocho has been the setting for many novels, movies, and songs, including Sakunosuke Oda’s novel “Meoto Zenzai”.