Osu Kannon Temple

5 of 35 in attractions in Nagoya

Osu Kannon (大須観音, Ōsu Kannon), a well-known Buddhist temple in central Nagoya, dates back to the Kamakura Period (1192-1333). Originally located in Gifu Prefecture, it was relocated to its current site in 1612 by Tokugawa Ieyasu after repeated flooding damaged the original temple. The temple is home to a wooden statue of Kannon, the goddess of mercy, carved by Kobo Daishi, a significant figure in Japanese Buddhism. Below the main hall, the Shinpukuji Library holds over 15,000 historical texts, including the oldest copy of Japan's Kojiki chronicle.

On the 18th and 28th of each month, a flea market takes place at the temple with around 60 stalls. Just next door, the Osu Shopping Arcade offers a bustling shopping experience, with over 400 shops specializing in electronics, anime, J-pop, and cosplay, making it a favorite spot for both traditional and modern enthusiasts.

Find Nearby →
Tours (99+)
Hotels (99+)

Provided through partner sites

Hours and Fees

Osu Kannon Temple

Osu Shopping Arcade

Getting there

Google Maps

Osu Kannon Temple is just a short walk from Osu Kannon Station on the Tsurumai Subway Line. From Nagoya Station, take the Higashiyama Subway Line and transfer to the Tsurumai Line at Fushimi Station. The trip takes about 10 minutes and costs 210 yen.

Alternatively, you can walk 5-10 minutes from Kamimaezu Station on the Tsurumai and Meijo Subway Lines, passing through the shopping arcade next to the temple.