Katsuo-ji Temple, located in the mountains of Minoo City, Osaka, is a powerful spiritual spot known as the “Temple of Winning.” The temple grounds are adorned with countless daruma dolls, which bring a sense of courage and hope to all who visit.
Highlights: Photogenic Daruma and Beautiful Nature
The main attraction at Katsuo-ji is the abundance of “Kachi Daruma” (winning daruma) throughout the temple grounds. The sight of so many daruma lined up is truly breathtaking. When a breeze blows, the smaller daruma sway in unison, creating a mystical and highly photogenic scene. These daruma are dedicated after a personal goal has been achieved, representing wishes for things like passing exams, business success, and recovery from illness.
Katsuo-ji is also famous for its stunning natural beauty. In autumn, it becomes one of the most popular koyo (autumn foliage) spots in the Kansai region, where the fiery red and yellow leaves create a magnificent sight.
Getting to Katsuo-ji: Taxis Are Highly Recommended!
Katsuo-ji is located in a mountainous area, and access via public transportation can be complicated. Since the bus route requires a transfer, a taxi is definitely the most convenient option, especially for first-time visitors.
By Taxi
A taxi offers a direct, hassle-free journey from major stations to the temple.
| Starting Location | Travel Time | Fare (JPY) | Fare (USD) |
| Central Osaka | Approx. 45–60 min | 8,000–10,000円 | Approx. $54.14–$67.68 |
| Shin-Osaka Station | Approx. 35–45 min | 6,000–8,000円 | Approx. $40.61–$54.14 |
| Senri-Chuo Station | Approx. 20 min | 3,000円 | Approx. $20.30 |
*Based on an exchange rate of $1 = approx. 147.8 JPY (as of September 19, 2025).
By Train and Bus
If you choose to take the bus, please note that the route changed on April 20, 2025, and now requires a transfer at Minoo-Kayano Station.
1.From a Major Station to Senri-Chuo Station
Senri-Chuo Station is the main transfer point for the bus.
| Starting Station | Route | Travel Time | Fare (JPY) | Fare (USD)* |
| Osaka Station | Osaka Metro Midosuji Line (from Umeda | Approx. 25 min | 380円 | Approx. $2.57 |
| Shin-Osaka Station | Midosuji Line | Approx. 13 min | 290円 | Approx. $1.96 |
| Namba Station | Midosuji Line | Approx. 25 min | 380円 | Approx. $2.57 |
| Tennoji Station | Midosuji Line | Approx. 30 min | 420円 | Approx. $2.84 |
2.From Senri-Chuo Station to Minoo-Kayano Station
- Getting to the Bus Stop: Senri-Chuo Station is underground, so you’ll need to go to the bus terminal on the ground level. Exit the train ticket gate and follow signs that say “地上へ” (to the ground floor) and take the escalator up.
- Take the bus bound for Minoo-Kayano Station.
- Fare: 250円 (approx. $1.69)
3.From Minoo-Kayano Station to Katsuo-ji
The photo above is the timetable from Minoh Kayano Station to Katsuoji Temple. Unfortunately, there was no English translation.
- Getting to the Bus Stop: When you get off the bus at Minoo-Kayano Station, the bus terminal is integrated with the train station. Walk towards the station building (the central part of the rotary), and you’ll find the bus stop for Katsuo-ji on the opposite side.
- How to Ride:
- Board the bus from the rear door.
- When you get on, take a “seiriken” (numbered ticket) from the machine.
- When you get off, pay the fare that is displayed on the screen at the front of the bus and exit from the front door.
- Fare: 800円 (approx. $5.41)
- Travel Time: Approx. 25 min
The total travel time, including transfers, is approximately 1 hour.
Here is the website for how to ride the bus. English information is available.
Basic Katsuo-ji Information
- Official Website: https://katsuo-ji-temple.or.jp/ (The website is also available in English.)
- Admission Fee:
- Adults (High school age and up): 500円 (approx. $3.38)
- Children (Elementary and junior high): 400円 (approx. $2.71)
- Preschoolers (ages 3 and up): 100円 (approx. $0.68)
- Hours:
- Weekdays: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Saturdays: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Sundays & Holidays: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
We hope you have a wonderful time and that your visit to Katsuo-ji brings you great fortune!
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