Hozen-ji Temple, Osaka - Japanese urban oasis in a dense city
Japan's unique offering of small public amenity space to give pause, reflection in a dense city
The Japanese culture never fails to amaze and delight me during my travels. One striking example is the absence of public rubbish bins on the streets, yet there is minimal littering. This is because it is ingrained in their culture to carry their trash with them and dispose of it at home. While littering does occur, it is rare to see discarded drink cartons, food packaging, or any rubbish on the streets due to the societal norm against eating and drinking in public spaces.
The prevalence of shrines and temples, both large and small, throughout Japan is another significant cultural difference. These sacred sites can be found in residential neighbourhoods, hidden down narrow streets, or even nestled among modern city buildings.
During my second evening in Osaka, I stayed in the vibrant Namba neighbourhood to the south of the city. Dotonbori, a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, is known for its food and entertainment offerings. On my way there, I stumbled upon Hozenji Yokocho, a charming area with narrow stone-paved alleyways lined with traditional restaurants, cafes, and food stalls. The picturesque streets provided ample opportunities for me to capture the unique atmosphere and diverse culinary scene with my camera.
While exploring the urban landscape, I unexpectedly came across Hozen-ji Temple, a hidden gem amidst the bustling streets. The moment I stepped inside, the atmosphere shifted dramatically, offering a peaceful retreat from the city's chaos.
The temple, though small in size, was meticulously maintained and clearly cherished by the local community. Its location within the vibrant urban environment, adorned with glowing yellow lanterns against the backdrop of the Osaka sky, created a striking contrast. It reminded me of the quiet backstreets of Soho, a sanctuary away from the tourist crowds.
As I set up my camera to capture the scene, I observed a Japanese woman tending to the temple with care, embodying a sense of duty and reverence. Nearby, a group of businessmen, dressed in black suits, respectfully paid their respects after a night of drinking and socialising. Their actions were a testament to the temple's significance in the community.
Exploring the cultural nuances of a city often requires venturing off the beaten path, away from the main tourist areas. It is only by immersing oneself in the local culture that one can truly appreciate and understand the unique experiences a city has to offer.
Have you ever stumbled upon any local cultural gems while traveling abroad? How do these experiences compare to the fascinating contrasts found in Japan, where the juxtaposition of old and new is a constant theme?
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wonderful micro-sacred sites tucked in among the everyday streets and buildings. Remarkable!