Katsuō-ji facts for kids
Katsuō-ji, also known as Katsuo-dera, is a famous Buddhist temple in Minō, Japan. It sits in the beautiful mountains of northern Osaka Prefecture. This temple is one of many important Buddhist sites that people visit on a special journey called a pilgrimage in the Kansai region. Katsuō-ji is the 23rd stop on the Kansai Kannon Pilgrimage.
Contents
History of Katsuō-ji Temple
The story of Katsuō-ji began a long time ago, late in the Nara period. Two priests, Zenchū and Zensan, were the first to settle at this spot. The original temple, called Miroku-ji, was built in the year 765 CE. Later, a Japanese ruler named Emperor Seiwa gave the temple its current name, "Katsuō-ji". Sadly, the temple was burned down in 1184 CE. But don't worry, it was rebuilt! The main hall and the temple gate you see today were put back together by Hideyori Toyotomi.
The Meaning of "Katsu" and Daruma Dolls
The word "katsu" in the temple's name means "winning" or "victory". Because of this, many people visit Katsuō-ji hoping to get "winner's luck" in their lives. They often buy special daruma dolls when they visit. These dolls are round, hollow figures that represent good luck and perseverance.
People make a wish and then paint one eye of the daruma doll. If their wish comes true, they often bring the daruma doll back to the temple. You can see many daruma dolls left all over the temple grounds, showing how many wishes have been fulfilled! It's a unique and interesting tradition.
Images for kids
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A Kannon statue and a tahōtō pagoda on the grounds of Katsuō-ji.
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Many Daruma dolls left at Katsuō-ji by visitors.
See also
In Spanish: Katsuō-ji para niños
