When visiting temples or shrines in Japan, please remember that these are sacred places. Any behavior that shows disrespect — such as touching sacred objects, entering restricted areas, or making noise — can be seen as both culturally offensive and legally punishable under Japanese law (Article 188 of the Penal Code).
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The Great Buddha Hidden Among the Trees
Osu is usually known for street food, shopping, and crowds—but tucked away at its quiet edge is a surprisingly deep piece of Nagoya’s history: the hidden Great Buddha of Nanatsu-dera.
Nanatsu-dera is one of the region’s oldest temples, originally founded in 735 in present-day Ama City. In the early 1600s, during the Kiyosu Migration led by Tokugawa Ieyasu, the entire temple was moved to its current location in Osu. Today, it sits close to the lively shopping streets, yet feels worlds apart.
Inside the temple grounds stands a Great Buddha statue believed to have been cast in the late 1700s. At first glance, it looks calm and imposing—but a closer look reveals a dramatic history. The statue was destroyed in World War II during American air raids, and what you see today is a carefully restored version. You can spot a clear crack near the feet from the front, but the back makes the story even clearer: multiple repaired seams show how the pieces were joined together.
The Buddha is also surprisingly hard to find. It’s tucked between trees, almost hidden from view until you’re right next to it. Even the temple entrance itself faces a main road yet is easy to miss if you’re not paying attention—exactly the kind of “hidden gem” travelers love.
Next to the Buddha stands something unexpected: a Shinto torii gate, built in 1920 (大正九年 Taishō 9). Like the Buddha, it also shows cracks, suggesting it too was damaged in the 1945 air raids and later restored. Seeing a Buddhist statue and a Shinto torii side-by-side adds another layer to the unique atmosphere of this small corner of Osu.
While most visitors come to Osu for food and shopping, places like Nanatsu-dera reveal a completely different side of the neighborhood—one filled with history, resilience, and quiet beauty. Exploring beyond the main streets can be incredibly rewarding.
If you’re visiting Nagoya and want a break from the crowds, try searching out this hidden Great Buddha. The adventure of finding it is half the fun.
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