Katsuo-ji Temple Osaka Guide: The Daruma Temple People Visit Before Exams and Big Life Moments
A peaceful mountain escape in Osaka where visitors come to commit to their goals before challenges ahead
Right before taking my Japanese medical license exam in February, I went somewhere very specific.
Not for sightseeing. Not for photos.
I went because I wanted to pass.
That place was Katsuo-ji Temple, a temple in the mountains of Osaka.
In Japanese, katsu (勝) means “to win,” and Katsuo-ji has long been known as a place people visit before important moments — exams, competitions, career changes, health challenges.
To be honest, my New Year didn’t feel like a new beginning at all.
That exam was heavy. My head was full.
So I went to Katsuo-ji quietly and made a promise to myself to face the exam properly.
Why People Visit Katsuo-ji Before Exams and Big Moments
Katsuo-ji was founded in the 8th century and has been called a “temple of victory” for centuries.
Warriors once came here before battles.
Today, people come here before:
Entrance exams
Job interviews and career decisions
Business challenges
Sports competitions
It’s not about wishing for luck without effort.
Katsuo-ji is about making a personal commitment to do your best — even when you’re scared.
That’s why this place feels meaningful for travelers too.
If you’re visiting Osaka and have something important coming up in your life, this is a powerful stop to add to your Japan trip.
Daruma Everywhere — And What They Mean
Katsuo-ji is famous for its Daruma dolls.
Daruma represent persistence and not giving up on yourself.
Here, Daruma are not “magic wish dolls.”
When you write your goal and fill in one eye, you’re making a promise to yourself to face your weakness and not run away.
I did a Daruma-Mikuji, where you choose a Daruma while focusing on one question.
Inside is guidance based on old philosophy, not simple “good luck / bad luck.”
After reading mine, I placed my Daruma on the temple grounds.
They’re everywhere — on rocks, near small altars, quietly watching people walk by.
It’s strangely comforting to see how many people are trying hard at something.
Omamori, Small Comforts, and Daruma Snacks
I also bought an omamori (protective charm) for my exam.
I keep it in my bag now — not because I think it changes results, but because it reminds me of the promise I made to myself that day.
And yes, I ate Daruma-shaped baby castella.
It sounds small, but moments like this make Japanese temples feel warm and human — serious wishes mixed with gentle joy.
If you’re in Osaka and you or someone you love has an exam coming up, I really recommend visiting Katsuo-ji.
And please… wish me luck for passing the exam too! I truly hope I passed.
A Place to Visit When You Want to Win — Without Rushing Yourself
Katsuo-ji doesn’t promise miracles.
It gives you a moment to slow down before something important.
If you’re traveling in Osaka and facing an exam, interview, or big life decision,
this temple is a quiet place to remind yourself why you’re trying so hard in the first place.
Coming Next for Paid Subscribers…
In the coming newsletter, I’ll share a practical step-by-step guide:
How to get to Katsuo-ji easily from central Osaka
What to eat before you go at Minoh Q’s Mall near Kayano Station (my recommended place to eat before Katsuo-ji)
How to write your wish properly on a big Daruma
Real tips for visiting Katsuo-ji without stress
How to combine Katsuo-ji with nearby sightseeing
If today’s story helped you, I’d love for you to read my next practical guide too!
Information for visiting Katsuo-ji
Location: Katsuo-ji Temple, Minoo, Osaka
Opening Hours:
Weekdays: 8:00–17:00
Saturdays: 8:00–18:00
Sundays & holidays: 8:00–17:00
Admission Fee:
Adults: 500 yen
Children: 400 yen
Access: Subway + bus from central Osaka (Details in the next paid post)
Google Maps: Search “Katsuo-ji Temple”