Tennōji-ku

Tennōji-ku is a densely built urban ward in southern Osaka featuring the Abeno Harukas tower and multiple railway stations that serve as major transport hubs. The area contains shopping centers, dining options, and public spaces that form a connected urban landscape.

The name comes from Shitennōji Temple, built in 593 under Prince Shōtoku and recognized as one of the first Buddhist temples sponsored by the Japanese government. This religious foundation shaped the area for centuries afterward.

The Shinsekai entertainment district showcases traditional Osaka food specialties and the Tsutenkaku Tower, a landmark that has shaped the skyline for generations. Walking through these streets, you see bright neon signs and small food stalls that reflect the area's long-standing character.

The area has four major transportation hubs, including JR Tennōji Station and Kintetsu Osaka Abenobashi Station, providing connections to Nara, Kansai Airport, and central Osaka. These stations make it easy to explore different parts of the region.

The Tennōji Zoo houses red pandas, lions, and penguins on spacious grounds near Tennōji Park. Founded in 1915, it ranks among Japan's older zoos and offers a quiet escape from the surrounding urban energy.