Mizukake Fudo-san

Name: Hozenji Temple

Address: 1-2-16 Namba, Chuo-ku, Osaka City

Affectionately referred to as “Mizukake Fudo-san” by the locals of Osaka, the Mizukake Fudo Myo-o located in Hozenji Temple is a staple tourist attraction in Hozenji Yokocho. It is believed that wishes come true when you pray while pouring water over this particular Fudo Myo-o, a sight often seen by visitors.
Over the years, as worshippers have continued to pour water and pray, the Fudo Myo-o has become covered in green moss. When you visit, make sure to pour water and offer a prayer. It is believed to bring benefits not only for matchmaking and business prosperity but also for those in the water-related businesses due to the act of pouring water.

Wasabi

Address: 1-1-17 Namba, Chuo-ku, Osaka City

In Hozenji Yokocho, the recommended kushikatsu restaurant is Wasabi, known for its creative kushikatsu dishes. This establishment, with its modern ambiance, has earned a Michelin star. The interior features about ten seats at a counter, exuding an atmosphere akin to a high-end Japanese restaurant, yet it is a celebrated name in kushikatsu dining.
The owner, who once worked at Osaka’s most popular French restaurant, crafts exquisite creative kushikatsu dishes. You can enjoy the best of seasonal seafood and mountain delicacies in kushikatsu form. While it might not be priced for daily visits, it’s definitely worth experiencing at least once. Be sure to make a reservation when you plan to visit.

喝鈍（Katsudon）

Address: 1-1-18 Namba, Chuo-ku, Osaka City

If you’re looking to have lunch in Hozenji Yokocho, why not try the long-established katsudon specialty shop, Katsudon? While the storefront may be narrow and easy to overlook, you can spot it by the “Katsudon” banner hanging in front. The interior exudes a Showa-era retro vibe, offering a nostalgic atmosphere.
At Katsudon, the dish is served as a katsu simmered with egg in a pan, separate from the rice, allowing diners to choose whether to place the katsu on the rice or not. Enjoy it however you prefer. Either way, the sweetly seasoned, fluffy egg-coated, freshly fried juicy katsu is delicious. Note that the restaurant, with about ten counter seats, can get crowded.

夫婦善哉（Meotozenzai）

Address: 1-2-10 Namba, Chuo-ku, Osaka City

When it comes to recommended sweets in Hozenji Yokocho, Meoto Zenzai, established in 1883 (Meiji 16), is a must-try. When you order a single serving, the zenzai (sweet red bean soup) is served in two bowls. This tradition stems from the appearance that a serving seems more generous when divided into two bowls, even if it’s a single serving.
The traditional serving of Meoto Zenzai, with a mochi ball in each of the two bowls, offers a comforting warmth, a smooth texture, and just the right amount of sweetness—truly a delicacy. Furthermore, true to its name, which translates to “Couple’s Zenzai,” it’s said to bring harmony to couples who eat it together and foster love between those drawn to each other, making it a popular choice for its auspicious implications.

美津の（Mizuno）

Address: 1-4-15 Dotonbori, Chuo-ku, Osaka City

In the bustling Dotonbori area of Osaka, known as a fiercely competitive battleground for okonomiyaki, the culture of flour-based dishes is well-established. Just inside the arcade, there is a historic shop that has been operating since 1945, now in its third generation of ownership. This shop, “Mitsu no,” is so popular that it often has a queue of customers waiting to get in. It offers a variety of signature dishes, including the classic “Mitsu no Yaki,” “Yamaimo Yaki” (yam yaki), and “Modan Yaki” (modern yaki), among others.