- 1 Introduction – For Those Who Feel Like Looking Up at the Stars
- 2 What is Hoshida Myouken-gu? A Sacred Place Where Star Worship Meets Buddhism
- 3 Shrine Walkthrough – From the Approach to the Seven Stars
- 4 Blessings and Star Worship – Guardian Stars and Hagunsei
- 5 Access & Visiting Tips (with Google Map)
- 6 FAQ
- 7 Final Thoughts – A Moment With the Star That Changes Your Fate
Introduction – For Those Who Feel Like Looking Up at the Stars
“Nothing seems to be going right lately…” “I want to change the flow of my life.”
If that’s how you feel, Hoshida Myouken-gu in Katano City, Osaka, may be the shrine that gently pushes your back as if you’re placing a wish upon a star.
Dedicated to the Big Dipper, this lesser-known yet powerful spiritual spot is especially noted for one of its stars: Hagunsei, a celestial force believed to help cut bad ties and encourage fresh starts.
In this article, we’ll guide you through a real-life field visit to the shrine, showcasing its spiritual benefits, star-based worship practices, access route, and more.
What is Hoshida Myouken-gu? A Sacred Place Where Star Worship Meets Buddhism
Located in Osaka’s Katano City, Hoshida Myouken-gu is a shrine rooted in Myouken belief—the ancient worship of Polaris and the Big Dipper.
It preserves the syncretism of Shinto and Buddhism: while the Shinto deity enshrined is Ame-no-Minakanushi, the Buddhist counterpart is Myouken Bosatsu.
The shrine’s most unique feature is the Shichiseizuka (Seven Star Mounds) placed throughout the grounds, each representing one of the Big Dipper stars. Visitors are encouraged to find and pray to their own guardian star based on birth year and zodiac sign.
The most spiritually potent of them all is Hagunsei, said to bring success in new endeavors and help change one’s fortune—hence its nickname, “The Star That Resets Your Destiny.”
Shrine Walkthrough – From the Approach to the Seven Stars
■ Origins and Historical Significance
Hoshida Myouken-gu traces its roots back to the Heian period (794–1185). The worship of Polaris and the Big Dipper was considered a form of state protection and personal spiritual alignment, spreading throughout Japan through Onmyoudou and esoteric Buddhism.
The shrine is built on what was once called “Mount Myouken,” a sacred ridge used to observe the heavens. Even the name “Hoshida” (meaning “star field”) reflects this heritage, and remnants of its star legends remain in the area.
■ Temizuya and Stone Steps – Purifying Your Body and Mind
Past the stone-paved approach lies a traditional temizuya (purification basin). Once you’ve cleansed your hands and mouth, prepare to climb the shrine’s iconic 121 steps.
Each step draws you closer to spiritual alignment, physically and mentally preparing you for the encounter ahead.
■ Shichiseizuka – Praying to the Seven Stars
Dotting the hillside and grounds are seven small mounds, each representing a star from the Big Dipper.
In our visit, we found six of the seven: Hagunsei, Tonrousei, Renteisei, Rokuzonsei, Bunkyokusei, and Bugokusei. Only Komonsei was under repair and not accessible as of May 2025.
Unlike miniature shrines, these sites feature small stone Buddhas and explanatory signs instead.
- Hagunsei: The star that breaks barriers and guides transformation
- Tonrousei: The star of ambition and desire
- Renteisei: The star of justice and principle
- Rokuzonsei: The star of wealth and virtue
- Bunkyokusei: The star of wisdom and learning
- Bugokusei: The star of courage and action
- Komonsei: Currently inaccessible (under restoration)
Among these, Hagunsei holds special significance. Secluded and framed by trees, this site emanates a quiet gravity. Praying here felt like entering a moment of true self-reflection.
■ Panoramic View and Hidden Treasures Behind the Main Hall
Climbing the stairs leads to a sweeping view of Osaka’s skyline—a reward for your spiritual and physical effort.
Behind the main hall are lesser-known but meaningful spots:
- Orihime Stone: A sacred rock tied to Tanabata legend and Myouken belief
- Toryuu Waterfall: A small cascade linked to meteor legends and Kobo Daishi
- Parent-and-Child Cedars: Two giant trees standing side by side, representing family bonds
Blessings and Star Worship – Guardian Stars and Hagunsei
Visitors are encouraged to determine their guardian star by referring to a signboard charting zodiac and birth years. Each star governs different blessings and energies.
While the guardian star is important, Hagunsei is considered an “extraordinary star”—one to be visited during major life transitions like job changes, endings, or new beginnings.
Some worshippers first pray to their guardian star, then close with a prayer to Hagunsei for cosmic support in forging a new path.
■ What Is Hagunsei?
Hagunsei is the seventh star of the Big Dipper, known in Chinese astronomy as Yaoguang, and in Japanese folklore as Kensaki-boshi (“Sword-Tip Star”).
While traditional Onmyoudou deemed its direction as unlucky, it was revered by Buddhist star worshippers as a star that could cut through misfortune and reset one’s destiny.
Historically, samurai revered Hagunsei for its power in battle and victory. Today, it’s sought by anyone needing strength for a fresh start.
Access & Visiting Tips (with Google Map)
■ Closest Station: JR Hoshida Station (~15 mins walk)
Walk south from Hoshida Station through a quiet residential area. Follow the signs along the gentle slope to arrive without getting lost.
📍 Search “Hoshida Myouken-gu” in Google Maps for the walking route. 🅿️ On-site parking available (limited spots)
FAQ
Q: Can I receive a goshuin (shrine stamp)?
→ Yes. Standard and limited-time goshuin are available.
Q: When is it crowded?
→ Weekends and during seasonal events like Setsubun or Tanabata.
Q: Can I go by car?
→ Yes. Free parking is available (limited capacity).
Final Thoughts – A Moment With the Star That Changes Your Fate
In moments when you feel stuck or uncertain, Hagunsei silently awaits you in the quiet woods of Hoshida Myouken-gu.
Walking the approach, praying to your star, and meeting the Star of Transformation—it all becomes a symbolic journey inward.
Sometimes, a single star-shaped step is all it takes to start changing your path.
