Hozenji Temple

Hozenji Yokocho is a narrow cobblestone alley just steps from Dotonbori's neon chaos, lined with red lanterns and intimate kappo restaurants. At the far end, a moss-covered statue of Fudo Myo-o receives a steady stream of worshippers who ladle spring water over it before praying for business success. The alley's western entrance sign, in calligraphy by comic actor Fujiyama Kanbi, is missing a stroke in the character for good. Locals offer various explanations, but the real reason has been lost to history.