Located in the scenic Saga district of Kyoto, Daikaku-ji Temple and Osawa Pond are known among One Piece fans as the “Sacred Land of Wano Country.” The reflection of the sky and mountains upon the still waters creates an atmosphere that strongly evokes “Habu Port” from the story, leaving visitors captivated by its tranquil beauty.
About Daikaku-ji Temple
Daikaku-ji is a prestigious temple situated in Saga, Ukyo Ward, Kyoto. It was originally founded in the early Heian period when Emperor Saga converted his imperial villa, the Saga-in, into a Buddhist temple. Throughout history, it has been cherished by the imperial family and nobles alike, preserving traditional Shoin-style architecture and exquisite garden aesthetics.
Visitors can admire the beauty of all four seasons—the cherry blossoms of spring, the fiery leaves of autumn, and the tranquil snowscapes of winter. At the northern edge of the temple grounds lies Osawa Pond, a peaceful and historic body of water often said to embody Heian-era garden culture. Its tranquil surface and elegant reflection of the sky have led many to draw parallels with the anime’s Wano Country.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Founded | Heian Period (876 AD) by Emperor Saga |
| Sect | Shingon Buddhism, Daikaku-ji branch |
| Other Name | Saga Imperial Palace, Osawa-no-Miya |
| Cultural Assets | Karamon Gate, Heart Sutra Hall, Osawa Pond |
Thus, Daikaku-ji stands as both a symbol of Japan’s historical artistry and a site where ancient culture naturally connects with modern storytelling.
Why Osawa Pond Is Compared to “Habu Port”
Osawa Pond, constructed about 1,200 years ago, is considered Japan’s oldest artificial forest pond. Surrounded by small islands and a fishing pavilion, it once served as a site of boat festivals enjoyed by Heian aristocrats. Its still waters and mountainous backdrop bear a striking resemblance to Habu Port in the Wano Country arc of One Piece.
| Comparison | Osawa Pond | Habu Port |
|---|---|---|
| Scenery | Reflections of mountains and trees create a dreamlike view | A serene harbor blending sea and nature |
| Atmosphere | Calm, elegant, and timeless | Peaceful port life with traditional charm |
| Colors | Golden hues at sunset across the pond | Crimson and gold tones in the sunset sky |
Visitors often remark, “This view is Wano Country itself.” Especially at dusk, the golden reflection across the water makes it easy to imagine standing within the anime’s world.
“Kyoto Mugiwara Road” and Eiichiro Oda’s Autograph
In 2017, the “Kyoto Mugiwara Road” event brought together Kyoto’s historical heritage and the world of One Piece. Major landmarks such as Daikaku-ji, Kiyomizu-dera, and To-ji participated, featuring life-sized character panels and interactive exhibits.
Daikaku-ji played a central role in this event due to its harmony between Japanese tradition and the anime’s setting. After the event, Eiichiro Oda’s autograph was donated and remains on display within the temple, attracting countless fans who come to see it firsthand.
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Year | 2017 |
| Event | Kyoto Mugiwara Road |
| Content | Character displays across Kyoto landmarks |
| Highlight at Daikaku-ji | Wano-themed exhibits and Oda’s autograph |
Oda’s autograph has become a treasured artifact at Daikaku-ji—an enduring symbol of the bridge between art, story, and spirituality.
The Appeal of Daikaku-ji as a Pilgrimage Site
Daikaku-ji offers a unique harmony between history, nature, and imagination. As you stroll along its pathways, the gentle breeze and rippling water create an immersive connection to the anime’s scenes. Every sound and reflection seems to mirror the essence of Wano Country.
| Time of Day | Highlight | Atmosphere |
|---|---|---|
| Early Morning | Mist enveloping the pond | Sacred and serene |
| Sunset | Golden light shimmering across the water | Deeply reminiscent of Habu Port |
| Night (Special Viewing) | Lanterns illuminating the pond | Ethereal and otherworldly ambiance |
The sunset hour is especially revered among fans as the moment when the “real-life Habu Port” comes alive.
Harmony Between Daikaku-ji and the Wano Country Arc
The Wano Country arc in One Piece is rich with traditional Japanese aesthetics—wooden ships, tiled roofs, and a way of life rooted in harmony with nature. Similarly, Daikaku-ji’s architecture and landscape reflect these same values, creating a profound resonance between fiction and reality.
| Element | Daikaku-ji | Wano Country Arc |
|---|---|---|
| Architecture | Shoin-style wooden structures | Traditional Japanese port town design |
| Nature | Pond, mountains, and seasonal flora | Harmony of forests, rivers, and villages |
| Aesthetic | Stillness and refined beauty | Elegance rooted in wabi-sabi philosophy |
Both share a devotion to “the spirit of harmony and the beauty of tranquility.” Walking through Daikaku-ji feels like stepping directly into the anime’s world.
Voices of the Fans and Future Attention
Thousands of fans visit Daikaku-ji every year, sharing their impressions online and in travel journals.
| Visitor | Comment |
|---|---|
| Female, 20s | “The sunset over the pond looked exactly like the anime scene.” |
| Male, 30s | “The silence and atmosphere truly captured Wano Country.” |
| Female, 40s | “Seeing Oda’s autograph in person moved me to tears.” |
The temple continues to modernize without losing its serenity—adding signs, resting areas, and visitor-friendly facilities. As a result, Daikaku-ji has become a new cultural destination where Kyoto’s tradition meets anime heritage.
Conclusion
Daikaku-ji Temple and Osawa Pond stand as a unique fusion of Kyoto’s history and the world of One Piece.
Here, the whispers of the Heian era intertwine with the imagination of modern storytelling.
The reflection of the sunset on the water, the quiet air of the temple grounds, and Eiichiro Oda’s autograph—all create an unforgettable experience.
When visiting Kyoto, take a moment to explore Daikaku-ji and feel the essence of Wano Country for yourself.
It is a place where the beauty of Japan and the spirit of adventure from One Piece coexist in perfect harmony.
