It is said to have been founded by Prince Shotoku in 593.

The temple layout of Shitennoji is one of the oldest architectural styles in Japan, with the central gate, five-storied pagoda, main hall, and lecture hall lined up in a straight line from south to north, surrounded by a corridor.

In the precincts, in addition to the Shitennoji-style Garan, there is the Seiryo-in Temple (Taishi-den), where the spirit of Prince Shotoku is worshiped, and the Treasure Museum, which houses more than 500 national treasures and important cultural properties, including items from the time of the temple's founding.

Admission to the shrine is basically free, but there is a fee to enter the hall, central temple, and garden.

For parking, use the coin parking lot adjacent to Shitennoji Nandaimon.