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Sumiyoshi Taisha

, Osaka, Osaka

Description

Sumiyoshi-taisha is a Shinto shrine founded by empress-regent Jingū in the third century, it is dedicated to three gods of the sea as well as to the empress herself. The architectural style predates the arrival of Buddhism and the honden (most sacred building used solely for the enshrined kami) is built in what became referred to as the Sumiyoshi-zukuri style with thatched gabled roofs, raised floors, and plank walls. Sumiyoshi taisha is extremely popular (and crowded) for hatsumōde , the traditional New Year's Day visit to a shrine.

Access & Transport

The shrine is located in southern Osaka, 6km from Namba station. The Sumiyoshi Taisha Station on the Nankai Main Line and the Sumiyoshitorii-mae station on the Hankai tram line are next to the complex. Sumiyoshi station provides a third option since it is also connected to the Uemachi tram line.

Instructions & Recommendations

The list of rituals and ceremonies throughout the year can be found here: https://www.sumiyoshitaisha.net/en/rituals.html

Meta review

The shrine is often, but not always, featured in travel guides, most probably because it isn't situated in central Osaka but a little out of the way by tram or train. Online reviews however clearly describe it as the most interesting temple/shrine in the city, not overly touristy, with a distinct architecture and a gorgeous (and photogenic) bridge. A welcome contrast in atmosphere compared to downtown Osaka.

Environmental & Social

Environmentally neutral + green spaces. Part of the city's architectural, historical and cultural heritages.

Conclusion

Sumiyoshi Taisha is arguably one of Osaka's main religious complexes and is worth a visit. However, those who have toured some of the tourist highlights in Japan should not set their expectations too high as it can't compare in breadth, size or historical importance to some of the main temples & shrines of Kyoto, Ise or Nara, for instance.

Key positive

Very photogenic buildings and bridge

Original architecture

Key negative

None

Suitability

No restrictions and mostly accessible for visitors with reduced mobility

About this Rating

TYPE

Desktop

RESEARCHED IN

August 2024

PROVIDER

Koreval

Included Items
None
Timing
Duration of visit

av. transport time:0h 30m

est. visit time:1h

Regulated hours

Start of Season 1:Apr, 01

Season 1

MONDAY06:00 - 17:00

TUESDAY06:00 - 17:00

WEDNESDAY06:00 - 17:00

THURSDAY06:00 - 17:00

FRIDAY06:00 - 17:00

SATURDAY06:00 - 17:00

SUNDAY06:00 - 17:00

Start of Season 2:Oct, 01

Season 2

MONDAY06:30 - 17:00

TUESDAY06:30 - 17:00

WEDNESDAY06:30 - 17:00

THURSDAY06:30 - 17:00

FRIDAY06:30 - 17:00

SATURDAY06:30 - 17:00

SUNDAY06:30 - 17:00

Pricing
Free

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