Sumiyoshi Taisha, A Timeless Sanctuary of Maritime Protection

2-9-89 Sumiyoshi, Sumiyoshi-ku, Osaka-shi

One of the three major Sumiyoshi shrines in Japan

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Introduction

Sumiyoshi Grand Shrine is one of the rare ancient shrines in Osaka, established over 1800 years ago, dedicated to the deity of maritime safety. It is one of the three major Sumiyoshi shrines in Japan and the head shrine of over 2300 Sumiyoshi shrines nationwide. According to statistics, millions of visitors come to offer their first prayers of the year before New Year's. The shrine was built to commemorate Empress Jingu's successful voyage to the Korean Peninsula in the 3rd century and the deity of voyages. The architectural style of Sumiyoshi Grand Shrine combines influences from Chinese Buddhist architecture. Inside the park, there is a captivating Taiko Bridge and over 700 stone lanterns, drawing people's attention. The four main halls of Sumiyoshi Grand Shrine are designated national treasures, and other buildings are recognized as important cultural properties of the country, making it a worthwhile historical site to visit.