A Tranquil Place of Faith

Although visiting shrines was not our primary goal during our trip to Japan, out of respect for spiritual beliefs, it turned out to be a very rewarding experience. If you have to choose one shrine to visit in Osaka, even without any religious motivation, it should undoubtedly be this one. Sumiyoshi Taisha exudes an unparalleled sense of tranquility, standing in stark contrast to the bustling city, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in harmony with nature. The architectural details of the shrine, along with the intricate wood carvings and colors, showcase the skills of Japanese craftsmen. Every building, majestic torii gate, bridge, sculpture, and painting offers a rich cultural experience. At the entrance of the shrine, there is a steep curved bridge spanning a rushing stream. You can find smaller adjacent shrines by checking the provided map, and these smaller shrines have some very cool features. On the left side of the shrine, there are three heavy stones. We were told to stand in front of the rocks, clap three times, then lift and lower the stones. Then step back, clap three times again, touch the stones, make a wish, and lift the heavy stones again - if the stones feel lighter than the first time, the wish will come true. There is no entrance fee, and from where we were in Osaka, it took about 20 minutes to reach 'Sumiyoshi Taisha' NK08 by taking the Nankai Electric Railway Main Line. From the train exit, walk 300 meters forward to find the main approach to Sumiyoshi Taisha. Whether you are a seeker of religion or simply an admirer of architecture and natural beauty, Sumiyoshi Taisha should not be missed. I highly recommend it!