Highlights of the Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine! Explore the Main Hall and the Shrine Grounds!

Explore the Main Hall and Grounds of Sumiyoshi Taisha

Sumiyoshi Taisha is the main shrine of approximately 2,300 Sumiyoshi Shrines throughout Japan. Despite its high status and historical significance, it has long been affectionately called "Sumiyossan" by locals in Osaka, a testament to its deep-rooted connection with the community. Each New Year, over 2.3 million worshippers visit the shrine, demonstrating its lasting popularity.

Additionally, Sumiyoshi Taisha is known as one of Osaka's top spiritual spots, and its grounds are full of things to see. To make sure you don't miss anything during your visit, take a look at all that Sumiyoshi Taisha has to offer!

What is Sumiyoshi-zukuri?

The main hall of Sumiyoshi Taisha is built in a style known as "Sumiyoshi Zukuri", one of the oldest styles in Shinto architecture. All four main sanctuaries are designated as National Treasures and are considered architectural works.

The roof, made with cypress barks thatching, has two sloping sides extending from the ridge, creating a unique shape reminiscent of an open book. The pillars are painted a vivid red, while the walls are coated in a white gofun (chalk), creating a striking contrast that stands within the dignified grounds.

Sumiyoshi Taisha and the Famous Sorihashi Bridge

When people think of Sumiyoshi Taisha, the iconic Sorihashi Bridge often comes to mind. This bridge is symbolic to the shrine, and is also known as Taiko Bridge, as its reflection on the water creates a circular shape, resembling a drum (taiko). Be sure to view the bridge from the side to appreciate its full beauty.

There is the belief that simply crossing the Sorihashi will purify you. With a maximum incline of about 48-degrees, be careful as you cross.

Goshogozen: One of Japan's Top Power Spots

Goshogozen is revered as the most sacred spot within Sumiyoshi Taisha. Legend has it that over 1,800 years ago, Empress Jingu was searching for a site to enshrine Sumiyoshi no Okami, and chose this place after three herons landed on a tree here.

At Goshogozen, worshippers are said to receive the five great powers: physical strength, wisdom, wealth, happiness, and longevity. To gain these blessings, visitors can search for three small stones engraved with the characters for "Five 五", "Great 大", and "Power 力" around the base of the sacred cedar tree. These stones can be placed in a special bag (available for 500-yen), and kept as a personal charm to fulfill one's wishes.

Step into the World of Fairytales with the Bowl of Issun Boshi!?

Did you know that Sumiyo Taisha has a connection with the Japanese folktale "Issun Boshi"? In the water basin of Tanekashi-sha Shrine, you'll find a spirited figure of Issun Boshi! According to legend, Issun Boshi was a child of Sumiyoshi no Okami (patron deities of seafarers).

In folktale, an old couple prayed at Sumiyoshi Taisha to be blessed with a child. There is also a large "Bowl of Issun Boshi" at Tanekashi-sha, where visitors can sit and take photos as if they are Issun Boshi himself.

The Thousand-Year-Old Sacred Camphor Tree

On the lush eastern side of the shrine grounds stands a sacred camphor tree that is over a thousand years old. This enormous tree is a sacred symbol of Kumori-sha Shrine, with branches spreading wide and leaves that flourish. Looking up at it, one can't help but feel awed by its majesty.

It's impossible not to feel the mystical power and ancient history of this site. Take a deep breath and approach it with a calm heart.

Sumiyoshi Taisha is Full of Sights to See!

From the National Treasure-designated main hall, to the Sorihashi Bridge, Goshogozen, the Bowl of Issun Boshi, and the thousand-year-old sacred camphor tree, the grounds of Sumiyoshi Taisha are packed with attractions. Be sure to take it all the highlands when you visit Sumiyoshi Taisha! You're sure to feel blessed with plenty of positive energy!

Original article: https://otent-nankai.jp/category/topic/220329_sumiyoshitaisha-mainshrine_698