Introducing the highlights of Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine! Let's explore the main hall and grounds

Explore the main hall and grounds of Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine

Sumiyoshi Taisha is the head shrine of the approximately 2,300 Sumiyoshi shrines across Japan. Although it is a prestigious and historic shrine, it has long been loved by locals in Osaka, where it is known as "Sumiyossan." Even today, the shrine receives over 2.3 million visitors at the beginning of the year, proving just how much it is loved.

Sumiyoshi Taisha is also famous as one of Osaka's most powerful spots, and there is a lot to see within the grounds. Be sure to check out the attractions of Sumiyoshi Taisha so you don't miss anything when you visit.

What is Sumiyoshi-zukuri?

The main hall of Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine is called "Sumiyoshi-zukuri" and is said to be one of the oldest styles in the history of shrine architecture. All four main shrines are designated as national treasures, making them extremely valuable pieces of architecture.

The cypress bark roof is straight-lined, and the two slopes on either side of the ridge look mysteriously like an open book. The pillars are painted vermilion, and the wooden walls are painted white with chalk powder, and the striking colors stand out vividly in the solemn temple grounds.

Speaking of Sumiyoshi Taisha, "Soribashi"

When talking about Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine, many people will think of Soribashi Bridge. Soribashi Bridge is the bridge that symbolizes Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine. It is commonly called Taikobashi Bridge because when the vermilion balustrade is reflected on the water surface, it looks like a circle, almost like a drum. Be sure to take a look at Soribashi Bridge from the side.

It is believed that simply crossing the Soribashi Bridge will purify you, but the bridge has a maximum incline of about 48 degrees, so please be careful when crossing and watch your step.

Goshogozen is one of the most powerful spots in Japan

Goshogozen is revered as the most sacred place within Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine. It is said that about 1,800 years ago, when Empress Jingu was searching for a site to enshrine Sumiyoshi-no-Okami, she first enshrined the shrine here after noticing three herons perched on a tree.

It is said that one can be granted the five great powers (the five great powers) of physical strength, intelligence, wealth, good fortune, and longevity at Goshogozen, making it one of the most popular power spots within Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine. To obtain the five great powers, one must find three pebbles with the characters "five," "great," and "power" written on them at the base of the cedar tree at Goshogozen, and use them as a set of three talismans. It is said that if one keeps these in a special bag, which is available for 500 yen, and keeps them close to them, their wishes will come true.

Enter the world of fairy tales with Issun-boshi's bowl!

Did you know that Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine has a connection to the Japanese folktale "Issun-boshi"? At the Chozuya (purification fountain) of Tanekashisha Shrine, you can see the brave figure of Issun-boshi...! In fact, it is said that Issun-boshi was the son of Sumiyoshi Okami.

It is said that it was Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine where the old man and woman in the old tale prayed to be blessed with a child. You can pretend to be Issun-boshi by climbing onto the "Issun-boshi Bowl" at Tanekashi Shrine and taking a commemorative photo.

A thousand-year-old camphor tree

The camphor tree on the east side of the lush grounds is an amazing 1,000 years old! It is the sacred tree of the Kusunoki Shrine, with its large, spreading branches and lush leaves. Look up and you will be impressed by its grandeur.

You can't help but feel the eternal history and mysterious power that has stood in this place. Take a deep breath and pray with a calm mind.

There's a lot to see at Sumiyoshi Taisha!

There are many things to see within the grounds of Sumiyoshi Taisha, including the main hall, a national treasure, Soribashi Bridge, Goshogozen, Issunboshi's bowl, and the sacred camphor tree. When you visit Sumiyoshi Taisha, be sure to take in all the sights. You'll surely be able to receive a lot of power from the shrine.

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