Summary
Sumiyoshi Taisha (住吉大社) is Osaka’s grand shrine and the head of some 2,300 Sumiyoshi shrines across Japan. Founded by the legendary empress-regent Jingu in the early 3rd century, it honors the sea deities Sumiyoshi Sanjin and Empress Jingu.
The shrine consists of four main sanctuaries built in a distinctive ancient layout. It is also famous for the steep arched Sorihashi (Taiko-bashi) bridge and the early native architectural style called Sumiyoshi-zukuri (住吉造). Around two million people visit each January for hatsumode (New Year visit).
Key Facts
- Province: Settsu (historical province); widely regarded as the Ichinomiya (chief shrine) of Settsu.
- Enshrined Deities: Sokotsutsuno-o no Mikoto (底筒男命), Nakatsutsuno-o no Mikoto (中筒男命), Uwatsutsuno-o no Mikoto (表筒男命) — the Sumiyoshi Sanjin; and Empress Jingu (Okinagatarashihime no Mikoto, 神功皇后).
- Founded / Legend: Traditionally dated to 211 CE by Empress Jingu (legendary).
- Architecture: Sumiyoshi-zukuri (住吉造); the four main halls (1810) are designated as National Treasures.
History in Brief
According to tradition, Empress Jingu founded the shrine and dedicated it to the sea deities who guard safe voyages. Sumiyoshi once stood at the shoreline, spiritually protecting Osaka’s harbor and the routes to the imperial capitals of Nara and Kyoto. Over time, land reclamation pushed the coast westward, but the shrine’s maritime faith remained central to its identity. The four main sanctuaries, rebuilt in 1810, preserve the early Sumiyoshi-zukuri style that predates continental influences. Within the grounds, the stone stage (early 17th century) and other structures are designated Important Cultural Properties, while the famous Sorihashi bridge welcomes visitors to the inner precincts.
Enshrined Deities
The Sumiyoshi Sanjin are worshiped as guardians of the sea, travel, and maritime safety. Empress Jingu is revered for safe childbirth, prosperity, and national protection. Many visitors pray here for safe voyages, safe childbirth, prosperity, success in poetry and the arts, and protection from misfortune.
Etiquette
Please keep these simple manners in mind when visiting the shrine.
- Purify your hands and mouth at the temizuya (手水舎).
- Bow twice, clap twice, and bow once (ni-rei ni-hakushu ichi-rei).
- Keep quiet around the honden (本殿, main sanctuary).
- Please refrain from eating, drinking, and smoking within the shrine grounds.
- Aerial drones are strictly prohibited.
- Please be mindful when taking photos, as some areas may be sacred.
Visitor Tips
- The Sorihashi (Taiko-bashi) Bridge over the sacred pond is a symbol of Sumiyoshi Taisha.
- The bridge is very steep; stone steps can be slippery after rain—please walk carefully or use the flat side paths.
- Beyond the bridge are the four main halls built in the ancient Sumiyoshi-zukuri architectural style.
- Near the Fourth Hall stands a small rabbit statue (Sumiyoshi kami usagi), associated with prayers for good health.
Photography may be restricted near sacred areas. Please follow on-site signs.
Omamori (Amulets)
Common omamori (お守り) for travel safety, protection, and good fortune are typically ¥1,000–¥2,000. Offerings are made as hatsuhoryo (初穂料). Shrine offices usually accept cash only.
You can find details on the shrine’s official page: Amulets Page ↗
Festivals
Sumiyoshi Taisha celebrates many traditional events through the year. The three below are especially famous and draw large crowds.
- Otaue Shinji (御田植神事): June 14 — a sacred rice-planting ceremony with dancers, musicians, and Shinto rituals for a good harvest.
- Sumiyoshi Matsuri (住吉祭): July 30 – August 1 — the shrine’s grand summer festival, featuring the Nagoshi no Harae purification and mikoshi parade through Osaka streets.
- Kangetsu-sai (観月祭): mid to late September — a moon-viewing festival with poetry readings, music, and dance on the iconic Sorihashi Bridge.
How to Visit & Access
Located in southern Osaka near Osaka Bay.
From Sumiyoshi Taisha Station (Nankai Main Line) or Sumiyoshi torii-mae stop (Hankai Tramway), it’s about 3 minutes on foot to the main gate.
- Address: 2-9-89 Sumiyoshi, Sumiyoshi-ku, Osaka, Osaka (Google Maps) ↗
- Nearest Station: Nankai Main Line — Sumiyoshi Taisha Station (about 3 min walk); Hankai Tramway — Sumiyosh itorii-mae stop (in front).
- Hours: Apr–Sep 6:00–17:00; Oct–Mar 6:30–17:00.
- Official Site: Sumiyoshi Taisha (English) ↗
- Official Brochure (PDF): English Brochure ↗
- Official Instagram: @sumiyoshitaisha_shrine ↗
Travel times are approximate and may vary by schedule. Hours may vary by season and events.
Nearby
- Sumiyoshi Park — Osaka’s oldest public park; a short walk from the shrine.
- Sakai — historic canal city to the south; traditional blades and sweets.
- Abiko Kannon (Daikakuji) — a large temple a few stations away on the Hankai line.
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