Sumiyoshi Taisha (摂津國一宮 住吉大社) is located in Osaka. It is one of the oldest shrines in Japan. Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine is a Shinto shrine. Built in the 3rd century before Buddhism came to Japan. The architecture of Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine is more unique than other shrines. In Japan the architecture council is like Sumiyoshi-zukuri which the roof is sloping not curved like other shrines. In Japan, there is a fence around the shrine called as the traditional Japanese architecture and there are 2 other shrines that resemble here: 1) Ise Shrines and 2) Izumo Taisha.

Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine will face to the west unlike other shrines that will face to the south in accordance with Chinese feng shui. As Shinto tradition say that before entering to the shrine you must wash your hands, wash your mouth before entering the shrine.

This place is not only old but the style of architecture and building is considered as outstanding – not just anywhere else not just in Japan-. You can say that the Asian level is still hard to find because it was created with a form called Sumiyoshi-Tsukuri that has a straight roof different from other places that have curved shapes. The gable will be decorated with cross-shaped wood, similar to the cross of Christianity. If it is more like a cross there is also a small wood lined up along the entire roof. Especially at the entrance to the south of the gable on the roof and a fence surrounded from the differences and old. This makes the shrine very famous in Japan.

This shrine is not only the architecture that makes it interesting if it was still due to the divine power of Kami (Shinto deity) believed that when worshiping will travel safely from all dangers. Especially among fishermen and sailors who respect this god very much. You can see that this type of shrine can be seen near the harbor. In addition to the main shrine like Sumiyoshi Shrine. The same area is also home to two other shrines: Ise Shrines in the style of Shinmai-Tsukuri and Izumo Taisha Shrine are Taicha-tsukuri. Taisha-zukuri have unique architectural features that should be seen not inferior to conclude, if coming here can be called “travel one see three places”.

Admission fees: Admission is free.
Opening hours: 6:00 – 17:00 hrs. (October – March: 6:30 – 16:30 hrs.)
Closed day: None Close day (Open every day)

How to get there:

By Train:

• 5 – 10 minutes walk from Sumiyoshi Taisha Station [Nankai Main Line]

By Tram:

• 3 minutes walk from Sumiyoshikoen Station [Hankai Tramway]