Namba Yasaka Shrine: A Popular Power Spot

Namba Yasaka Shrine is a well-known power spot, attracting numerous visitors from across Japan. The shrine's iconic ema hall, shaped like a giant lion's head, is said to "call for victory with its large mouth" and "swallow evil spirits, inviting good fortune and success in business." This unique feature draws many worshippers. While the main shrine is Kyoto's Yasaka Shrine, the kanji for "Saka" differs here, as it was named after Osaka's "阪" character. Additionally, Gion Gozu Tenno, often equated with Susanoo-no-Mikoto, is enshrined at Namba Yasaka Shrine, making it a beloved site for many even today. Though detailed records of the shrine's founding are unavailable, according to tradition, it was historically referred to as "Namba Shimo-no-Miya" and served as the guardian deity of the Namba area. By the era of Emperor Go-Sanjo during the Enkyu period (1069–1073), it was recognized as an ancient shrine dedicated to Gion Gozu Tenno. Originally a mixed Shinto-Buddhist site, the shrine underwent separation of Shinto and Buddhism during the Meiji Restoration, leading to the abolition of its temple and its designation as a village shrine in 1872. The current main hall was completed in May 1974. The annual tug-of-war ritual held on the third Sunday of January is based on the legend of Susanoo-no-Mikoto defeating the eight-headed serpent Yamata-no-Orochi, alleviating the people's suffering. In 2001, this event was designated as Osaka City's first intangible folk cultural property. The shrine is also popular among international visitors, ensuring it remains lively and bustling year-round. Namba Yasaka Shrine Address: 2-9-19 Motomachi, Naniwa-ku, Osaka City, Osaka Prefecture, 556-0016, Japan