Sumiyoshi Taisha in Osaka: Discover the Unique Architecture of Japan’s Oldest Shinto Shrine
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Don't miss Osaka's Sumiyoshi Taisha, a historic Shinto shrine with unique Sumiyoshi-zukuri architecture, sacred bridges, and millennia of history.
CONTENTS
One of Japan’s oldest Shinto shrines and among the most significant, Sumiyoshi Taisha (住吉大社) or the “Sumiyoshi Grand Shrine” is located just south of central Osaka, making it a must-see for travelers interested in ancient Japan. People still visit Sumiyoshi Taisha to pray for success in business, protection at home, and blessings in the fields of beauty and the arts, and in recent years, the shrine has drawn over 2 million Hatsumode visitors during the first three days of the New Year.
Shrine History & Architecture
Sumiyoshi Taisha is the head of over 2,000 Sumiyoshi shrines across Japan, but most visitors arrive thanks to an interest in the shrine’s age, and its celebrated architecture. First built in the 3rd century, the shrine is known for its “Sumiyoshi-zukuri” structure, a stunning example of one of Japan’s oldest styles of shrine architecture. Unlike the majority of Japanese shrines, which show influence from centuries of Chinese design, Sumiyoshi Taisha’s straight rooflines and distinct layout are all original. The four main sanctuaries are designated National Treasures!
Sumiyoshi Taisha Highlights
Starting at the entrance to the shrine, the Sorihashi Bridge (反橋) is a striking 20m-long arched bridge said to ward off evil spirits simply by crossing! As you near the shrine halls, you’ll also spot the shrine’s unique “Sumiyoshi-Torii” (住吉鳥居) gates, made with square pillars, a rare variation on the the typical round-pillar style.
Beyond the gates, the main sanctuary (本宮) includes the four Sumiyoshi-zukuri buildings, which showcase Japan’s oldest shrine style. Before leaving, make a wish at the sacred “omokaruishi” (おもかる石) stone toward the rear of the grounds – if it feels lighter on the second lift, your wish may come true.
Shrine Access & Tips
The shrine is easily accessible by train, just a 3-minute walk from Sumiyoshi Taisha Station on the Nankai Main Line. If you have access to the local tram line, it’s even easier, thanks to the tram stop (Sumiyoshi-Toriimae Station) located directly in front of the shrine. Most people spend around 30 minutes to an hour exploring the grounds.
Sumiyoshi Taisha (住吉大社)
2 Chome-9-89 Sumiyoshi, Sumiyoshi Ward, Osaka
Hours: 6:00/6:30 – 16:00
Official Website (jp)
Nearby Attractions
Looking to build a day in Osaka around your visit to Sumiyoshi Taisha? Nearby, you’ll find a number of historic attractions, including the Mozu Tombs, an ancient megalithic tomb cluster and UNESCO World Heritage Site. Shitennoji Temple, one of Japan’s oldest temples, and Namba Yasaka Shrine are also easy to get to – known for beautiful gardens and a massive lion-head, respectively. If you want to add some of Osaka’s more urban attractions to the itinerary, stroll through the retro streets of Shinsekai and head to the top of Tsutenkaku Tower, or visit Japan’s tallest skyscraper – Abeno Harukas – for some great city views.
Is Sumiyoshi Taisha Worth Visiting?
As one of Japan’s oldest Shinto shrines, and a showcase for the unique architecture of the Sumiyoshi-zukuri style, Sumiyoshi Taisha is an absolute must-see for any traveler interested in Japan’s cultural heritage. Stop by to enjoy the serene atmosphere and beautiful buildings, before you return to the busy Osaka streets for the rest of your trip!
This content has been edited and republished from Japan Web Magazine with permission. The original article was published on Apr 22, 2021 and updated on Jul 23, 2025. ©2025 Inbound Platform Corp. All Rights Reserved
Japan Web Magazine is an online media platform delivering expert insights into travel, food, culture, and local experiences in Japan. We share insider tips, hidden gems, and must-visit spots to help you explore Japan like a local. Whether it’s your first visit or you’re a seasoned traveler, we’ve got you covered!
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KAGAWA
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Kagawa Prefecture is on the northern part of the island of Shikoku, facing Japan's main island and the Seto Inland Sea. It's known for being the smallest prefecture in Japan, by area, but at the same time Kagawa is called the "Udon Prefecture" thanks to its famous sanuki udon. Aside from Kotohiragu Shrine and Ritsurin Garden, the prefecture's small islands are popular, and Kagawa is full of unique destinations, like Angel Road. They say that if you lay eyes on Zenigata Sunae, a huge Kagawa sand painting, you'll never have money troubles ever again.
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KYUSHU
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Located in the most southwestern part of Japan, Kyushu (九州) is an island of 7 prefectures: Fukuoka, Saga, Nagasaki, Kumamoto, Oita, Miyazaki, and Kagoshima. The island's unique culture has been influenced by Chinese and Dutch trade, along with missionaries coming in through Nagasaki's port. Modern-day travelers love the lush natural scenery and fresh food, plus the natural hot springs found all throughout the area (thanks to volcanic activity)!
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FUKUOKA
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Fukuoka Prefecture has the highest population on the southern island of Kyushu, with two major cities: Fukuoka and Kitakyushu. Thanks to growing transportation networks, Fukuoka is more accessible than ever, and so are the many local attractions. On top of historical spots like Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine, travelers shouldn't miss Fukuoka's food scene, with motsu nabe (offal hotpot), mentaiko (spicy cod roe), and famous Hakata ramen―best eaten from a food stall in the Nakasu area of Hakata. Plus, it's full of all sorts of destinations for travelers, like trendy shopping centers, and the beautiful nature of Itoshima and Yanagawa.
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KAGOSHIMA
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Kagoshima Prefecture played a major role in Japan's modernization as a backdrop for famous historical figures like samurais Saigo Takamori and Okubo Toshimichi, who pushed Japan out of the Edo era and into the Meiji. Because of that, Sengan-en Garden is just one of many historical destinations, and when it comes to attractions Kagoshima has plenty: the active volcano of Sakurajima, popular hot springs Ibusuki Onsen and Kirishima Onsen, World Heritage Site Yakushima Island, even what Japan calls the "island closest to heaven," Amami Oshima. Kagoshima might be found on the very southernmost tip of the southern island of Kyushu, but there's plenty to see.
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OKINAWA
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The island chain of Okinawa (沖縄) makes up the southernmost tip of Japan, which is why it's also the most tropical area in the country. Thanks to a history of independence and totally distinct political and cultural events, Okinawa has a unique culture, and remnants of the Ryukyu Kingdom are still visible all over the islands. Food, language, traditional dress, it's all a little different! It's also said to be the birthplace of karate.
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