Hi friends! This week I am talking about the first stop I made (aside from the hotel) in Osaka. A few of us in the group made it before the others, so out group leader took us to see some sites. So without further ado…the first shrine I got to see on this trip abroad, Namba Yasaka Shrine.
Namba Yasaka Shrine
Namba Yasaka Shrine was built somewhere during Emperor Nintoku’s reign in 313-399 (blows my mind…) and is located in Osaka. It is known for protection against evil spirits, banishing illness, bringing good luck, and safe delivery (childbirth).
The shrine is one of the smaller ones we visited and is said to be home to three deities:
- Susanoo-no-Mikoto: brings good fortune in warding off evil, dispelling disease and plague, as well as bringing prosperous business, agriculture, and fertility.
- Kushi-inadahime-no-Mikoto: brings good luck in marriage and easy childbirth
- Yahashira-miko-no-Mikoto: represents the eight sons born to the deities above
The lion’s head (as seen in my photos) is the main attraction. It’s known as Shishiden and is used as a stage for the various celebrations and rituals. It was built to protect against evil.
This info is from my experiences and the How to Osaka website. Credit where credit is due.
Accessibility of Facility
Parking
There was some (very) limited street parking. The shrine is a less than 10 minute walk from Namba station, which is what we did. The train station has steps, but elevators are available you just need to keep an eye out for them.
Bathrooms
There were no bathrooms here. Make sure you plan accordingly.
My Experience
Namba Yasaka Shrine was an interesting place. It was the first shrine I have been to and didn’t know what to expect. The quiet atmosphere didn’t surprise me, as we were in a sacred place, but the different structures were interesting and new to me. I think the lion was my favorite.
It was a hot and humid day, which affected me. The route we took to get to Namba Yasaka Shrine was mostly sidewalks and pavement. It had some inclines, which also affected me, but wasn’t a horrible walk. Once there, I noticed there were steps to get inside. There are other entrances and look to be step free, however, they aren’t the one I used. The main pathways are stone with grooves (similar to large bricks) and other areas are pebbles. If you (or your devices) can maneuver those terrains, you should be good.
The main shrine has concrete steps going up to it. I am not sure if there is a side path that leads up there. If you’re wanting amulets, goshuin (stamps), or the like, there is a shop to buy them. This one is also accessed by steps, however, I remember a sidewalk being off to the side to walk around.
My rating
If I had to put a rating on this activity, I would say it fall into the easy category. Everything is relatively flat and easy to navigate. I didn’t have an issue with the stairs as they were short. The walk there from the station did get to me, however, it was doable for me.
Unfortunately, Cardybear did not come on the Japan adventures. I wanted to bring him, but he takes up my whole backpack. He was definitely there in spirit though.
Be safe out there and remember your passport! Seeyalaterbye <3
Also, if you feel called to help a sista out with her travels, check this out!
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