The Menacing Namba Yasaka Jinja, a Giant Lion’s Head for the Namba Deity
The deity’s gonna eat ya!
Here’s something you don’t expect to see in Namba. A shrine/temple! Through all the bright neon lights and loud music of Osaka’s Namba nightlife district, there exists the Namba Yasaka Jinja, a small but imposing shrine just off the chaotic main district.
The Namba Yasaka Jinja has quickly arose to become one of the most interesting temples in Osaka no doubt due to it’s large lion-shaped head structure in the middle of the shrine. So let me bring you guys on a little temple excursion in Osaka :)
Affiliate Disclaimer: This page contains affiliate links. By clicking on the links and purchasing the product, I will receive a partial commission at no cost to you. All of these products are ones that I fully trust and recommend with my heart. Thank you for your support!
The History of the Namba Yasaka Jinja
The stage is a shrine dedicated to the guardian deity of Namba
Much like the rest of the historically significant structures throughout Japan, this current version of the Namba Yasaka Jinja that you see is a reconstruction. The original Namba Yaska Jinja temple complex was destroyed through various fires and air raids during World War 2.
There is only one source I could find regarding the history of the Namba Yasaka Shrine, even then the source is very vague as even it is unsure of the shrine’s origins. How mysterious. Also I don’t think the source is accurate as some information is um strange and inconsistent with other sources…? Plus the official website for Namba Jinja is only in Japanese and I can’t read Japanese…
Anyway according to legend, the Namba Yasaka Jinja dates back to the early 4th century AD when Japan was under the reign of Emperor Nintoku when an epidemic spread around the area. A spiritual Shinto god, Gozutenno, appeared and eradicate the disease. Thus the shrine was known as Nambashimonomiya or “Shrine under Namba” (according to the source linked above).
Exploring the Namba Yasaka Jinja
If you are down on luck or are preparing for your exams, let this lion eat your bad fortune
Alright let’s get to exploring the Namba Yasaka Jinja! The shrine itself is in dedication to Namba’s guardian deity mentioned in the above section. The massive lion head stage (although to me it looks more like a demon) measures a staggering 12 meters high and 11 meters wide!
This structure was actually built later than the main shrine building. The stage was constructed in 1975 and according to local beliefs, the mouth of the lion is supposed to swallow evil spirits and auras so that you may receive good fortune. This belief is mainly regarding business matters and school, So during exam season, you’ll see a lot of students praying here.
Actually, this is the main building of the Namba shrine, but the lion head is just more cool
The above picture you see is the main structure of the Namba Shrine, and it’s known as the Namba Jinja, also meaning Namba Shrine.
This is where the bulk of the worshipping and praying occurs.
On another note, if you want to do more exploring of Osaka’s temples, shrines, or historical buildings, you NEED to visit the Osaka Castle. It’s the most important and most famous landmark in all of Osaka, also it’s a great place to participate in Hanami, an activity of simply enjoying the natural beauty of cherry blossoms.
Man, if only I could read Japanese
If you happen to be around during the third Sunday of January, there will be a fun festival ongoing where a huge tug-of-war match is being held. This is in reference to a legend where the shrine’s deity once battled a giant snake and brought peace to the Namba district.
Google Translate helped me to learn about this artifact, not sure if the translation is accurate tho…
The Namba Yasaka Jinja doesn’t only have these 2 structure to show though, around the shrine grounds, there are various artifacts and statues that you can learn about.
One relic that I found quite interesting is this component that was recovered from a Japanese Warship during the Second World War.
Details About the Namba Yasaka Jinja
You won’t spend a long time at Namba Yasaka Jinja, but it is a fun little place to explore and it has become quite a popular place in recent years due to pictures and videos of it’s lion’s head stage being shared everywhere online.
Location: 2 Chome-9-19 Motomachi, Naniwa Ward, Osaka, 556-0016, Japan
Opening Hours: 9:00AM - 5:00PM | Mon - Sun
Entrance Fee: Free Entry
How to get to the Namba Yasaka Jinja
If you are taking the Osaka metro, the closest station to Namba Yasaka Jinja is the Daikokucho station which is only a 7 minute walk away.
If you are in Dotonbori, Osaka’s nightlife, street food, and shopping district, the Namba Yasaka Jinja is about a 17 minute walk.
Looking for Things to Do in Osaka?
Osaka Amazing Pass - Enjoy must visit spots in Osaka hassle free
Universal Studios Japan Express Pass - Skip through long wait times at major attractions
Street Go Kart Experience - Ever wanted to play Mario Kart in real life?
Discounted Tickets - Browse a variety of attractions, tours, and transports all for a great price
Useful Resources for Traveling in Japan
Tourism Information - All the information you need when traveling in Japan
Pocket Wi-Fi - Important for staying connected on the go
JR Rail Pass (Whole of Japan) - Easy , cheap, and unlimited access to JR transports
CHECK OUT OUR OTHER ARTICLES!
