Namba Yasaka Shrine

Located in Naniwa Ward, Osaka, this shrine enshrines ten deities, including Susanoo-no-Mikoto, Kushi-inada-hime-no-Mikoto, and the Eight Children. Historically known as 'Namba Shimo no Miya' (the Lower Palace of Namba), it was revered as the local tutelary deity of the Namba area. During the Kōku era (1069–1073) of Emperor Go-Sanjō, it was widely known as an ancient shrine dedicated to Gion Sōten Tenjin (Sōten Tenjin). Legend holds that the shrine originated when Sōten Tenjin appeared to quell an epidemic in the area. Its most distinctive feature is the Shishi-den (Lion Hall), a massive stage-style shrine building shaped like a lion's head, measuring approximately 12 meters in height and 11 meters in width. It enshrines the aramitama (fierce spirit) of Susanoo-no-Mikoto and is believed to absorb evil spirits and attract victory. The Tsunahiki (rope-pulling) ritual, held on the third Sunday of January, is based on the myth of Susanoo-no-Mikoto slaying the Yamata-no-Orochi (Eight-Headed Serpent). This ritual was designated as an Intangible Folk Cultural Property of Osaka City in 2001 (Heisei 13).