Background

Namba Yasaka Shrine: Guardian Deity of Namba

Discover Osaka's hidden gem: Namba Yasaka Shrine, home to the iconic lion head stage and a haven for good fortune.

4.4

Namba Yasaka Shrine, nestled in Osaka's vibrant Namba district, is a Shinto shrine famed for its giant lion head-shaped stage, the Shishiden. This unique structure is believed to swallow evil spirits and bring good luck, making the shrine a popular spot for those seeking blessings for academic success, business prosperity, and protection against misfortune.

A brief summary to Namba Yasaka Jinjya Shrine

  • Monday 6 am-5 pm
  • Tuesday 6 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 6 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 6 am-5 pm
  • Friday 6 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 6 am-5 pm
  • Sunday 6 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Visit during the annual summer festival (July 13th and 14th) for a lively experience with traditional dances, food stalls, and a portable shrine tour along the Dotonbori canal.
  • If you're visiting in January, don't miss the Tug-of-War Shinji Festival, a unique event that reenacts the legend of the shrine's deity defeating a giant serpent.
  • Pray for good luck and academic success by writing an ema (votive plaque) and hanging it at the shrine.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Walking

    From Nankai Namba Station, a major transportation hub, the shrine is approximately an 8-minute walk. Head east from the station towards Takashimaya department store, then turn left and continue straight. Cross Sennichimae Street and look for the Family Mart, turn right at the corner, then left, and you'll find the shrine. No costs are involved.

  • Public Transport

    If arriving via the Osaka Metro, several lines connect to Namba Station (Midosuji, Sennichimae, Yotsubashi). From the station, follow the walking directions above. Subway fares within Osaka typically range from ¥190 to ¥340 for adults, depending on the distance. Alternatively, from Yodoyabashi Station, take the Midosuji Subway Line to Daikokucho Station. From there, it's a short walk to Namba Yasaka Shrine. Subway fare is between ¥210-¥240.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in the Namba area. A short taxi ride from Namba Station to the shrine will typically cost between ¥700 to ¥900, depending on traffic.

Unlock the Best of Namba Yasaka Jinjya Shrine

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Namba Yasaka Jinjya Shrine

Namba Yasaka Shrine, a hidden gem in the heart of Osaka's bustling Namba district, offers a serene escape with a touch of the extraordinary. While the exact founding date remains unknown, legend traces its origins back to the reign of Emperor Nintoku (313-399 AD), when it was established to quell an epidemic. Over the centuries, it has been a guardian deity for the Naniwa area. The shrine's most striking feature is the Shishiden, or Lion Hall, a massive structure shaped like a lion's head. Built in 1975, the Shishiden stands 12 meters tall, 11 meters wide, and 10 meters deep. The lion's mouth is believed to swallow evil spirits, bringing good luck to worshippers. Many visit to pray for success in exams, job hunting, and business ventures. Namba Yasaka Shrine is dedicated to Susanoo-no-Mikoto, a Shinto deity known for his bravery and strength. Along with Kushiinadahime-no-Mikoto and Yahashira-miko-no-mikoto, Susanoo-no-Mikoto is one of the three main deities enshrined here. The shrine hosts several festivals throughout the year, including the Summer Festival in July and the Tug-of-War Shinji Festival in January. The Tug-of-War festival simulates the legend of Susanoo-no-Mikoto defeating an eight-headed serpent, Yamata-no-Orochi, to bring peace to the area.

Popular Experiences near Namba Yasaka Jinjya Shrine

Popular Hotels near Namba Yasaka Jinjya Shrine

Select Currency