Known as “Namba Shimogu” since ancient times, the shrine has been worshipped as the local deity of the Namba area, and once boasted a prosperous history with seven halls and 12 temples.
The shrine was founded during the reign of Emperor Nintoku (late 4th to early 5th century), when an epidemic spread throughout the area, and it is said that Ushitenno appeared and was enshrined there.
However, the temple declined due to military fires, and after the Meiji Restoration (1868-1912), the temple was abolished due to the separation of Shintoism and Buddhism.
The present shrine was rebuilt in 1974, and like the main hall, the “Shishiden,” a stage in the shape of a large lion’s head, was completed in 1974.
The huge lion’s head is 12 meters high, 11 meters wide, and 10 meters deep, with 24 teeth, eyes made of lights, and a nose that serves as a speaker.
With its large mouth, it is said to bring in victory and business fortune, while swallowing evil spirits. For this reason, many people who are about to take exams or find employment, as well as those who wish for the development of their companies, visit the shrine to pray.
In addition, on the third Sunday of January every year, a tug-of-war ritual is held. This is a very famous event based on the legend that Susanoo-no-mikoto, the god of the festival, killed the eight-forked serpent (Yamata-no-orochi).
The participants pull a big rope made of straw rope, which is made to resemble a Yamata-no-orochi, through the precincts of the shrine, and then parade through the streets carrying the big rope. It was the first festival in Osaka City to be designated as an Intangible Folk Cultural Asset.
No holidays
Free of charge
7 minutes on foot from Namba Station on JR, Kintetsu, Nankai, and subway lines.