朝日神明社, Shinto shrine in Japan

Asahi Shrine is a small Shinto shrine in Osaka located in the Konohana district with simple yet well-kept buildings and quiet, neat grounds. The compound features a torii gate at the entrance, a main hall with altar, small stone lanterns, and a water basin for ritual purification.

The shrine took its present name in 1907, when Asahi Shinmeigu in Chuo Ward and Kotai Jingu in Konohana Ward were merged, together with Kasuga Shrine and Akira Shrine. The combined shrine was first placed at Kawagishi-cho, then moved to its current site as the surroundings grew noisy. The buildings burned in the Osaka air raid of 1 June 1945; the main hall was rebuilt in 1949 and the middle gate and worship hall in 1965.

The shrine is dedicated to Amaterasu Omikami and other traditional gods honored for centuries. Visitors can see small offerings placed before the main hall and watch locals wash their hands at the water basin before praying.

The shrine is located in a quiet area near the 'Kasugade' bus stop and is easily accessible for a brief visit during a city walk. Visitors should take time to enjoy the simple surroundings and find a few moments of quiet reflection.

The shrine's alternative name, Sakaro-no-yashiro ("Reverse Oar Shrine"), comes from the dispute between Minamoto no Yoshitsune and Kajiwara Kagetoki over rowing backwards at the Battle of Ichinotani; Yoshitsune, confident after praying at the shrine, argued against Kagetoki. In 1615 Sanada Yukimura is said to have dedicated a golden command baton here before going to battle.