Naniwa Shrine, Shinto shrine in Naniwa-ku, Ōsaka, Japan
Naniwa Shrine is a Shinto shrine in Naniwa-ku in Osaka, distinguished by its large lion-shaped hall about 12 meters tall. The grounds feature a simple, well-maintained main building with traditional wooden structures and bright decorations that stand apart from the busy city around it.
The shrine was originally built as Naniwa Shita no Miya to honor local gods and spirits, but suffered destruction from fire and war over the centuries. The current main building was reconstructed after World War II, following damage from an air raid in 1945.
The shrine is a place where people come in the morning or evening to pray and seek good fortune. Visitors wash their hands and mouth at a small fountain before praying, a sign of respect for the gods they honor.
The shrine is open daily from 6 in the morning until around 5 in the evening and sits just a 6-minute walk from Namba Station, making it easy to reach by public transport. The grounds are clean and well-maintained, with small shops and cafes nearby, so you can easily combine your visit with other activities.
The shrine is known for its distinctive large lion-head shaped building standing 12 meters tall and visible from far away. This unusual architectural feature makes it easily recognizable and gives the place a playful character that sets it apart from other traditional shrines.
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