Sumiyoshi-Jinja, shrine in Ono, Hyogo
Sumiyoshi-Jinja is a Shinto shrine in Ono, Japan, standing in the same location for nearly 1800 years and spread across about 2.6 hectares of grounds with old trees and stone paths. The main building displays the traditional Sumiyoshi-zukuri architecture with its distinctive roof style, and has been restored several times, while smaller shrines on the grounds are dedicated to various deities.
The shrine is connected to the legendary Empress Jingu, who reportedly prayed to the three Sumiyoshi deities before her voyage to Korea, creating the site's mythological link to early Japanese history. Official records mention the shrine's establishment in 737, though the institution claims it has existed for about 1800 years.
The name Sumiyoshi comes from the three deities worshipped here who are connected to the sea and travel. Visitors can observe traditional rituals like hand washing at the purification station and see how people pray at the smaller shrines for blessings and protection.
The shrine is easy to reach, located about a ten-minute walk from nearby train stations, with clear signs guiding visitors. It is open from morning until late afternoon, admission is free, and visitors should wash their hands and mouth at the traditional purification station before praying or entering the main area.
The shrine has a functioning Noh theater stage dating from 1938 that survived the war and is still used for traditional Japanese theater performances today. This historic performance space is a rare surprise that most visitors overlook, yet it offers a direct link to the artistic traditions long associated with the sanctuary.
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