Yasakani Shrine (Moriguchi City, Osaka Prefecture) Complete Guide | History and Visiting Information for the Seventh Shrine
Yasakani Shrine, located in Oba-cho, Moriguchi City, Osaka Prefecture, is a shrine affectionately known locally as “the seventh shrine.” Said to have been established by inviting the deity from Kyoto’s Yasaka Shrine, this shrine boasts a long history. This guide provides detailed information on its enshrined deities, history, visiting information, and recommended nearby spots.
About Yasakani Shrine
Yasakani Shrine is a historic shrine nestled in a residential area of Moriguchi City, Osaka Prefecture. While its founding date is unknown, it has long been revered as the local guardian deity. The name “Yasakani” indicates its deep connection to Kyoto’s Yasaka Shrine.
The Origin of “The Seventh Shrine”
Yasakani Shrine is known locally as “the seventh shrine.” This nickname is thought to originate from the former street address or district of the area, and can be considered evidence of its long-standing familiarity with the local residents. Even today, many worshippers visit the shrine using this name, demonstrating the deep-rooted faith within the community.
Deity and Divine Virtues
Susanoo-no-Mikoto
The deity enshrined at Yasakani Shrine is Susanoo-no-Mikoto. Susanoo-no-Mikoto is a god who plays an important role in Japanese mythology and is believed to possess the following divine virtues:
- Protection from Evil and Disaster: Based on the myth of slaying the Yamata no Orochi (eight-headed serpent), he is believed to have the power to ward off disasters.
- Protection from Plague: Associated with Gozu Tenno, he has been worshipped as a god who repels plagues.
- Matchmaking and Marital Harmony: Based on the myth of his marriage to Kushinadahime-no-Mikoto, he is also known as a god who brings good fortune in relationships.
- Abundant Harvest: He also has an aspect as a god of agriculture, and there is a belief in praying for a bountiful harvest.
Relationship with Kyoto’s Yasaka Shrine
Yasakani Shrine is said to have invited the deity enshrined at Yasaka Shrine in Gion, Kyoto. Yasaka Shrine is the head shrine of the Gion faith, which is said to have approximately 3,000 shrines nationwide, and Yasakani Shrine can be said to be a shrine that belongs to that lineage. Like Kyoto’s Yasaka Shrine, it enshrines Susanoo-no-Mikoto and continues to uphold the belief in protection from evil and the eradication of plagues. ## History and Origins of Yasakani Shrine
History of Founding
The exact founding date of Yasakani Shrine is unknown due to a lack of reliable records. However, tradition suggests that the shrine has existed in this area since ancient times.
Given its history of inviting the deity from Yasaka Shrine in Gion, Kyoto, it is possible that the shrine was founded during the Heian period, when Gion faith spread throughout Japan. Moriguchi has long been a crucial transportation hub connecting Kyoto and Osaka, making it an environment where Kyoto’s faith could easily spread.
Connection to the Community
Yasakani Shrine has been deeply intertwined with the lives of local residents as the tutelary deity (ubusunagami) of the Oba-cho area of Moriguchi City. Even as times changed from the Edo period through the Meiji, Taisho, and Showa eras, it has continued to attract worshippers as a spiritual pillar of the community.
During the post-war period of rapid economic growth, the surrounding area developed into a residential area. Even amidst this wave of urbanization, the shrine, known as “Seventh Shrine,” has maintained its familiar and beloved status to this day.
Highlights of the Shrine Grounds
Main Hall and Worship Hall
The main hall of Yasakani Shrine preserves the traditional style of shrine architecture. While not large in scale, the meticulously maintained shrine reflects the deep faith of the local people.
Atmosphere of the Shrine Grounds
Although Yasakani Shrine is located in a residential area, stepping onto the grounds envelops you in a tranquil atmosphere. It’s a space where you can escape the hustle and bustle of the city and offer prayers in peace.
Annual Events and Festival
Annual Festival (Third Sunday of October)
The annual festival of Yasakani Shrine is held every year on the third Sunday of October. This is the most important festival day of the year, and local people gather to offer their gratitude to the gods.
During the annual festival, solemn Shinto rituals are performed, and prayers are offered for the peace and prosperity of the community, a bountiful harvest, and the health and happiness of the parishioners. Because it takes place during the autumn harvest season, it also expresses gratitude for the bounty.
Other Annual Events
- Hatsumode (First Shrine Visit of the New Year): Many worshippers visit in the new year to pray for safety and happiness throughout the year.
- Setsubun Festival: As the shrine enshrines Susanoo-no-Mikoto, the god of protection against evil, many worshippers visit especially on Setsubun (the day before the beginning of spring).
- Natsukoshi no Oharae (Summer Purification Ceremony): A Shinto ritual to purify oneself of the impurities accumulated over the past six months and pray for good health and protection from illness for the remaining half of the year.
Basic Information and Access
Location and Contact Information
- Location: 2-93 Oba-cho, Moriguchi City, Osaka Prefecture 570-0007
- Phone Number: Please inquire (Worship is free)
Access Methods
Access by Train
Using Keihan Railway
- Approximately 10-15 minutes on foot from Moriguchi-shi Station on the Keihan Main Line
- Approximately 12-18 minutes on foot from Doi Station on the Keihan Main Line
Using Osaka Metro
- Approximately 15 minutes on foot from Taishibashi-Imaichi Station on the Osaka Metro Tanimachi Line and Imazatosuji Line
Access by Car
- Approximately 5 minutes from the Moriguchi Interchange on the Hanshin Expressway Route 12 Moriguchi Line
- It is recommended to check in advance whether there is a dedicated parking lot.
Visiting Hours
- The shrine grounds are generally open all day.
- Please contact the shrine office directly for their operating hours.
- Please be considerate of local residents when visiting early in the morning or late at night.
Manners and Points for Visiting
Basic Visiting Etiquette
- Bow before passing through the torii gate: As a courtesy before entering the sacred area, bow slightly in front of the torii gate.
- Purify yourself at the water basin: Purify your left hand, right hand, and mouth in that order.
- Worship at the main hall: Two bows, two claps, and one bow is the basic method.
- Bow deeply twice.
- Clap your hands twice.
- Pray with all your heart.
- Bow deeply once.
Points to Note When Visiting
- As it is located in a residential area, please refrain from loud conversations.
- Please refrain from eating, drinking, and smoking on the shrine grounds.
- If you are bringing a pet, please be considerate of other visitors.
- Please take photographs only within permitted areas and without disturbing other visitors.
Relationship with Other Shrines in Moriguchi City
In addition to Yasakani Shrine, several other shrines are located in Moriguchi City, Osaka Prefecture. Each plays an important role in conveying the history and culture of the region.
Main Shrines in Moriguchi City
- Sata Tenjin Shrine: A shrine dedicated to Sugawara no Michizane, the god of learning.
- Morioka Shrine: An ancient shrine said to be related to the origin of the place name Moriguchi.
- Seizenji Temple: Although not a shrine, it is an important temple that serves as a center of local faith.
Planning tours such as the “Moriguchi Seven Shrines Pilgrimage,” which visits these shrines and temples, would be a good opportunity to learn about the history of the region.
Recommended Spots in the Area
Around Moriguchi City Station
The area around Moriguchi City Station, the closest station to Yasakani Shrine, offers a wide variety of facilities for shopping and dining.
AEON Mall Dainichi
- Approximately 5 minutes by car from Yasakani Shrine
- Enjoy shopping and dining at this large shopping mall
- It also has a movie theater, making it a place where you can enjoy yourself all day long.
Around Moriguchi City Hall
- Sometimes displays materials that allow you to learn about the history and culture of Moriguchi City
- There are many parks in the surrounding area, making it suitable for strolling.
Cultural and Historical Spots
Former Nakanishi Residence
- A valuable building that preserves the townhouse architecture of the Edo period
- A spot where you can feel the history of Moriguchi.
Yodogawa River Park
- Enjoy walking and cycling on the riverbank rich in nature
- Seasonal flowers and bird watching are also popular.
Gourmet Spots
A variety of restaurants line the streets around Moriguchi City Station.
Moriguchi’s Specialties and Local Cuisine
- Moriguchi-zuke: Traditional pickles made with Moriguchi radishes
- Enjoy dishes made with fresh ingredients at local izakayas and restaurants
- The area around Keihan Moriguchi-shi Station offers a wide variety of options, from chain restaurants to privately owned establishments.
Differences between Yasaka-no-kami Shrine and Osaka’s Yasaka Shrine/Yasaka Shrine
There are several shrines in Osaka Prefecture with the names “Yasaka” and “Yasaka.” Each is an independent shrine, and care should be taken not to confuse them.
Major “Yasaka” Shrines
Namba Yasaka Shrine (Naniwa Ward, Osaka City)
- Famous for its giant lion head ema hall
- Worshipped since ancient times as the tutelary deity of the Namba area
- Large in scale and popular as a tourist spot
Yasaka Shrine (Taisho Ward, Osaka City)
- Commonly known as “Kami no Yasaka-san”
- Enshrined in 1647 (Shoho 4) from the Yasaka Shrine in Gion, Kyoto
Yasaka Shrine (Higashinari Ward, Osaka City)
- The local tutelary deity located on Nakamichi
- A shrine that also practices Ebisu worship
Yasaka Shrine (Fukushima Ward, Osaka City)
- Commonly known as “Ebi no Miya” or “Ebie Yasaka Shrine”
- Worshipped as the tutelary deity of the Ebie area
These are all separate shrines and are not the same as Yasakani Shrine (Moriguchi City). Please check the location carefully before visiting.
Characteristics of Yasakani Shrine
Yasakani Shrine in Moriguchi City is not a large-scale tourist shrine, but rather a shrine with a strong character as a community-oriented local guardian shrine. Its distinctive features include its friendly nickname, “Seventh Shrine,” and its quiet presence amidst a residential area.
History of Moriguchi City and Yasakani Shrine
History of Moriguchi
Moriguchi City is located in the Kitakawachi region of Osaka Prefecture and has developed since ancient times as a transportation hub connecting Kyoto and Osaka. During the Edo period, it flourished as a post town on the Kyoto Highway, with many travelers passing through.
Since the Meiji era, it has developed as an industrial city, and today it also has a strong character as a commuter town for Osaka City. It is also known as the birthplace of Panasonic (formerly Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd.), and has a history as a company town.
As a Center of Local Faith
Throughout Moriguchi’s history, Yasakani Shrine has consistently remained a spiritual anchor for the people of the region. During the post town era, it watched over the safety of travelers; in the industrial age, it watched over the development of industry and the safety of workers; and in modern times, it continues to watch over the daily peace of the local residents.
Visitor Voices and Reviews
The following are some comments from people who have visited Yasakani Shrine:
- “It’s a quiet shrine located in a residential area, and I was able to pray in peace.”
- “You can feel the atmosphere of how much the local people cherish this shrine.”
- “The name ‘Seventh Shrine’ is very approachable.”
- “It’s within walking distance from Moriguchi Station, so you can visit it while taking a stroll.”
Its warm, community-rooted atmosphere, unlike large-scale tourist shrines, is highly valued.
About Goshuin (Shrine Seals)
Some shrines do not offer goshuin. It is recommended to check in advance regarding the availability of goshuin at Yasakani Shrine.
For those collecting goshuin, a “shrine pilgrimage” visiting shrines in Moriguchi City and the surrounding areas would be enjoyable. Learning about the unique characteristics and history of each shrine deepens our understanding of the local area.
How to Enjoy the Shrine by Season
Spring (March-May)
- A beautiful season of fresh greenery, perfect for a refreshing visit.
- A stroll through the surrounding parks during cherry blossom season is also recommended.
Summer (June-August)
- The Summer Purification Ceremony cleanses away the impurities of the past six months, and prayers are offered for good health for the remaining half of the year.
- Visiting in the early morning or evening is recommended for its cooler temperatures.
Autumn (September-November)
- The October festival is the biggest event.
- A pleasant autumn climate allows for a leisurely visit.
Winter (December-February)
- Many visitors come for Hatsumode (first shrine visit of the year).
- The Setsubun Festival is bustling with people seeking protection from evil.
Summary: The Charm of Yasakani Shrine
Located in Moriguchi City, Osaka Prefecture, Yasakani Shrine is a beloved local shrine known as “Seventh Shrine.” Many people have visited this shrine since ancient times, seeking the divine protection and warding off of misfortune and disaster by the enshrined deity, Susanoo-no-Mikoto.
While it boasts a history of being a branch shrine of Kyoto’s Yasaka Shrine and is connected to the Gion faith lineage, it has a warm, community-oriented atmosphere that sets it apart from large-scale tourist shrines.
Its convenient location within walking distance of Moriguchi Station makes it easy to incorporate into daily walks or stop by while shopping. Various events are held throughout the year, including the annual festival on the third Sunday of October, and it continues to attract unwavering devotion as a spiritual pillar of the community.
If you have the opportunity to visit Moriguchi City or Osaka, please be sure to visit Yasakani Shrine. You will be able to spend a peaceful time in its quiet grounds, away from the hustle and bustle of the city. By experiencing the history and faith of the region, your understanding of Moriguchi will surely deepen.
