Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine

Sumiyoshi Taisha is one of the oldest and most important Shinto shrines in Japan, with more than 1.800 years of history. Founded according to tradition in the year 211, the shrine is the most important of the approximately 2.300 shrines throughout the country that bear this name. What most catches the eye on arrival is the Sori-hashi, a vermilion arched bridge with a slope so steep that it needs steps to cross; its reflection in the pond forms the silhouette of a Japanese drum, hence its popular nickname "Taiko-bashi". The grounds house four main buildings dedicated to different deities, with an architecture of the "sumiyoshi-zukuri" style that predates the influence of Chinese Buddhism. Entry is completely free and the shrine is open all year; at New Year it receives millions of pilgrims, being one of the most visited Hatsumode destinations in Japan. To get there, take the Nankai train from Namba station to Sumiyoshitaisha (about 10 minutes, 240 yen). Allow at least an hour to tour the grounds calmly.