Osaka Off-the-Beaten-Path Tourist Attraction (2) 🏯

Right after getting off the station, you'll find the main entrance of Sumiyoshi Grand Shrine, lined with rows of lanterns, very Japanese indeed. 🏮 🌸🌺🌿🍃 Although Sumiyoshi Grand Shrine is the head shrine of over 2300 Sumiyoshi shrines across Japan, it's usually not crowded and very peaceful. 🌿 Walking over the tall red arched bridge, I followed the customary practice of purifying my hands and rinsing my mouth, 🌸🌺🌿🍃 then in front of the main hall, I imitated the Japanese in tossing a coin, ringing the bell, and making a wish. I also bought several omamori (amulets). 🛎️💰 Behind Sumiyoshi Grand Shrine, there's another shrine, the Kujaku Shrine, which enshrines Maneki-neko (beckoning cats). 🌸🌺🌿🍃 The left hand beckons wealth, and the right hand beckons happiness. I intended to buy two pairs but in a rush, I didn't pay attention and ended up with four right-paw cats. It seems fortune is on its way. 🐱💸 🌸🌺🌿🍃 Sumiyoshi Grand Shrine isn't large, and you can finish exploring in about an hour and a half. From here, you can take the tram from the station to Tenjinbashisuji Shopping or return via the same route and get off at Tsūtenkaku for a meal, 🌸🌺🌿🍃 both are great options. 🛍️🍜 For those who prefer less-trodden paths, this is a good place to visit, still a fine choice. 👣 🌸🌺🌿🍃 #SumiyoshiGrandShrine 🏯#OsakaTravel 🗼#KansaiTravel 🌄#OffTheBeatenPath 🛤️