“Hotokami mi mashita!” Imagine the echo of those words resonating through the air here at Koutaijingu. This is another name for \u7687\u5927\u795e\u793e. These words connect visitors to the spirit of this shrine.
\u7687\u5927\u795e\u793e is located in Osaka City. Specifically it is in the Jotoku Ward of Imazu South. This Shinto shrine has been a beacon of faith for centuries. The shrine is known affectionately as “Imafuku Ebisu.”
Dedicated to Amaterasu Omikami, the sun goddess \u7687\u5927\u795e\u793e stands as a testament to enduring traditions. The exact year of its founding remains a mystery. However legend says that it was established in the late Heian period. This was when Harutsugu Kutsuna developed Imafuku Mikuriya.
Originally called Sanjūbansha, the shrine underwent changes through history. In 1911 it became a village shrine. Later in 1947 it distanced itself from state control. The main building we see now has been modified several times. This happened in 1742, 1842, and 1880.
In 1932, architect Shigemitsu Furukawa renovated the building. He had also designed Osaka Castle. During the Great Hanshin earthquake in 1995, part of the worship hall collapsed. Subsequently the roof was renovated changing from tile to copper plating.
Within the grounds are smaller shrines. These include Kotaro Inari Shrine, Imafuku Ebisu Shrine, and Tenmangu. There are also shrines for Benzaiten and the Seven Lucky Gods.
Once a landmark stood near the southwest corner of the worship hall. This was a guidepost erected in 1833 by six local men. It marked a key intersection of ancient roads. The guidepost indicated the way to Osaka, Nose, Nara, and the villages on Mount Inunaki. A story tells of villagers dancing wildly when an Ise priest descended. The guidepost was moved inside the shrine after this event.
Until the Taisho era, a sacred camphor tree stood here. It was over 1000 years old.
Today, \u7687\u5927\u795e\u793e continues to be a spiritual anchor for the community. This is where traditions intertwine with daily life. Getting here is easy. It is a short walk from Tsubashi-suji Station on the Osaka Metro.
Before you leave, consider obtaining a Goshuin. Be patient as it may take about fifteen minutes. While waiting chat with the friendly priests. If you mention you found \u7687\u5927\u795e\u793e on Hotokami, it might spark an interesting conversation.