Ever wondered why an Osaka shrine faces north? This is the tale of \u6771\u516d \u5317\u5411\u5730\u8535\u5c0a. It is a unique and revered Jizo.
\u6771\u516d \u5317\u5411\u5730\u8535\u5c0a’s story began in 1891. It was unearthed from a field nearby. Locals believed it held spiritual power. The landowner built a hall facing north to enshrine it.
Typically Jizo statues face south. This is because the statue would then be in a lower position. However \u6771\u516d \u5317\u5411\u5735\u8535\u5c0a intentionally faces north. This direction allows it to attend to people. It listens to their worries. It saves those who come to pray. Facing north is an act of compassion.
North-facing Jizo statues are rare. It is said there are only around 400 in Japan.
The shrine has moved locations. In 1969 it moved 50 meters west. This was due to the construction of Hankyu Sanbangai.
\u6771\u516d \u5317\u5411\u5735\u8535\u5c0a may have watched over the 梅田(Umeda) cemetery. In 1888 a cemetery existed north of JR Osaka Station. The unearthed Jizo may have been near this cemetery. Facing north perhaps allowed it to watch over those buried there.
There was also a temporary relocation. In 1968, \u6771\u516d \u5317\u5411\u5735\u8535\u5c0a moved to Suita City. It resided at the Baisenji Temple. This was during the construction of Hankyu Sanbangai.
Every year on August 23rd and 24th festivals occur. The Hankyu Sanbangai Kitamuki Jizo Kuyo Association organizes them. Offerings adorn the shrine.
On August 23rd, a goma fire ritual happens. Ascetics from Wakayama’s Kumano Hongu Taisha perform it. They pray for protection. On August 24th, a Jizo memorial service takes place. Priests from the Ta融寺(Taiyuji) Temple conduct the solemn service. Worshippers can receive amulets.
It is believed to help those with illnesses. Specifically ailments from the neck up.
The priest 寺田八郎兵衛大和尚(Terada Hachirobe Daioosho) founded \u6771\u516d \u5317\u5411\u5735\u8535\u5c0a. Since its founding many miracles have occurred. Believers with severe illnesses seek help here.
Legend says to take two stones home. Keep one on your person. Place the other on your household shrine. After 100 days throw the stone into a river or the sea. Offer gratitude once a year to the stone on the shrine before discarding it. Remember to receive new stones before throwing the old ones away.
So the next time you are in Osaka. Remember the story of this Jizo. A story of compassion. A story of community. A story of \u6771\u516d \u5317\u5411\u5735\u8535\u5c0a.