Namba Yasaka Jinja (with baby)
How Baby-Friendly is Namba Yasaka Jinja?
What makes it 54% Baby-Friendly: Flat paths allow strollers, yet no diaper tables, nursing rooms, or benches exist; carers must walk 5-7 min to Takashimaya or Namba Parks, so a very short photo visit is all that suits.
Positives:
- Free entry: Shrine grounds and ceremonies cost nothing.
- Stroller accessible: Flat pathways allow easy movement with a stroller.
Challenges:
- No baby-care facilities: No diaper-changing tables or nursing rooms; use Namba Station 5 min away.
- Limited seating: No benches or play areas on-site; baby will stay in stroller or carrier.
What is Namba Yasaka Jinja?
- A Shinto shrine in Osaka’s Namba district distinguished by its monumental lion-head main hall facade
- Founded around 1069 and reconstructed in 1974, enshrining deities such as Kushiinadahime-no-Mikoto, the goddess of matchmaking and harmony
- Features a 12 m×11 m×10 m Shishiguchi lion head whose gaping mouth serves as a ritual performance stage
What is so special about Namba Yasaka Jinja for with baby?
- Free, stroller-friendly shrine
- Iconic giant lion head ideal for baby-carrier photos
- Under 2 hours makes it easy on a baby’s schedule
- 5-minute walk from Namba Station
Recommended visit duration: 1-2 hours
Why 1-2 hours visit duration is ideal for with baby: Short visit allows time for photos and prayers before the baby tires.
Baby-Friendly Activities in Namba Yasaka Jinja
Family photo at the lion head:
Pose with your baby in front of the 12 m lion-mouth stage.
Tip: Use the flat pathway to push your stroller close for a steady shot.
Purify and pray at the main hall:
Perform the cleansing ritual and offer a prayer for your family.
Tip: Secure your baby in a carrier and follow the 2-bow, 2-clap ritual at the water basin.
Stroll the shrine grounds:
Enjoy the compact grounds and small auxiliary shrines.
Tip: Grounds are stroller-friendly but bring a sunshade on hot days.
When is the best time to visit Namba Yasaka Jinja (Osaka, Japan)?
Third Sunday of January features the Tsunayin Shinji tug-of-war on the lion stage—arrive early and bring ear protection. In mid-July watch the evening lion-dance light-up performances on select nights.
Explore These Activities
Reviews of Namba Yasaka Jinja (Osaka)
SC
Unique temple with the lion head. Quite small in size so it can be crowded at times. If you can fit it in between your itinerary, I would recommend stopping by as it would only take about 30 min for a quick stop.
Melissa R
On our last day in Osaka we started the morning with a visit to the Lion Shrine. What a magical place! Without a doubt one of the coolest things I’ve seen in Japan. We had some peaceful time here but after a while it started to get busier. After taking a few nice photos, we wandered around the area a bit more.
Kanato Butler
The place is a bit far from Namba station. Long walk is required. So, you have to face with hard sunlight and thirsty. Please prepare from exhausted. By the way, the shrine is magical and the charm is very cute. Don't miss this place if you want to find some inspiration and god power.
Meghana Gowda
Just another shrine. I wish there were some information boards explaining the reason for the lions head and about the patron good of the shrine. The lion head itself is worth visiting for a look, but other than that there is nothing special to do at this shrine compared to other shrines. Not a must do item or a place I would go again.
Luke Mielty
A busy but well worth it place to visit in Osaka. It’s kind of car from a metro or train station, but the walk is enjoyable. Once again, there are a lot of people there, but it doesn’t ruin it. The head is much bigger than I expected!
Typical Budget for a Family of 3 (2 Adults + 1 Baby)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Entry fee | JPY 0 |
| Omikuji (fortune slip) for parents | JPY 200 |
| Total Estimated | JPY 200 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Namba Yasaka Jinja
- Early morning visit: Arrive before 9 AM to avoid crowds and get clear photos.
- Portable diaper kit: Bring a compact changing pad and wipes since none are provided.
- Combine local stops: After the shrine, stroll to Dotonbori or Namba Parks for shops and baby rooms.
Map of Namba Yasaka Jinja
Address: 2-chōme-9-19 Motomachi, Naniwa Ward, Osaka, 556-0016, Japan
Map will load when you scroll here
Scroll down to view the interactive map
Looking for other Things to Do besides Namba Yasaka Jinja (Osaka)?
About Namba Yasaka Jinja
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
Official WebsitePhone Number
+81 6-6641-114910 BEST nearby Activities
Explore Popular Things to Do
How You Can Support Us
If our website helps you, please support us by booking your travel needs through this link: Book Flights, Hotels, Activities on Trip.com - New App User Promo up to 10% OFF. We may earn a small affiliate commission - at no extra cost to you!
It's a simple way to help us keep the site running and improving for everyone. Thanks for your support!
10 BEST nearby Activities