Namba Yasaka Jinja

The Essential Guide to Osaka, Japan

"Tucked away from Namba's busy shopping streets, the shrine is instantly recognizable by its giant lion’s head entrance whose open mouth—large enough to fit a crowd—is wildly photogenic; local lore says entering the mouth will swallow your evil spirits and leave you purified, the small shrine is open 24 hours, and you can pick up a red lion’s head keychain as a souvenir." - Kim Kay Kim Kay Kim Kay is a freelance writer with a focus on Japan travel and culinary culture. Her writing has appeared in Travel + Leisure, Tokyo Weekender, ByFood, and other travel and lifestyle platforms.  Travel + Leisure Editorial Guidelines