Question 1

What makes Minase Shrine's water source special?

Accepted Answer

The shrine's 'Rikyu no Mizu' water source is one of Japan's 100 Famous Waters, as designated by the Ministry of Environment. Locals regularly visit with containers to collect this pure spring water, though there's a 20L limit per person.

Question 2

How do I get to Minase Shrine from nearby stations?

Accepted Answer

The shrine is a 15-minute walk from several stations including Hankyu Minase Station, Hankyu Oyamazaki Station, JR Shimamoto Station, and JR Yamazaki Station. The most direct route is from Shimamoto Station via Saigoku Kaido.

Question 3

What historical significance does Minase Shrine have?

Accepted Answer

Built on Emperor Gotoba's former villa site in the 13th century, Minase Shrine is the only shrine in Osaka Prefecture with the title 'jingu'. It enshrines three emperors: Gotoba, Tsuchimikado, and Juntoku.

Question 4

Is there anything special to see during summer?

Accepted Answer

During summer, the shrine hosts the 'Winds of Good Fortune' festival featuring 1,000 wind chimes throughout the grounds. The event includes special illuminations on weekends and creates a uniquely cooling atmosphere.

Question 5

What facilities are available at the shrine?

Accepted Answer

The shrine offers free parking in a spacious lot, gender-neutral restrooms, and a water collection point. There's also a shrine office where visitors can purchase amulets and receive goshuin (shrine stamps).