Unique shrine dedicated to the deity of overcoming obstacles
Ataka Sumiyoshi-jinja is the only Shinto shrine in Japan dedicated to the guardian deity of overcoming obstacles. The shrine draws visitors seeking to prevail over challenges in business, studies, and daily life.
The shrine was first established in 782. It became linked to overcoming obstacles through a tale of the warrior monk Benkei (1155–1189) and his master, Minamoto no Yoshitsune (1159–1189). According to the story, immortalized in the Kabuki play Kanijincho, the pair were stopped by a guard at a nearby blockade but managed to pass through with clever deception. The shrine contains woodblock prints and embroidery depicting scenes from this story.
Basic Information
Ataka Sumiyoshi-jinja Shrine
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Address
Ta-17 Atakamachi, Komatsu -
Hours
8:30 to 17:00 -
Fees
Free
Ataka View Terrace
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Address
Ta-140-4 Atakamachi, Komatsu -
Hours
9:00 to 21:00 -
Closed days
Wednesdays, New Year's holidays
