Namba Yasaka Shrine, Osaka

Yasaka Shrine is a nice surprise, hidden in a busy metropolis like Osaka. It's an unusual shrine, maybe not easy to find without a map. The main attraction for visiting this Shrine is to see the face of the giant lion it hosts, a unique piece of architecture. The large statue, 12 meters tall, 7 meters wide and 7 meters wide, is believed to swallow malevolent spirits and attract good luck, especially for those looking to do well in school and business. Walking around the shrine you can find other small shrines, and little fox statues, associated with the kami Inari, who, in Shintoism, represents fertility, rice, success and agriculture.