Ishizu Jinja Shrine

Ishizu Shrine in Sakai, Osaka, is an ancient shikinaisha (imperially-listed shrine) of Izumi Province, also known as Ishizu Taisha. The shrine claims the distinction of being the oldest Ebisu shrine in Japan. Unique to this site, a wooden board beside the main hall allows worshippers to knock with a mallet while calling out their wishes — a charming accommodation for the Ebisu deity who is traditionally said to be hard of hearing. During the Great Purification ceremony, a chinowa (reed ring) is set up for ritual purification.