kishi shiro jinja

Kishiki Shrine in Kishiwada, Osaka, traces its origins to a Shinmei shrine dedicated to Amaterasu Omikami that served as the local tutelary deity. In the late 14th century, a separate shrine to Susanoo was established when Kishiwada Castle was built. During the Keicho era (1596-1615), castle lord Koide Hidemasa consolidated these shrines at the present site. Following the Meiji-era separation of Buddhism and Shinto, it was renamed Kishiki Shrine. The shrine is renowned as the gathering point for the Kishiwada Danjiri Festival each September, when elaborate floats make their ceremonial entry. It is also venerated as a deity of matchmaking, a reputation rooted in the nickname Chigiri-jo (Castle of Bonds) given to Kishiwada Castle.