This is one of Japan's oldest shrines, dating back to the 3rd century, before the advent of Buddhism. There are over 2000 Sumiyoshi shrines across Japan, and they worship Kami, the gods who protect fishermen and sailors. This is the shrine of celebration for the people of Osaka. Around 2 million people come to visit the shrine each year in January, a ritual called Hatsumode, meaning the traditional first shrine visit of the year.