Sumiyoshi Shrine
A small Shintō shrine stands alone next to the Onomichi Channel. Beside it is an equally small marina, the site of Onomichi’s first docks. In 1740, Hirayama Kakuzaemon, an honorary citizen of Onomichi, was appointed magistrate. He built the Sumiyoshi dock the following year, laying the foundation for the economic development of the town. At that time, Sumiyoshi Shrine, which was located in the precincts of Jōdo-ji Temple, was moved to Sumiyoshi dock to serve as its guardian deity.
Every year on the Saturday around June 28, the Onomichi Sumiyoshi Fireworks Festival is held to honour the achievements of magistrate Hirayama.
Within the precincts of the shrine, there’s a tall stone lantern and stones of various sizes that were once lifted by boastful dockers who competed against each other in contests of strength.
Information
Name in Japanese: 住吉神社
Pronunciation: sumi-yoshi jinja
Address: 2 Chome-10-12 Tsuchido, Onomichi, Hiroshima 722-0035
