OsakaLeisure

Hatamono Shrine (機物神社)

Flow of the course

About 45 min here

About 30 min to the next stop

Next stop: Walk the pond shore looking for waterbirds, then picnic in the shade

About this spot

This shrine in Kuraji, Katano City is said to enshrine Orihime the Weaver Princess and is known for its connection to the Tanabata legend. Together with the name of the Amanogawa River (天野川) flowing just nearby and the star-related place names scattered around the area, it shows just how rich a body of legend has accumulated here. The precincts are not too large, and the trees along the approach soften the summer sun, so even families with small children can make a pleasant short circuit. During the Tanabata season, bamboo branches and wish-strips line the grounds, creating a scene full of seasonal feeling. Knowing these local stories at the start of the day makes the afternoon scenery look a little different too.

Tips

It is a few minutes by car from the direction of Tsuda Station (津田駅) on the JR Gakkentoshi Line (JR学研都市線). The surroundings are residential, so please avoid parking on the street. Worship quietly and refrain from eating and drinking within the precincts. Visitor numbers rise around Tanabata, so early morning is the calmest time.