Right in the middle of Osaka's busy Namba area you can find the Namba Yasaka Shrine, a slightly unusual Shinto shrine. It is famous for the huge lion's head that is part of one of its buildings. One interpretation is that the lion wards off evil and is therefore a bringer of good luck. The shrine is therefore a popular destination for people who want to pray for good fortune. The annual shrine festival is held on January 3rd and features a lively competition.

Photograph provided by Osaka Convention & Tourism Bureau