Clay Figurines
Charms are available at many Shinto shrines. They bring good luck, grant wishes, or ward off misfortune. Sumiyoshi Taisha is no exception. The shrine’s popular clay figurines, called tsuchi ningyō, depict people and animals, often with a whimsical touch. Many are intended for specific purposes—to bring success in business or to promote a happy marriage. They are available at the main and subsidiary shrines for between 500 and 2,000 yen.
Jūnishi: The 12 animals of the Chinese zodiac.
Yakuyoke zaru: A monkey with a Shinto priest’s hat and wand. For warding off misfortune.
Koma inu: A guardian lion-dog that often stands at the entrance of a Shinto shrine. For warding off evil or preventing the departure of loved ones.
Mutsumi inu: A pair of copulating dogs. For safe childbirth or the relief of back pain.
Senbiki zaru: A pyramid of monkeys. For career or social advancement.
Omoto ningyō: A husband and wife. For happy relationships.
Hadaka bina: A naked man and woman. For a happy and honest marriage.
Tanekashi ningyō (available at Tanekashi-sha): A mother and child. For fertility.
Shōfuku neko (available at Nankun-sha): A cat with one raised paw. For success in business: a cat with a raised right paw attracts money; one with a raised left paw attracts customers.
Hattatsu takara-bune (available at Nankun-sha): Two cats in a boat. For growth and good fortune in business.