The Conference & Award Gala Dinner will take place on Tuesday 23 May at Sumiyoshi Taisha, the head shrine for Japan's approximately 2,300 Sumiyoshi shrines.
Founded by the legendary empress-regent Jingū in the third century, it honors four deities: a trio of sea gods called the Sumiyoshi Sanjin, and Empress Jingū herself, whose spirit was enshrined alongside them after her death.
Sumiyoshi Taisha is the main and most famous of over two thousand Sumiyoshi shrines found across Japan. Sumiyoshi shrines enshrine the kami (Shinto gods) who protect travelers, fishermen and sailors at sea. The shrines are therefore usually found close to harbors.
Sumiyoshi Taisha has more than 30 auxiliary shrines, as well as a number of festivals and rituals, including Sumiyoshi Matsuri. The grounds of the shrine are carefully preserved as a national treasure and important cultural property for their architectural and cultural value.
Companions of delegates are also welcome, but are kindly requested to purchase a ticket at the online registration form. Free shuttles buses will be offered to the dinner venue.
