It is said to have been founded by imperial order on December 29, 8th year of the reign of Emperor Sujin (90 B.C.E.). Located on the border of the three provinces of Settsu, Kawachi, and Izumi, in an area known as "Mikuniyama" (now Mikunigaoka), it was a strategic point for the movement of people and horses during the Nara period. It is also said that during the Heian period, pilgrims to Kumano would stop by and pray for safe travels. As a pure land unrelated to any province and without direction, the soil and sand within the grounds have long been revered as a god warding off evil, attracting worshippers. Even today, many worshippers visit the shrine to pray for protection from misfortune when building a new home or moving. Many people also visit the shrine following the custom of "katatagai," or going in a different direction if they are heading in an inopportune direction. The annual Chimaki Festival on May 31st follows historical tradition, with chimaki wrapped in straw mats (komo) leaves being offered to the altar.