Hi there, Firstly, you can avoid the arched bridge by taking another flatter bridge about 100m to the left of the arched bridge, and then walking up a slope the the entrance. Inside the grounds much of it is a bit gravelly but I think it should be fine for a stroller. There are places with stone slaps which might be a little uneven but still fine with a stroller. There are not an tarmac surfaces like at many other temples and shrines as here most of the grounds are a hard surface with fine gravel over it, but firm enough for strollers. This is one of my favourite shrines in the Osaka area so I am sure you will enjoy it. Cheers.

Yes. This shrine is not strict to shoot pics.

私も舞台小屋には気づきませんでした。 ごめんなさい。

Half an hour is plenty, there is very little to see.

What type of luggage do you have? I don't remember there specifically being any lockers in the facility but there may be some in the Sumiyoshi Taisha station that is within walking distance! If you have a backpack you will probably be alright, the bridge is quite steep so heavy suitcases may provide difficult. Not to fear though, if you're entering the shrine from the Sumiyoshi Taisha station side, when you're facing the bridge there is a more gradual walkway into the shrine on your right hand side. (this is actually a better place for a picture anyways! :)) I would like to think some (if not all) of the walking surface inside of the walls of the shrine are gravel with some side walks. Definitely try to stop by before you go though, beautiful location! Hope you enjoy the rest of your stay in Japan! Feel free to message us if you have other questions or check out our blog @ pagesoftravel. wordpress. com for more info!

I'm sure that you can take a a taxi (don't know if taxis in Japan take credit cards - good idea to have some Japanese Yen on hand).. I was on a tour bus as part of a shore excursion from a cruise ship. If you are in Osaka you may want to find out if there is a Hop-On, Hop-Off bus as generally that is one of the best ways to see the various attractions in large cities. There was no entrance fee to go to this Shrine.