Hikawa Jinja, located in the heart of Ibaraki Prefecture, is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the worship of the kami Inari Okami. The shrine's name, Hikawa, refers to the nearby Hikawa River, which has played an essential role in the local community for centuries. The shrine's architecture and traditions are deeply rooted in the region's unique cultural heritage.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Inari Okami
- Kami enshrined
- Inari Okami, Fukaya-Okami
- Coordinates
- 35.7220336, 139.7403011
Visitor tip
To fully appreciate the shrine's tranquil atmosphere, visit at dawn or dusk when the setting sun casts a warm glow on the vermilion torii gates.
Cultural notes
Inari Okami is the primary kami enshrined at Hikawa Jinja. The shrine is also associated with the worship of rice and agriculture, reflecting the region's historical significance as a major producer of rice in Japan. Locals often visit the shrine during the autumnal festival to pray for good harvests and fertility.
Historical note
Hikawa Jinja was founded during the Nara period (710-794 CE), making it one of the oldest shrines in Ibaraki Prefecture.