Located in the picturesque town of Hitachi, Ibaraki Prefecture, Hikawa-jinja Shrine is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the worship of Inari Okami, the god of rice, fertility, and prosperity. The shrine's name, Hikawa, refers to the surrounding Hikawa River, which is said to have played a significant role in the shrine's founding. With its traditional wooden structures and serene gardens, Hikawa-jinja Shrine offers a tranquil escape from modern life.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Inari
- Kami enshrined
- Inari Okami
- Coordinates
- 35.7618977, 139.7584903
Visitor tip
To fully appreciate the shrine's tranquility, visit at dawn or dusk when the golden light of sunrise or sunset illuminates the temple grounds.
Cultural notes
As a shrine dedicated to Inari Okami, Hikawa-jinja Shrine is deeply connected to the mythology of the Japanese rice goddess. During the annual autumn festival, locals offer prayers and make offerings of sake and mochi to ensure bountiful harvests.
Historical note
The shrine was established during the Nara period (710-794 CE), although the exact date of its founding is unknown.