Inari Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in the city of Karatsu, Saga Prefecture, dedicated to the deity Inari Okami, who is revered as the patron of rice, industry, and fertility. The shrine is famous for its vermilion torii gate and its thousands of vermilion lanterns hanging from its roofs and along its paths. Visitors can pray for good fortune, prosperity, and success by making offerings to the deity and tying pink or white ribbons with wishes attached to them.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Inari Okami
- Kami enshrined
- Inari Okami, O-mai no Kojin
- Coordinates
- 33.1575928, 130.3942443
Visitor tip
When visiting Inari Shrine, try to visit at dawn or dusk when the lanterns are most lit up and the atmosphere is peaceful. Bring a red ribbon to tie around your wrist as an offering to Inari Okami.
Cultural notes
Inari Shrine is associated with the mythology of the rice goddess, O-mai no Kojin. According to legend, Inari Okami received the sacred rice grains from Amaterasu, the sun goddess, and was tasked with protecting them. The shrine also hosts a famous festival called the 'Ume Festival' in October, where visitors can participate in traditional performances and games.
Historical note
The shrine was originally built in 718 AD during the Nara period, but it has undergone numerous renovations and expansions over the centuries.