Located in the town of Hitachi-Odawara in Ibaraki Prefecture, Sakura Inari Shrine is a Shinto temple dedicated to the worship of Inari Okami, the kami of rice and fertility. The shrine's name 'Sakura' translates to cherry blossom, reflecting its beautiful gardens and annual Cherry Blossom Festival. The shrine's architecture reflects traditional Japanese design with a main hall and several smaller shrines, including the Enma-den, dedicated to the god of hell. Visitors can explore the shrine grounds, which include a sacred stone path leading to the torii gate, as well as a museum showcasing Shinto artifacts.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Inari Okami
- Kami enshrined
- Inari, Okami
- Coordinates
- 35.7026889, 139.777621
Visitor tip
To avoid lines, visit the shrine early in the morning or late in the evening when the sun is not directly overhead.
Cultural notes
Sakura Inari Shrine is famous for its cherry blossom trees, which bloom annually around late March. During the festival, visitors can participate in traditional activities such as praying for good luck and prosperity at the torii gate.
Historical note
Founded in 1593 by Chiehō Sō, a samurai from the Odawara domain.