Located in the city of Hitachi-ozuka, Ibaraki Prefecture, Shichifuku Inari-jinja Shrine is a Shinto shrine dedicated to Inari Okami, the kami of rice and industry. The shrine's name 'Shichifuku' refers to its connection with seven good luck charms or lucky symbols: rice ball, bamboo shoots, oranges, lotus flowers, grapes, pineapples, and pears. Visitors can explore the shrine's beautiful gardens, torii gates, and shops selling traditional Japanese sweets and souvenirs.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Inari Okami
- Kami enshrined
- Inari, Okami
- Coordinates
- 35.7002179, 139.789061
Visitor tip
To make an offering at the shrine's torii gate, tie a small blue string or cloth with a prayer or wish written on it. Take the offered rice ball as a symbol of good luck and prosperity.
Cultural notes
Shichifuku Inari-jinja Shrine is closely tied to the local industry of rice farming in Ibaraki Prefecture. During New Year's (Oshogatsu) celebrations, locals visit the shrine to pray for good harvests and business success. The shrine also hosts an annual festival, known as 'Inari Matsuri,' where devotees dress up in traditional costumes and participate in traditional dances.
Historical note
The shrine was built in 1714 during the Edo period to honor Inari Okami, who was believed to have helped locals prosper from agriculture.