This Shinto shrine, located in the historic town of Tsukudani in Chiba Prefecture, is dedicated to the kami of rice and prosperity. The shrine's name, 'Enryō Inari', reflects its connection to the rice goddess, who is believed to bring good fortune and bountiful harvests. Visitors can explore the shrine's traditional architecture, which features a distinctive curved roof and a torii gate adorned with vermilion paint.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Inari Ōno-mikoto
- Kami enshrined
- Inari, Ō-no-mikoto
- Coordinates
- 35.5505718, 139.7500454
Visitor tip
To experience the best of Tsukudani's rice festival, visit during the main harvest season and watch the vendors sell their goods in traditional straw baskets.
Cultural notes
The shrine is famous for its association with the Japanese folk legend of 'Ukai', where a man seeks the help of Inari to retrieve his stolen rice from a giant raccoon dog. This legend highlights the importance of Inari as the god of agriculture and fertility.
Historical note
The shrine was originally built in the Heian period (794-1185 CE), although its current form dates back to the Kamakura period (1185-1333 CE).