Indra Shrine, located in Akita Prefecture, is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the god of rice, known as Inari Ōkami. As one of Japan's most famous shrines, it has been an important center of worship and fertility rituals for centuries. Built in 1600 during the Edo period, the shrine's distinctive vermilion torii gate stands out against the surrounding natural beauty. Visitors can walk through the forest paths to the rear of the shrine, where numerous small shrines house Inari Kami, each representing a different aspect of rice and fertility.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Inari Ōkami
- Kami enshrined
- Inari, Rice god
- Coordinates
- 39.3901874, 140.0543813
Visitor tip
To fully experience the shrine's tranquility, visit early in the morning before sunrise to witness the traditional tea ceremony held at the main shrine.
Cultural notes
Inari Shrine is famous for its thousands of small shrines housing Inari Kami. According to Shinto mythology, these smaller shrines are believed to attract wealth and prosperity. During the New Year (Oshogatsu) festival, devotees perform rituals to ensure a bountiful harvest.
Historical note
Built in 1600 during the Edo period.