Located in the mountains of Fukuoka Prefecture, Stone Cave Shrine is a remote and tranquil Shinto shrine dedicated to Inari Okami, the kami of rice, fertility, and prosperity. The shrine's name, 'oko no miya,' literally means 'in the valley' or 'oak grove,' likely referring to the surrounding oak forest. Visitors can walk through the peaceful forest path leading to the shrine, where a large stone cave serves as the main hall.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Inari Okami
- Kami enshrined
- Inari, Kanayamagahara no Kami
- Coordinates
- 33.5120179, 130.5363719
Visitor tip
To fully experience the serene atmosphere of the shrine, visit during the autumn foliage season when the surrounding oak trees display vibrant red and orange hues.
Cultural notes
Inari Okami is a well-known kami associated with Shintoism, often depicted as a fox or with multiple tails. At Stone Cave Shrine, devotees can pray for good fortune, prosperity, and fertility by offering sake, rice cakes, and other food offerings to the shrine's kami.
Historical note
Founded in the Heian period (794-1185 CE), Stone Cave Shrine has been an important center for Shinto worship and rituals related to agriculture and fertility.