Located in the heart of Saitama Prefecture, Eight-Horse Temple Rice Shrine is a prominent Shinto shrine dedicated to the deity Inari Okami. As one of Japan's oldest shrines, dating back to the Nara period (710-794 CE), it has played a significant role in the region's history and culture. The shrine complex features a distinctive eight-horsed gate, a symbol of good luck and prosperity.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Inari
- Kami enshrined
- Inari Okami
- Coordinates
- 35.7624553, 139.3040942
Visitor tip
To avoid long lines, consider visiting the shrine early in the morning or later in the evening. Bring some rice balls (chankonabe) as an offering to Inari Okami, which are also for sale at a nearby food stall.
Cultural notes
Eight-Horse Temple Rice Shrine is closely associated with the mythology of Inari Okami, the god of fertility and rice. The shrine's eight-horsed gate is said to represent the eight virtues of Inari, and visitors often tie their wishes to an eight-horsed horse-shaped paper charm.
Historical note
The shrine was rebuilt during the Heian period (794-1185 CE) after being destroyed by fire.