Located in the heart of Tokyo, Fushimi Inari Taisha is a renowned Shinto shrine dedicated to the god of rice and fertility, Inari Okami. The shrine is famous for its thousands of vermilion torii gates that form a tunnel up the mountain, creating a breathtaking and iconic sight. Visitors can participate in the shrine's famous fox bell ringing ceremony, where they ring large bronze bells to purify themselves before entering the shrine grounds.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Inari
- Kami enshrined
- Inari, Okami
- Coordinates
- 35.5163424, 139.4214666
Visitor tip
To avoid crowds, consider visiting early in the morning or later in the evening when the fox bell ringing ceremony is less busy.
Cultural notes
Fushimi Inari Taisha is closely associated with the mythology of Inari Okami and his sacred fox messengers, known as kitsune. The shrine's famous fox bell ringing ceremony is believed to have originated during the Edo period, when the shrine was a major destination for Shinto pilgrims.
Historical note
The shrine was founded in 711 AD by Prince Shotoku, making it one of the oldest shrines in Japan.