Located in the city of Tottori, Inari Okusha Shrine is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the god Inari, who is revered as the patron deity of rice and fertility. The shrine is famous for its thousands of vermilion torii gates that form a tunnel up the mountain, believed to be the path taken by Inari on his travels. Visitors can participate in the shrine's rituals and ceremonies, including the traditional rice-tying ceremony, where they tie yellow ribbons around the columns of the torii gates to pray for good harvests and fertility.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Inari
- Kami enshrined
- Inari, Ōkuninushi
- Coordinates
- 35.5016541, 133.5867698
Visitor tip
For a unique experience, visit the shrine early in the morning before sunrise to witness the torii gates bathed in golden light and take part in the traditional purification ritual with water from the shrine's sacred well.
Cultural notes
As a Shinto shrine dedicated to Inari, the shrine is associated with fertility and agriculture. The annual Shoden Matsuri festival, held in May, features elaborate processions and performances honoring Inari's role as patron of rice cultivation. The shrine's architecture reflects its historical significance, with traditional Japanese-style buildings and carefully manicured gardens.
Historical note
Established in 711 AD during the Asuka period, Inari Okusha Shrine is one of Japan's oldest Shinto shrines.