Inari Okuninushi Shrine, dedicated to the Shinto god Inari Okuninushi, is a prominent Shinto shrine in Shimonoseki, Shimane Prefecture. As one of Japan's oldest shrines, it has been an important site for worship and festivals for centuries. The shrine is famous for its thousands of vermilion torii gates, which form a tunnel that visitors can walk through to the inner shrine. This unique structure is said to symbolize the connection between heaven and earth.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Inari Okuninushi
- Kami enshrined
- Inari, Okuninushi
- Coordinates
- 34.8095238, 132.8465917
Visitor tip
To experience the full effect of the vermilion torii gates, it's best to visit at dawn or dusk when possible, as this is when the gates take on their most vibrant color.
Cultural notes
Inari Okuninushi Shrine is associated with rice and fertility. The shrine is famous for its Inari Festivals, which are held in May and September, where thousands of visitors carry baskets on their backs to honor the god of rice and prosperity. The shrine's architecture reflects Shinto tradition, with a main hall dedicated to Inari Okuninushi and numerous smaller shrines dedicated to other kami.
Historical note
The shrine was originally constructed in 757 AD, during the Nara period.