Located in the heart of Tokyo's neighboring prefecture, Saitama, is the revered Eight-Horsemanship Shrine (Hachi-juu-jin-tō) and Inari Shrine complex. This historic site combines the worship of both Ota-no-Kami, a benevolent deity associated with good fortune, prosperity, and agriculture, as well as Inari Okami, the Shinto patron of rice, industry, and prosperity.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Inari Okami
- Kami enshrined
- Inari Okami, Ota-no-Kami
- Coordinates
- 35.8960772, 139.6445614
Visitor tip
To avoid long lines, consider visiting the shrine early in the morning or later in the evening when it is less crowded.
Cultural notes
Inari Shrine is known for its impressive vermilion torii gates, representing the gateway to the spirit world. Visitors often tie colored ribbons around the pillars, symbolizing their wishes and prayers. The site also commemorates the legend of Inari Okami's patronage of a group of rice farmers.
Historical note
This shrine was first established in 718 during the Nara Period and has been rebuilt numerous times throughout its history.