Located in the beautiful castle town of Okayama, Castle Mountain Inari Shrine is one of Japan's oldest shrines, dating back to 718 AD. Dedicated to the Shinto 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. Visitors can hike through the gates, which symbolize purification and spiritual growth.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Inari Okami
- Kami enshrined
- Inari, O Kamikami
- Coordinates
- 34.5977902, 133.7735283
Visitor tip
For a unique experience, consider hiking the torii gates during sunrise or sunset when the light casts a golden glow on the vermilion gates.
Cultural notes
Inari Shrine is closely associated with the mythology of Inari Okami, who was said to have created rice for humans. The shrine also hosts several festivals throughout the year, including the Cherry Blossom Festival in spring and the Star Festival in summer.
Historical note
The shrine was originally built as a temple, but it later converted to Shintoism in 1185 AD.