Located in the heart of Nikko, white fox god shrine is dedicated to the Shinto deity that embodies prosperity, good fortune and longevity. According to legend, a wise and beautiful fox spirit named Kijaku appeared in the area many years ago, bringing fertility and prosperity to the local community. The shrine's architecture reflects its origins as a humble hut built by a Buddhist monk who had been converted to Shintoism by Kijaku. Today, visitors can still see remnants of this original structure in the shrine's main hall.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Kijaku
- Kami enshrined
- Fox Spirit
- Coordinates
- 35.9680183, 139.4303208
Visitor tip
To make the most of your visit, consider arriving early to avoid crowds, and be sure to stop by the nearby Tamozawa Imperial Villa Park, which features stunning gardens and a beautiful collection of Japanese art and artifacts.
Cultural notes
The shrine is famous for its 'White Fox Festival' held annually in December, where devotees dress up as fox spirits and perform traditional dances. The festival is said to bring good luck and prosperity in the coming year.
Historical note
The shrine was rebuilt after suffering damage during the Meiji period, when many traditional Shinto shrines were renovated and modernized.