Located in the city of Ichihara, Chiba Prefecture, Hakushin-ha is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the god Inari Okami, patron deity of rice, fertility, and prosperity. The shrine's main hall, Torii Gate, features intricately carved wooden beams and a distinctive curved roof. Visitors can participate in the New Year's (Oshogatsu) festival, which marks the beginning of the new year with rituals and offerings to Inari-sama.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Inari Okami
- Kami enshrined
- Inari Okami
- Coordinates
- 35.2359436, 139.7223121
Visitor tip
During Oshogatsu, visitors can participate in the festival by offering rice balls and performing rituals at the shrine's torii gate.
Cultural notes
Hakushin-ha is known for its unique tradition of 'tsukubai', a ritual where visitors wash their hands in a designated basin before entering the main hall. This practice is meant to cleanse the mind and body before making offerings to the deity.
Historical note
The shrine was founded during the Edo period (1603-1868), but its origins date back to ancient times when it was a sacred site for the local rice farmers.