Inari Shrine, located in Echizen District of Maibara City, is a Shinto shrine dedicated to Inari Okami, the god of fertility and rice. The shrine is famous for its thousands of vermilion torii gates that form a tunnel leading to the inner shrine. Visitors can walk through this colorful gate forest and pray for good fortune or business success.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Inari
- Kami enshrined
- Inari
- Coordinates
- 35.2068271, 136.2586077
Visitor tip
To avoid crowds, visit the shrine during weekday mornings when the gate forest is less busy and offers a more serene atmosphere.
Cultural notes
Inari Shrine has a strong connection to the mythology of rice and fertility. According to legend, Inari Okami was discovered in the forest by a humble fox spirit who offered him sake and rice. The shrine's torii gates are arranged according to the color of the gate, with red gates representing good fortune and business success.
Historical note
The shrine was founded in the Heian period (794-1185 CE), making it one of the oldest shrines in Shiga Prefecture.