Inaka Sōdō Inari-sha is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the god of rice, fertility, and prosperity in the city of Nagahama, Shiga Prefecture. The shrine is famous for its thousands of vermilion torii gates and is said to be one of the oldest shrines in Japan. It is an important cultural and historical site, attracting many tourists each year.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Inari
- Kami enshrined
- Inari, Otsukimi-no-kami, Fūjin, Raijū
- Coordinates
- 35.2792513, 136.2455891
Visitor tip
To avoid crowds, visit the shrine early in the morning or late in the evening to see the beautiful vermilion gates at their most vibrant.
Cultural notes
Inari-sha is closely associated with the mythology of rice and fertility. The shrine's many torii gates are said to symbolize the abundance of rice and the connection between humans and nature.
Historical note
The shrine was established in 711 CE during the Nara period, making it over 1,300 years old.