Located in the city of Yokohama, Kamakura's Inari Okumya Shrine is one of Japan's most famous Shinto shrines, dedicated to the god Inari Okami. As a patron of rice and fertility, Inari Okami is revered for his role in ensuring a bountiful harvest and prosperity. The shrine's architecture reflects its historical significance, with a traditional vermillion torii gate adorned with intricately carved wooden doors. Visitors can explore the labyrinthine passageways lined with vermilion lanterns, known as 'oriel,' which are said to guide pilgrims on their journey to Inari Okami.
- Denomination
- oinarisan
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Inari Okami
- Kami enshrined
- Inari Okami
- Coordinates
- 35.3502195, 139.4786601
Visitor tip
To respect the shrine's tradition, visitors should remove their shoes before entering the main hall and refrain from eating or drinking inside the premises.
Cultural notes
As a major Shinto shrine, Inari Okumya is involved in the annual 'Matsuri' festival, where devotees carry vermilion lanterns through the streets to pray for good luck and prosperity. The shrine's famous 'Inari Okami' statue, adorned with thousands of small fox figurines called ' Kitsune,' represents the god's association with fertility and agriculture.
Historical note
Founded in 1604 during the Edo period, it was originally built to protect the city of Yokohama from fires.