The Inari Ōkami Shrine in Tokyo is one of the most famous Shinto shrines in Japan, dedicated to the rice goddess Inari Okami. The shrine complex is renowned for its thousands of vermilion torii gates that form a tunnel leading to the main hall. Visitors come from all over to pray for prosperity and good fortune at the shrine's famous fox dens, where it is said that Inari sent her messengers - kitsune, or fox spirits. The shrine's architecture and tradition reflect the Heian period (794-1185 CE), with its wooden structures and sloping roofs.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Inari Okami
- Kami enshrined
- Inari, Okami
- Coordinates
- 35.6037912, 139.6465501
Visitor tip
To avoid long lines, consider visiting the shrine early in the morning or late in the evening when the sun is not shining directly on the torii gates.
Cultural notes
The shrine's fox dens are said to be inhabited by Inari's kitsune messengers. During the spring festival (Matsuri), thousands of paper lanterns are released into the air, symbolizing the spirits' release from earthly ties.
Historical note
The shrine was rebuilt after a fire in 1592, during the Sengoku period (1467-1603 CE).