Located in Kamakura, Kanagawa Prefecture, Fushimi Inari Shrine is one of the most iconic Shinto shrines in Japan. Dedicated to Inari Okami, the kami of rice, fertility, and prosperity, the shrine is famous for its thousands of vermilion torii gates that form a tunnel up the mountain. Visitors can walk through this gate forest, which serves as a symbol of good luck and prosperity.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Inari
- Kami enshrined
- Inari
- Coordinates
- 35.3799752, 139.6035608
Visitor tip
To avoid waiting in line, consider visiting early in the morning or later in the evening when the crowds are smaller. Also, be prepared for a good workout as you climb up the mountain through the torii gate forest.
Cultural notes
Fushimi Inari Shrine is closely tied to the mythology of Inari Okami, who was said to have created the rice fields of Japan and was revered by farmers as a protector of crops. The shrine also hosts several festivals throughout the year, including the Spring Festival (Shinobazu no Matsuri) in April and the Autumn Leaves Festival (Koyo Matsuri) in November.
Historical note
The shrine was originally established in the 8th century during the Nara period, but it was relocated to its current location in Kamakura in 1442.