Located in the city of Narita, Chiba Prefecture,小御嶽神社 (Ogatsu Shrine) is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the god of agriculture and fertility. The shrine's architecture reflects the Kamakura period, with a distinctive vermilion torii gate and a wooden hall dedicated to the goddess of rice, Inari. Visitors can explore the shrine's grounds, which include a traditional Japanese garden and a pond with water lilies. The shrine is also famous for its unique festival tradition, 'Ogatsu Matsuri', which celebrates the harvest season with rituals and offerings to the kami.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Inari
- Kami enshrined
- Inari
- Coordinates
- 35.6940616, 140.0002671
Visitor tip
To make the most of your visit, arrive early to witness the tranquil beauty of the shrine's gardens at dawn.
Cultural notes
Inari is the primary kami enshrined at Ogatsu Shrine. According to local legend, the goddess Inari was said to have been appeased by a farmer who offered her sake and sweets in exchange for a bountiful harvest. Today, visitors can leave small tokens of gratitude, known as 'emaki', in the shrine's donation boxes.
Historical note
The shrine was rebuilt in 1873 after being destroyed during the Genrozan earthquake of 1859.