The White Bird Shrine, located in Tokushima Prefecture, is dedicated to the Shinto deity Inari Okami, revered as the patron of fertility, rice, and industry. The shrine's architecture reflects its historical significance during the Heian period (794-1185 CE), with a unique five-story pagoda dating back to 1167. Visitors can participate in the Sanja Matsuri festival in spring, where they can witness traditional dances, music, and offerings to Inari Okami.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Inari
- Kami enshrined
- Inari, Okami
- Coordinates
- 33.7728786, 134.5800428
Visitor tip
To fully appreciate the shrine's beauty, visit at dawn or dusk when the sunlight filters through the pagoda's intricate wooden latticework.
Cultural notes
In Tokushima, white birds are considered sacred and often appear in Shinto folklore as messengers of Inari Okami. During the Sanja Matsuri festival, devotees offer white offerings to symbolize peace and prosperity.
Historical note
The shrine was rebuilt after being destroyed during the Edo period (1603-1868 CE), with its current structure dating back to the Meiji era (1868-1912 CE).