Indochira Shrine, located in the Akita Prefecture, is one of Japan's oldest Shinto shrines dedicated to the rice god Inari Okami. Founded in 718 AD, during the Nara period, the shrine is famous for its vermilion torii gate and intricately carved wooden gates. The shrine is also known for its numerous small shrines dedicated to various regional kami, including the local deity of the Akita region, who is believed to be a variant of Inari Okami.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Inari
- Kami enshrined
- Inari, Regional kami of Akita region
- Coordinates
- 39.5720078, 140.5912078
Visitor tip
To avoid long lines, visit the shrine early in the morning or late in the afternoon when it's less crowded.
Cultural notes
The shrine is famous for its autumn leaf viewing festival, which attracts thousands of visitors every year. The shrine is also connected to the legend of the local deity who was said to have helped the Akita region during times of famine.
Historical note
Indochira Shrine was founded during the Nara period and has been continuously operated since then.