Located in the city of Utsunomiya, Tochigi Prefecture, Inari Shrine is one of Japan's most famous Shinto shrines dedicated to Inari Okami, the god of rice and fertility. The shrine is renowned for its thousands of vermilion torii gates that form a tunnel leading up to the main hall, symbolizing the journey of rice grains from the earth to the gods.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Inari
- Kami enshrined
- Inari
- Coordinates
- 36.474518, 139.7533006
Visitor tip
For visitors with mobility issues, a accessible path is available through the vermilion torii gate tunnel for those using wheelchairs or walkers.
Cultural notes
Inari Shrine is famous for its numerous fox spirits, known as kitsune, which are said to be the messengers of Inari Okami. The shrine also hosts an annual festival in autumn, where participants carry sacred rice baskets through the streets to purify their souls.
Historical note
The shrine was originally constructed in the 7th century, but its current structure dates back to the 17th century.