East Kanagawa Forest Inari Shrine, located in the scenic town of Tsukuma in Chiba Prefecture, is dedicated to the Shinto god of fertility and rice, Inari Okami. The shrine's name reflects its proximity to the dense East Kanagawa Forest, where mythical creatures like the tengu are said to roam. The shrine complex features a traditional torii gate, moss-covered stone lanterns, and an impressive bell tower adorned with wooden figurines of Inari and his trusty fox spirits.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Inari
- Kami enshrined
- Inari Okami
- Coordinates
- 35.5825012, 139.7347769
Visitor tip
To avoid long lines, visit the shrine early in the morning or later in the afternoon, and don't forget to bring some rice to make a small offering to Inari.
Cultural notes
The shrine is famous for its Fox Dance (Kitsune Odori) festival held annually on July 10th, where devotees perform a choreographed dance with fox-shaped props. The shrine also has a unique tradition of fox spirit worship, which is believed to bring good fortune and prosperity.
Historical note
The shrine was originally built during the Nara period (710-794 CE), but its current form dates back to the Edo period (1603-1867 CE).