Located in the heart of Kagawa Prefecture, Shukuban Kotoji Shrine is a lesser-known yet fascinating Shinto shrine dedicated to Inari Okami, the deity of rice and fertility. The shrine's unique architecture, featuring a narrow entrance tunnel, reflects its role as a gateway to the spiritual realm. Visitors can explore the various shrines and altars within the complex, each representing different aspects of Inari's power.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Inari Okami
- Kami enshrined
- Inari Okami, Kamado No Kami, Oshin
- Coordinates
- 34.3776583, 133.5410941
Visitor tip
For those visiting during autumn, take a stroll through the shrine's beautiful gardens to admire the vibrant fall foliage.
Cultural notes
This shrine is renowned for its sacred 'kakegoshii' or 'narrow entrance gate', believed to purify visitors of worldly impurities. During the annual Hachiman Matsuri festival in May, devotees reenact a centuries-old ritual where they weave prayers into bamboo tubes and release them as offerings to Inari.
Historical note
Established in 1591 by Tokugawa Ieyasu, Shukuban Kotoji Shrine was originally built as a memorial for his wife, Lady Oshin.