Located in the Aoba-ku district of Sendai, the three-stem Inari Shrine is one of the most famous Shinto shrines in Japan. Dedicated to the Shinto god Inari Okami, revered as the patron deity of rice and fertility, the shrine is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Japanese culture and history. The shrine's architecture reflects its historical significance, with a traditional Japanese-style hall and gardens that showcase the region's natural beauty.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Inari Okami
- Kami enshrined
- Inari, Okami
- Coordinates
- 38.3117775, 140.4303537
Visitor tip
To fully experience the shrine, try the 'Five-Leaf Inari' ritual by purchasing five bags of rice and distributing them to the shrines' many fox statues, known as 'Inari', which are said to be the messengers of Inari Okami.
Cultural notes
The Three-Stem Inari Shrine is famously associated with rice and fertility. According to Shinto mythology, the shrine's name refers to the three stems of a sacred sake vessel that was said to have been discovered on the site where the shrine now stands. The shrine also hosts several important festivals throughout the year, including the 'Autumn Leaves Festival' and the 'Rice Planting Ceremony'.
Historical note
Founded in 744 AD during the Nara period, it was renovated and rebuilt several times throughout Japanese history.