Located in the heart of Yamagata Prefecture, Matsushima Inari Shrine is a Shinto shrine dedicated to Inari Okami, the Shinto god of rice and fertility. The shrine is famous for its hundreds of vermilion torii gates that form a tunnel leading up the hillside. The shrine's scenic location on the shores of Matsushima Bay offers breathtaking views of the bay and its surrounding islands. Visitors can explore the shrine grounds, which include a museum showcasing local art and history.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Inari Okami
- Kami enshrined
- Inari Okami
- Coordinates
- 37.9921697, 140.1569039
Visitor tip
To avoid crowds, visit the shrine early in the morning or later in the evening when the sun is not directly overhead.
Cultural notes
Matsushima Inari Shrine is famous for its annual Matsushima Festival, which takes place on May 22nd and features traditional dances, music, and food stalls. The shrine's torii gates are also adorned with prayer tags called 'emakimono,' which visitors can write on and tie to the gates as a symbol of gratitude.
Historical note
The shrine was founded in 1869 as a branch shrine of the Hikone Inari Shrine in Shiga Prefecture, and has since become a popular tourist destination.