Located in the city of Ichihara, Chiba Prefecture, 猿田神社 is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the forest spirit, Sootomonokami, and the god of rice, Mikoto, as well as the Inari, who is also revered for his role in agriculture. The shrine's architecture reflects the Heian period influence, with a traditional Japanese-style main hall and a tiled roof. Visitors can explore the surrounding forest, where they may catch glimpses of the shrine's sacred trees.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Sootomonokami, Mikoto, Inari
- Kami enshrined
- Sootomonokami, Mikoto, Inari
- Coordinates
- 35.6594768, 140.0630251
Visitor tip
To fully appreciate the shrine's serene atmosphere, visit early in the morning or late in the evening when the forest is at its quietest.
Cultural notes
As an Inari shrine, 猿田神社 is known for its numerous torii gates dedicated to the god of rice. The shrine also holds a festival in May to celebrate the arrival of spring and ensure a bountiful harvest.
Historical note
The shrine was first established during the Nara period (710-794 CE) by the imperial family, and its current structure dates back to the Heian period (794-1185 CE).