Bear's Forest Shrine is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the worship of Inari Ōkami, the kami of rice and industry. Located in the heart of Narita City, Chiba Prefecture, the shrine is renowned for its beautiful gardens, intricate wooden structures, and historic significance as a major stopping point on the Tokaido highway.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Inari Ōkami
- Kami enshrined
- Inari Ōkami
- Coordinates
- 35.3021113, 140.1467341
Visitor tip
To fully appreciate the shrine's tranquility, visit at dawn or dusk when the gardens are bathed in soft, golden light and the sounds of nature are most serene.
Cultural notes
Inari Ōkami is often depicted as a fox spirit, and Bear's Forest Shrine features a large wooden Inari sculpture with eight arms, symbolizing abundance and prosperity. The shrine also hosts an annual autumn festival, where visitors can participate in traditional games and competitions to bring good luck.
Historical note
Founded in 654 CE, Bear's Forest Shrine has been an important pilgrimage site for centuries.