Located in the scenic town of Shibukawa, Gunma Prefecture, 户谷八稲荷 Shrine is a revered Shinto site dedicated to the god Inari Okami. The shrine's name, which translates to 'House Valley Eight Rice Cakes,' refers to the local tradition of offering eight sweet rice cakes to the deity upon his arrival at the shrine. Visitors can explore the shrine's serene gardens and tranquil atmosphere, while also discovering various cultural attractions such as traditional crafts and festivals.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Inari
- Kami enshrined
- Inari, Okami
- Coordinates
- 36.24131, 139.1874717
Visitor tip
To fully appreciate the shrine's serene atmosphere, visit during the autumn foliage season (mid-November to mid-December), when the surrounding mountains turn vibrant shades of orange and red.
Cultural notes
Inari Okami is revered as a patron deity of agriculture, industry, and commerce. The shrine's annual Rice Cake Festival (Gohadaka Matsuri) takes place in September, where participants throw eight sweet rice cakes into the river to ensure a bountiful harvest.
Historical note
The shrine dates back to the Edo period (1603-1867) and has been a prominent site of worship for local farmers and villagers seeking good harvests.