Located in the heart of White City, Japan, the Plain Village Inari Shrine is a sacred site dedicated to the kami Inari Okami. Dedicated to the rice god and patron deity of merchants and craftsmen, the shrine is famous for its thousands of vermilion torii gates that symbolize the prosperity of agriculture and commerce. Visitors can walk through the vibrant tunnel of gates, which leads to the main shrine hall, a tranquil oasis amidst the bustling city.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Inari Okami
- Kami enshrined
- Inari, Okami
- Coordinates
- 36.5320304, 136.5472503
Visitor tip
To avoid long lines, consider visiting the shrine early in the morning or late in the afternoon when the crowds have dissipated. You can also purchase a portable torii gate (torii otogi) to take with you as a souvenir.
Cultural notes
The Plain Village Inari Shrine is closely associated with the mythology of rice and prosperity. During the autumn harvest festival, called 'tsukimi', devotees bring offerings of rice balls and other sweets to the shrine, seeking blessings for a bountiful crop. The shrine's vermilion gates are also a popular spot for photography.
Historical note
Founded in 1693 by a samurai named Soga Yasunaga during the Edo period, this shrine was originally dedicated to the Shinto god Inari Okami and has since been revered for its role in fostering trade and commerce.