Located in the city of Omiya, Shiga Prefecture, the稲荷神社 is one of Japan's most famous and revered Shinto shrines. Dedicated to the kami Amaterasu Ōmikami, it is often referred to as the 'Shrine of Rice' due to its historical association with agriculture and fertility. The shrine's architecture reflects traditional Japanese design, featuring a haiden (main hall) with an iconic golden torii gate. Visitors can participate in various rituals and ceremonies throughout the year, including the autumn leaves festival and the New Year's (Oshogatsu) visits.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Amaterasu Ōmikami
- Kami enshrined
- Amaterasu, Ōmikami
- Coordinates
- 35.0059672, 135.9534446
Visitor tip
Bring an incense stick to participate in the daily evening prayers, where visitors write wishes on ema (wooden plaques) and offer them to the kami.
Cultural notes
As one of Japan's most famous shrines, 稲荷神社 has connections to various Japanese myths and legends. It is said that Princess Shōtoku built the shrine after visiting this very location as a child. The shrine also hosts the annual Autumn Leaves Festival (Koyo), which celebrates the changing colors of the surrounding maple trees.
Historical note
The shrine was first established in 757 by Princess Shōtoku, a sister of Emperor Shōmu.