Located in the heart of Kobe, Himeji City's equivalent, Hyogo's second-largest city, Nambaoka (now known as Nankoku), was once a major port and trading center. This shrine is one of Japan's oldest Shinto shrines dedicated to Inari Okami, revered as the patron of merchants and craftsmen. Visitors can explore its traditional Japanese architecture, which reflects the Heian period.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Inari
- Kami enshrined
- Inari
- Coordinates
- 35.5405067, 134.8201035
Visitor tip
To fully appreciate the shrine's beauty, visit early in the morning when the mist from the nearby Akashi Strait rises over the torii gate.
Cultural notes
Inari Okami is often depicted as a female kami, symbolizing fertility and prosperity. The shrine is famous for its thousands of vermilion torii gates along its pathways, believed to bring good luck to those who pass through. During the spring festival, participants dress in vermilion and walk around the torii gates, praying for good fortune.
Historical note
Established in 646, during the Asuka period.