Located in Kanazawa, Ishikawa Prefecture, the Inari Shrine is one of Japan's oldest and most famous Shinto shrines, dedicated to the god of rice, fertility, and prosperity. The shrine complex features thousands of vermilion torii gates, symbolizing the connection between heaven and earth. Visitors can explore the shrines' winding paths, adorned with prayer offerings and statues of Inari Okami.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Inari Okami
- Kami enshrined
- Inari Okami
- Coordinates
- 35.5176962, 136.7295914
Visitor tip
To avoid crowds, visit the shrine during the week or early morning to take part in the serene morning ceremony ( Matsuri) where participants tie red strings with their wishes on the gates.
Cultural notes
Inari Shrine is famous for its many fox statues, which are believed to be the messengers of Inari Okami. According to legend, a young priestess discovered a cache of sacred rice grains in the shrine and as a reward was granted the power to communicate with the gods through her favorite animal, the fox.
Historical note
Founded in 718 CE, the shrine has been a major center for Shinto worship and fertility rituals.