The Inari Shrine, located in Kanazawa, Ishikawa Prefecture, is one of Japan's most famous Shinto shrines. Dedicated to the deity of rice and fertility, Inari Okami is believed to have control over agriculture, prosperity, and good fortune. The shrine is renowned for its thousands of vermilion torii gates, which symbolize the connection between heaven and earth. Visitors often make offerings of ema (wooden prayer boards) with their names and wishes for rice, prosperity, or good luck.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Inari Okami
- Kami enshrined
- Inari, Fox spirit Inarikawa-onna
- Coordinates
- 35.4483195, 136.7134166
Visitor tip
To avoid lines, visit the shrine early in the morning or late in the evening to witness the most beautiful vermilion torii gates with golden accents.
Cultural notes
Inari is also associated with the legend of the fox spirit Inarikawa-onna, who was said to have been a devoted servant of the deity. The shrine's annual Omisoka (New Year's Eve) festival celebrates the purification of offerings and good luck for the coming year.
Historical note
The Inari Shrine was established in 747 AD during the Nara period, making it one of Japan's oldest shrines.