Sugama Inari Shrine in Nagano Prefecture is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the god of rice and fertility, Inari Okami. The shrine's architecture reflects the traditional Japanese style of hirajiriso, with a wooden torii gate and a simple stone temple building. Visitors can explore the inner courtyards and see the numerous vermilion torii gates that line the approach to the shrine. The shrine is particularly famous for its beautiful autumn foliage.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Inari Okami
- Kami enshrined
- Inari Okami
- Coordinates
- 36.6539467, 138.1809327
Visitor tip
Bring a small gift of sake or sweets to leave at the shrine's main torii gate, and then make a wish by tying it to the gate's vermilion ropes.
Cultural notes
Sugama Inari Shrine is closely associated with the mythology of Inari Okami, who is said to have been a rice god. The shrine also celebrates the annual Autumn Leaves Festival (Koyo Matsuri) in October, which attracts visitors from all over Japan.
Historical note
The shrine was established in the Heian period (794-1185 CE) during the rule of Emperor Kamo no Hiraakiraboshi, a member of the imperial family known as the Hiraakiraboshi clan.