大井神社 is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the god of rice and fertility, located in the city of Kanazawa, Ishikawa Prefecture. The shrine's main hall dates back to the Heian period (794-1185 CE), with renovations made during the Kamakura period (1185-1333 CE). The shrine is famous for its beautiful garden, traditional architecture, and vibrant festivals celebrating the New Year and the Rice Viewing Festival.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Inari
- Kami enshrined
- Inari, Okami
- Coordinates
- 35.4380318, 136.6909019
Visitor tip
To fully appreciate the shrine's beauty, visit during cherry blossom season (March-April) or autumn foliage season (November-December), when the surrounding gardens are particularly stunning.
Cultural notes
The shrine is associated with the god of rice, Inari Okami, who is often depicted with a large belly and is said to bring prosperity and good harvests. The shrine also hosts an annual Rice Viewing Festival, where locals offer sake and food to the kami, expressing gratitude for the harvest.
Historical note
The shrine was originally built in 725 CE during the Nara period, but most of its current structures date back to the Heian and Kamakura periods.