Located in the city ofOkayama, Upper Commander Shrine Eight-Band God Shrine is dedicated to Inari Okami, the Shinto god of fertility, prosperity, and agriculture. The shrine's eight bands refer to a historical period when eight daimyos (feudal lords) united under the command of Yamato no Oe no Yasumori, who later became the founder of the Imperial House of Japan. Visitors can explore the shrine's traditional architecture and grounds, which include a large torii gate and various shrines dedicated to other kami. The shrine is famous for its fox statues, known as Inari Okami no Kitsune, which are believed to bring good fortune and prosperity.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Inari Okami
- Kami enshrined
- Inari Okami, Yamato no Oe no Yasumori
- Coordinates
- 34.5751583, 133.4132886
Visitor tip
To experience the shrine's full beauty, visit at dawn or dusk when the golden light illuminates the torii gate and surrounding gardens.
Cultural notes
Inari Okami is also associated with the mythology of the fox spirit Kitsune, which is said to possess supernatural powers and wisdom. During the annual Higan festival in September, visitors can participate in a ritual where they pray for good fortune and prosperity by tying small paper bags with prayer wishes to a wooden beam.
Historical note
The shrine was built in 1869, during the late Edo period, after the unification of Japan under the Meiji Restoration.