Hamakawa Shrine, located in the town of Katsuura, Chiba Prefecture, is a Shinto shrine dedicated to Inari Okami, the kami of rice and industry. The shrine is known for its beautiful autumn foliage and traditional architecture. Visitors can explore the inner shrine's torii gate and learn about the history of the shrine and its significance in local culture.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Inari Okami
- Kami enshrined
- Inari, Kamui
- Coordinates
- 35.5928172, 139.7370654
Visitor tip
To make the most of your visit, consider attending one of the shrine's autumn leaf viewing events (koyo) in November, which offer a unique opportunity to see the shrine's beautiful foliage amidst traditional Japanese festivals and food stalls.
Cultural notes
As an Inari Shrine, Hamakawa Shrine is famous for its vermilion torii gates, which are often covered in prayer papers (emaki) tied with ribbons. These emaki are collected and used to make rice paper lanterns, a traditional craft practiced by local artisans.
Historical note
The shrine was originally built in 1188 during the Kamakura period, but it has undergone significant renovations over the centuries.