四塚稲荷神社, located in Gunma Prefecture, is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the rice-giving kami Inari. The name '四塚' translates to 'four pillar shrine', referring to its architectural style which dates back to the Edo period. The shrine's design features four pillars supporting the main hall, a characteristic of traditional Japanese architecture.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Inari
- Kami enshrined
- Inari, Other regional kami associated with agriculture and fertility
- Coordinates
- 35.9252201, 139.4806188
Visitor tip
Visitors can make an offering of rice at the shrine's main counter to ensure a bountiful harvest and good fortune.
Cultural notes
Inari is often depicted as a fox or a kami with multiple arms, symbolizing fertility and abundance. The shrine celebrates the Inari Matsuri festival in May, where devotees carry yellow straw baskets filled with rice to honor the deity.
Historical note
The shrine was established during the Edo period (1603-1868) and has undergone several renovations and expansions since then.