Located in the heart of Kawagoe, Saitama Prefecture, Indahashinja (Inari) Shrine is one of Japan's most famous Shinto shrines. Dedicated to Inari Okami, the Shinto god of rice, fertility, and prosperity, the shrine boasts an impressive vermilion torii gate and thousands of vermilion fox statues called 'komachi' to honor the deity's reverence for the rice industry.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Inari
- Kami enshrined
- Inari
- Coordinates
- 35.928875, 139.6749018
Visitor tip
To fully experience the shrine's grandeur, visit during Cherry Blossom Season (March-April) and participate in the traditional 'Omisoka' New Year's bell-ringing ceremony at midnight.
Cultural notes
Inari Shrine is famous for its unique fox statues, which are believed to be omens of good fortune. The shrine also hosts an annual autumn festival called 'Kawagoe Autumn Leaves Festival', where visitors can admire the vibrant fall foliage amidst traditional performances and food stalls.
Historical note
Founded in 644 AD by Prince Tamenokamari, a member of the Imperial Family of Japan.