Out-sei Inari Shrine, located in the heart of Minami-Nakano, Tokyo, is a revered Shinto temple dedicated to the rice goddess Inari Okami. As one of Japan's most prominent shrines, it attracts millions of visitors each year, particularly during the annual Festival of Lanterns (Tennōji Matsuri). The shrine complex includes numerous smaller shrines and torii gates, all connected by a serene network of tunnels and walkways. Visitors can explore these passageways to discover hidden shrines and pray for good luck, prosperity, and fertility.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Inari Okami
- Kami enshrined
- Inari, Okami
- Coordinates
- 35.5385219, 139.4513371
Visitor tip
To avoid long lines, consider visiting early in the morning or late in the evening when the sun is not shining directly onto the shrine.
Cultural notes
Inari Shrine is renowned for its distinctive red torii gates, symbolizing the goddess's association with rice. The shrine also hosts the 'Festival of Lanterns,' where thousands of paper lanterns illuminate the grounds, commemorating the shrine's importance in Japanese folklore.
Historical note
The shrine was originally founded in the Heian period (794-1185 CE) as the residence of a noble family.