Located in the heart of Hyogo Prefecture,山森大明神 (Mount Forest Great Shrine) is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the enshrined deity Inari Okami. The shrine is situated at the foot of Mount Forest, a scenic forest filled with over 600 species of trees, and is said to be the site where the great hero Sanemori no Sakaizumi defeated the invading Genji forces during the Heian period.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Inari Okami
- Kami enshrined
- Inari, Okami
- Coordinates
- 34.6478111, 134.9837139
Visitor tip
Visit during cherry blossom season for a picturesque view of the forest, or try some delicious local food from the nearby market stalls.
Cultural notes
As an Inari shrine, the shrine is famous for its thousands of vermillion torii gates leading to the main hall, said to symbolize the enshrined deity's abundance and prosperity. The shrine also celebrates the annual Sakaizumi no Matsuri festival in August, commemorating the hero's victory.
Historical note
Founded in the late Heian period (12th century),