Located in the heart of Kyoto, the Big River Shrine is a historic Shinto site dedicated to Inari Okami, the patron kami of rice and industry. Built during the Heian period (794-1185 CE), the shrine's architecture reflects its age, with a main hall constructed from Japanese cedar and a vermilion gate adorned with traditional carvings.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Inari Okami
- Kami enshrined
- Inari
- Coordinates
- 35.5516142, 135.1489424
Visitor tip
For a unique experience, visit early in the morning to witness the sacred bell ringing ceremony, which marks the beginning of the day.
Cultural notes
As a major Inari shrine, Big River Shrine is famous for its fox statues, called 'Inari foxes,' which are believed to serve as messengers between humans and the kami. During the annual autumn festival, visitors can participate in a traditional ceremony where rice is offered to the kami through the fox statues.
Historical note
The shrine was rebuilt after being destroyed by fire in 1869, during the Meiji Restoration.