Located in the Settsu region of Hyogo Prefecture, Munakata Shrine is a historic Shinto shrine dedicated to Inari Ōkami, the god of rice, fertility, and prosperity. The shrine's architecture reflects its Edo-period origins, with a large torii gate and a traditional rectangular hall housing the main shrine. The shrine complex also features several smaller shrines and sacred trees, believed to possess spiritual powers.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Inari Ōkami
- Kami enshrined
- Inari, Ōkami
- Coordinates
- 35.4941099, 134.2564831
Visitor tip
For visitors looking to make a special offering, try purchasing a pack of rice balls (chicken or beef) at one of the many food stalls outside the shrine, then burn them as an incense at the torii gate in gratitude.
Cultural notes
Munakata Shrine is famous for its unique spring water, believed to possess medicinal properties. According to local legend, Inari Ōkami once healed a local villager who was suffering from leprosy by bathing him in sacred water from this very spring.
Historical note
The shrine was originally founded in the 17th century during the Edo period and has since been rebuilt and renovated numerous times.