Inusa Inari Shrine, located in the town of Honjo in Gunma Prefecture, is one of Japan's oldest and most famous Shinto shrines dedicated to the rice goddess Inari Okami. The shrine is renowned for its beautiful architecture and vibrant festivals, particularly during autumn when thousands gather to pray for good harvests and prosperity. Visitors can walk through the tranquil gardens and admire the numerous vermilion torii gates that line the pathways, creating a stunning visual effect.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Inari
- Kami enshrined
- Inari, Okami
- Coordinates
- 36.3565591, 139.0692545
Visitor tip
To fully experience the shrine's tranquility, consider visiting at dawn or dusk when the vermilion torii gates are bathed in soft golden light.
Cultural notes
Inusa Inari Shrine is closely associated with the mythology of rice cultivation and fertility. The shrine's primary deity, Inari Okami, is often depicted as a horned god, symbolizing abundance and prosperity. During autumn festivals, devotees offer sweets called 'daifuku' filled with sweetened red bean paste to the shrine maidens, who then distribute them to the crowd.
Historical note
Established in 711 CE during the Nara period, making it one of Japan's oldest Shinto shrines.