Inari Okura Shrine, located in Ibaraki Prefecture, is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the god of rice and fertility, Inari Okura. As one of the oldest shrines in Japan, it is steeped in history and mythology. The shrine's architecture is characteristic of traditional Japanese design, with a large torii gate and a distinctive forested area known as 'inari' where visitors can make offerings to the kami.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Inari
- Kami enshrined
- Inari
- Coordinates
- 35.8754393, 139.9162517
Visitor tip
When visiting Inari Okura Shrine, be sure to remove your shoes before entering the main hall and make a small offering of money or incense to the kami at one of the many designated boxes along the forested path.
Cultural notes
This shrine is particularly notable for its association with the mythology of the rice goddess Inari Okami, who is said to have taken on human form as a young woman and was married to a mortal man. According to legend, Inari Okami's story is told in the famous Japanese epic 'The Tale of the Heike', which recounts her tragic fate.
Historical note
Founded during the Nara period (710-794 CE), Inari Okura Shrine has been an important center for Shinto worship and rituals for over 1,200 years.