The Inari Shrine in Hyogo Prefecture is one of Japan's most famous Shinto shrines, dedicated to the worship of Inari Okami, the god of rice, fertility, and prosperity. The shrine is particularly renowned for its thousands of vermilion torii gates that form a tunnel up the mountain, said to represent the fox spirits (kitsune) that are believed to serve Inari.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Inari
- Kami enshrined
- Inari
- Coordinates
- 35.2503696, 134.7255812
Visitor tip
To avoid long lines, visit the shrine early in the morning or late in the evening when the streets are less crowded.
Cultural notes
Inari is often depicted with foxes and rice fields, symbolizing fertility and prosperity. The shrine's famous fox spirits are believed to bring good luck and fortune to those who make offerings.
Historical note
The shrine was originally built in the Nara period (710-794 CE), but its current structure dates back to the Kamakura period (1185-1333 CE).