Located in the heart of Aomori city, 柳町新道稲荷神社 is a historic Shinto shrine dedicated to the god of rice and fertility, Inari Okami. The shrine's current structure dates back to the 17th century, although it is believed that the site has been used for religious purposes since the Nara period. Visitors can admire the shrine's traditional architecture, featuring a five-story pagoda and several wooden structures. On the first Saturday of every May, locals gather at the shrine for a festive rice-throwing ceremony, known as 'tsukimi no tsuru,' to celebrate the arrival of spring.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Inari Okami
- Kami enshrined
- Inari Okami
- Coordinates
- 40.2051689, 140.0216123
Visitor tip
To avoid long lines, visit the shrine early in the morning or later in the evening when possible.
Cultural notes
Inari Okami is revered as the patron deity of farmers and artisans. At the shrine, visitors can see several fox statues, believed to be manifestations of Inari's sacred fox spirits, known as ' Kitsune'.
Historical note
The shrine was rebuilt in 1665 after being destroyed during the Genroku era.