Located in Ebetsu, Hokkaido, 鵜泊稲荷神社 is a Shinto shrine dedicated to Inari Okami, the god of rice, fertility, and industry. The shrine's architecture reflects its historical significance as a sacred site for the indigenous Ainu people and its role as a major stop on the pilgrimage route from Hokkaido to Japan's mainland during the Edo period.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Inari Okami
- Kami enshrined
- Inari Okami
- Coordinates
- 42.3571509, 139.8025694
Visitor tip
To experience the shrine's unique charm, visit during the annual Matsuri festival in July, when participants dress up in traditional Ainu clothing and perform rituals to ensure the prosperity of agriculture and industry.
Cultural notes
As one of Japan's oldest shrines dedicated to Inari Okami, 鵜泊稲荷神社 is notable for its unique blend of Shinto and indigenous Ainu traditions. Visitors can observe the shrine's distinctive architectural style, which incorporates local materials such as wooden pillars and thatched roofs.
Historical note
The shrine was established in 1864, after it was discovered that Inari Okami had appeared to a local farmer who had requested his favor for a bountiful harvest.