Located in Akita Prefecture, the Inari Shrine is one of Japan's most famous Shinto shrines dedicated to the god of rice, Inari Okami. The shrine's complex network of vermilion torii gates and thousands of small shrines, each enshrining a different manifestation of Inari, is renowned for its beauty and spiritual significance. Visitors can explore the shrine's many paths, climb through the gates, and pray for good fortune, prosperity, and fertility.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Inari Okami
- Kami enshrined
- Inari, Fūjin, Raijin
- Coordinates
- 39.9030473, 139.9434458
Visitor tip
To avoid waiting in long lines, consider visiting the shrine early in the morning or later in the evening when the sun is not directly overhead.
Cultural notes
Inari Shrine is closely tied to rice production and agriculture in Akita Prefecture. During the New Year (Oshogatsu), families visit the shrine to pray for a bountiful harvest, and during the Spring Equinox (Shunbun no Hi), devotees climb through the gates to purify themselves.
Historical note
The shrine was rebuilt in 1781 after an earthquake destroyed the original structure.