Located in the historic city of Akita, the Ōgataji Inari Shrine is dedicated to two prominent kami: Inari Okami and Saigū Inari. These deities are revered for their association with agriculture, carpentry, and craftsmanship, reflecting the shrine's historical ties to the local community's woodworkers. The shrine complex features a beautiful vermilion torii gate and several shrines dedicated to various aspects of woodworking.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Inari Okami, Saigū Inari
- Kami enshrined
- Inari, Saigū
- Coordinates
- 39.3078542, 140.5685151
Visitor tip
Visit the shrine's carpentry museum to learn about traditional Japanese woodworking techniques and see examples of hand-carved wooden artifacts.
Cultural notes
Ōgataji Inari Shrine is closely tied to local folklore, particularly the legend of Saigū Inari, a kami said to possess the power to grant strength and luck to woodworkers. During the annual autumn festival (Matsuri), visitors can participate in traditional crafts, such as woodcarving and lacquerware-making.
Historical note
The shrine was originally built in 1598 during the Sengoku period as Inari Shrine, but it was later expanded into Ōgataji Inari Shrine in 1724.