Ashiya Inari Shrine, located in the town of Chikuhoku, Ibaraki Prefecture, is a Shinto shrine dedicated to Inari Okami, the kami of rice, fertility, and prosperity. The shrine's main hall, dedicated to Inari, features intricate wood carvings and a beautiful garden. Visitors can participate in the traditional 'grass swap' ritual, where they exchange old grass for new, symbolizing their wishes being carried up to the heavens.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Inari
- Kami enshrined
- Inari
- Coordinates
- 35.8116247, 139.7413105
Visitor tip
Visit the shrine during the annual Inari Matsuri festival in May, when thousands of participants carry a giant statue of Inari through the streets to pray for good harvests and prosperity.
Cultural notes
As a key location for the traditional 'grass swap' ritual, Ashiya Inari Shrine is deeply connected to Japanese agriculture and fertility traditions. The shrine's design also reflects Edo period architectural styles, featuring a characteristic hipped roof and sliding doors.
Historical note
Founded in 1632 by Tokugawa Iemasa, one of the five shoguns of the Edo period.