Located in the city of Mito, Ibaraki Prefecture, Tamahime Inari Shrine is dedicated to the Shinto goddess Inari Okami, also known as Tamahime, who is revered as the patron deity of agriculture and fertility. The shrine's architecture reflects its historical significance, with a combination of traditional Heian-period (794-1185 CE) and Kamakura-period (1185-1333 CE) elements. Visitors can explore the shrine's main hall, which features a beautiful tile-roofed structure adorned with cherry blossoms and wisteria.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Inari Okami (Tamahime)
- Kami enshrined
- Inari, Okami, Tamahime
- Coordinates
- 35.7269353, 139.8023283
Visitor tip
To fully appreciate the shrine's beauty, consider visiting during the spring cherry blossom season (March-April) or autumn foliage season (November-December).
Cultural notes
Tamahime Inari Shrine is known for its connection to the Shinto myth of Tamahime, a goddess who wept tears that became the rice fields in Japan. The shrine's main hall also features a unique torii gate, which was built during the Kamakura period.
Historical note
The shrine was originally built in 757 CE during the Nara period, making it one of the oldest shrines in Ibaraki Prefecture.