Last updated：
Vermilion torii gates and white foxes—.
A sight that every Japanese person has encountered at least once. Perhaps you recall visiting an Inari shrine as a child, guided by your parents, or spotting a small shrine tucked away in a quiet alley or on the corner of a company building.
Yes, Inari shrines are a familiar yet deeply special part of daily life in Japan.
Amazingly, there are about 30,000 Inari shrines across Japan, making them the most numerous type of shrine in the country. But why have so many Inari shrines spread across the nation, and why have they been cherished for centuries?
And why do Inari shrines feature vermilion torii gates and fox statues? Why are they affectionately called “Oinari-san”?
Inari shrines reflect the deep-rooted connection between Japanese faith and daily life. From agriculture to business prosperity and even modern-day blessings, they have continually evolved to meet the needs of the people.
In this article, we will explore the history of Inari shrines, famous locations nationwide, proper worship etiquette, and the profound mysteries they hold.
Step through the vermilion gates and enter the mystical world of Inari shrines with us.
How did Inari shrines originate and spread throughout Japan? Let’s take a brief look at their history.
Starting with the establishment of Fushimi Inari Taisha in 711, Inari shrines gradually spread throughout Japan. During the Heian Period, they gained prominence among the aristocracy and merged with Buddhist traditions. The Kamakura Period saw warriors worshiping Inari for battle success, and by the Edo Period, merchants and townspeople embraced Inari as a guardian of prosperity, making “Oinari-san” a household name.
Through these historical shifts, Inari shrines have remained deeply embedded in Japanese culture, continually evolving to reflect the changing needs of the people.
Among Japan’s 30,000 Inari shrines, the most revered and significant is Fushimi Inari Taisha in Kyoto, the head shrine of all Inari shrines. Established in 711, it attracts visitors from across Japan and the world seeking blessings for business success and abundant harvests.
The most iconic feature of Fushimi Inari Taisha is its Senbon Torii, or “Thousand Torii Gates.” This stunning corridor of vermilion gates creates a mystical atmosphere and is one of the most photographed locations in Japan.
These torii gates have been donated over generations by worshippers whose prayers were answered. The number of gates has steadily increased over time, forming an unbroken path leading deep into the sacred grounds.
Beyond the famous torii gates, Fushimi Inari Taisha extends across the entire Inari mountain. Various smaller shrines and sacred sites are scattered along the pilgrimage route, culminating at the Ichinomine peak, a well-known power spot where visitors seek even greater divine blessings.
Fushimi Inari Taisha is consistently ranked among the top tourist destinations in Japan by foreign visitors. Its appeal goes beyond historical significance—it captivates people with its breathtaking scenery and otherworldly ambiance.
Read more about Fushimi Inari Taisha
Among the 30,000 Inari shrines across Japan, a select few are regarded as the most prestigious and highly venerated. These are known as the “Three Great Inari Shrines of Japan” (Nihon Sandai Inari). However, unlike some other shrine rankings, there is no fixed definition, and the list varies depending on the source.
While Fushimi Inari Taisha is undisputed as the head shrine, the other two spots differ based on regional traditions and historical records. Here are three shrines commonly mentioned as part of the “Three Great Inari Shrines”:
Located in Toyokawa City, Aichi Prefecture, Toyokawa Inari is not actually a Shinto shrine but a Buddhist temple of the Soto Zen sect. Despite this, it serves as a major center for Inari worship, attracting believers from across Japan.
Toyokawa Inari is famous for granting business prosperity, making it particularly popular among merchants and companies. A striking feature is the Reiko-zuka, an area filled with countless fox statues, offered as tokens of gratitude for fulfilled prayers.
Located in Kasama City, Ibaraki Prefecture, Kasama Inari Shrine is one of the most prominent Shinto shrines in the Kanto region, attracting over 3.5 million worshippers annually. It is said to have been established in 651 AD, boasting over 1,300 years of history.
Each November, the shrine hosts the Kasama Chrysanthemum Festival, during which the grounds are adorned with beautifully arranged chrysanthemum flowers, a major draw for visitors.
As one of the most significant Inari shrines in eastern Japan, Kasama Inari Shrine holds a special place in the hearts of Kanto residents.
Situated in Kashima City, Saga Prefecture, Yutoku Inari Shrine is one of the largest Inari shrines in Kyushu, renowned for its extravagant architectural style. Founded in 1687, it has long been revered for granting prosperity in business and family safety.
The shrine’s main hall is built on a steep cliff using a terrace-like structure, similar to Kyoto’s Kiyomizu Temple. This unique architectural style, combined with the vivid vermilion coloring, creates a breathtaking view. From the shrine’s terrace, visitors can enjoy a panoramic view of the surrounding area.
Depending on the region or tradition, other Inari shrines are sometimes included in the Three Great Inari Shrines. Some notable examples include:
As seen above, the concept of Japan’s Three Great Inari Shrines is not fixed, and numerous regional Inari shrines hold immense spiritual significance. Regardless of ranking, the deep-rooted belief in Inari worship remains strong throughout Japan.
Japan is home to countless Inari shrines, each with its own distinctive history and characteristics. In this section, we introduce some particularly unique and intriguing Inari shrines that stand out from the rest.
Saijo Inari in Okayama City is a rare example of a Buddhist-affiliated Inari shrine. Officially named “Saijo Inariyama Myokyoji”, it is classified as a Buddhist temple rather than a Shinto shrine.
Image Source: Saijo Inari
Saijo Inari is the head temple of the Saijo Inari faith, which integrates elements of Nichiren Buddhism and Shinto worship. It is renowned for bringing prosperity in business, household safety, and protection from misfortune.
One of its most impressive features is the 27-meter-tall Grand Torii Gate, which welcomes visitors with an awe-inspiring presence.
The temple also features a stone Niomon Gate inspired by Indian architectural styles and a “Fortune Café” where monks provide guidance on improving one’s fortune. With its striking blend of Buddhist and Shinto traditions, Saijo Inari offers a uniquely spiritual experience.
Located in Aomori Prefecture, Takayama Inari Shrine is famous for its stunning thousand torii gates, which curve gracefully across the landscape, creating an enchanting atmosphere.
Each season brings a different spectacle:
Image Source: Takayama Inari Shrine - Aomori Tourism Official Site
As one of the most revered Inari shrines in the Tohoku region, it draws visitors seeking prosperity, agricultural blessings, and divine protection.
Nestled in the coastal cliffs of Nagato City, Yamaguchi Prefecture, Motonosumi Shrine features 123 vermilion torii gates stretching toward the Japan Sea, offering one of the most breathtaking landscapes in Japan.
The sight of the torii gates cascading down the cliffside, with the blue ocean as a backdrop, is nothing short of spectacular. On clear days, the deep blue sky enhances the surreal beauty of this location.
Motonosumi Shrine was recognized by CNN as one of “Japan’s 31 Most Beautiful Places”, solidifying its reputation as a must-visit scenic shrine.
Additionally, the shrine is famous for its 6-meter-tall offertory box, said to be “the hardest offering box to reach in Japan.” Visitors try to throw coins into the box for good luck—if successful, their wishes are believed to come true.
With its breathtaking coastal views and unique rituals, Motonosumi Shrine is one of Yamaguchi Prefecture’s most iconic spiritual destinations.
Image Source: Yanagimori Shrine | Visit Chiyoda - Tokyo Official Tourism Site
Located near Akihabara Station in Chiyoda Ward, Tokyo, Yanagimori Shrine stands out from other Inari shrines for one peculiar reason: it does not feature foxes, but raccoons as its divine messengers.
Yanagimori Shrine was founded in 1457 by Ota Dokan, the samurai who built Edo Castle. Originally dedicated to Inari, it was intended to protect Edo Castle’s northeastern direction, a spiritually significant location.
However, during the Edo period, the shrine became known for “Tanuki Daimyojin” (Great Raccoon Deity). This unusual shift is attributed to Keishoin, the mother of the fifth Tokugawa shogun, Tokugawa Tsunayoshi. She believed that her rise from humble origins to the mother of a shogun was an example of “Tanuki” (meaning “to surpass others”), leading to the shrine’s association with success, business prosperity, and safe childbirth.
Though compact in size, Yanagimori Shrine’s charming raccoon statues and unique historical background make it a delightful hidden gem in Tokyo.
The primary deity enshrined in Inari shrines is Uka-no-Mitama-no-Kami, a god deeply associated with abundant harvests and food production. The name “Uka” is derived from “Uke,” meaning food and sustenance, emphasizing the deity’s role in blessing agriculture, especially rice cultivation.
Uka-no-Mitama-no-Kami is mentioned in ancient Japanese texts such as the Kojiki (Records of Ancient Matters) and the Nihon Shoki (Chronicles of Japan) as a child of Izanagi and Izanami, the creator deities of Japan. However, the deity’s specific actions are rarely documented in myths.
Over time, Uka-no-Mitama-no-Kami became synonymous with agricultural worship, and the fusion of Shinto and Buddhist beliefs (Shinbutsu-shugo) led to its association with Dakiniten, a Buddhist deity often depicted riding a white fox. This blend of religious traditions helped spread Inari worship beyond farmers to merchants and craftsmen, expanding its influence.
During the Nara Period (8th century), Uka-no-Mitama-no-Kami was worshipped as a guardian of rice cultivation and gained recognition among nobles and the imperial court. The establishment of Fushimi Inari Taisha in 711 helped popularize Inari faith nationwide.
By the Heian Period (794–1185), Buddhist influences strengthened Inari worship, embedding it into everyday religious practices.
During the Kamakura Period (1185–1333), samurai began praying for victory in battle, viewing Inari as a deity of success.
By the Edo Period (1603–1868), the merchant class embraced Inari worship as a protector of business prosperity, leading to widespread household and commercial devotion.
Today, Uka-no-Mitama-no-Kami is revered not only as a god of agriculture but also as a universal deity who grants all kinds of wishes, making Inari shrines among the most visited in Japan.
With over 30,000 Inari shrines across Japan, Inari worship remains deeply ingrained in Japanese culture. Many businesses and shops have miniature Inari shrines on their premises, highlighting the deity’s continued importance in modern life.
Inari shrines have long played a crucial role in people’s lives, providing divine protection in various aspects of daily life. Originally revered as a god of rice cultivation, Inari has come to be associated with business prosperity, household safety, good fortune, and artistic success.
Uka-no-Mitama-no-Kami was initially worshipped as a deity of bountiful harvests, particularly during Japan’s agrarian society in the Nara Period (8th century).
Image Source: New York Public Library
As commerce flourished, Inari shrines became symbols of business success. By the Edo Period (17th–19th centuries), merchants and artisans widely prayed to Inari for financial prosperity, placing small shrines in their homes and workplaces.
Even today, many Japanese companies and shops maintain Inari shrines as a sign of gratitude and to seek continued success.
Beyond business, Inari shrines are also believed to safeguard families. Many people visit Inari shrines to pray for health, safety, and happiness within their homes.
Additionally, Inari is known for warding off misfortune and bringing good luck, making these shrines a popular destination for those seeking protection against bad omens.
Inari shrines have also been embraced by artists and performers who seek divine assistance in refining their craft. Many people in fields such as calligraphy, music, and theater pray at Inari shrines, as the faith is thought to nurture and enhance talent.
Inari shrines across Japan are commonly referred to as “Oinari-san” with affection and familiarity. But where does this name come from? Understanding its origin reveals the deep connection between Inari faith and Japanese culture.
The word “Inari (稲荷)” is believed to originate from “Ine-nari (稲生り),” meaning “rice growth.” Since rice has been the staple food in Japan for centuries, this name symbolizes a deity that ensures agricultural prosperity.
Additionally, the name of Uka-no-Mitama-no-Kami, the main deity of Inari shrines, is said to be derived from “Uka” (meaning food or sustenance). This suggests that the term “Oinari-san” is a respectful way of addressing a deity deeply tied to the everyday survival of the people.
Japanese culture has a tradition of adding “san” (さん) to names as a sign of respect or endearment. Similar examples include:
Because Inari shrines became widely loved by common people, the deity was affectionately called “Oinari-san”, reflecting both reverence and familiarity.
In the Edo Period (1603–1868), merchants and townspeople commonly had small Inari shrines in their homes and neighborhoods, further strengthening this personal connection.
The term “Oinari-san” is widely used across Japan, but some regions have different ways of referring to Inari shrines:
These variations highlight how deeply embedded Inari worship is in local cultures across Japan.
For many people, the name “Oinari-san” immediately brings to mind Inari Sushi—a popular dish made of sweetened fried tofu pockets filled with rice. But what is the connection between Inari shrines and this well-loved food?
Interestingly, regional differences exist in how Inari Sushi is shaped:
By the Edo Period, merchants and commoners across Japan believed that respecting Oinari-san would bring prosperity and success. Small Inari shrines became commonplace in cities, businesses, and even personal homes.
Furthermore, Oinari-san became a common theme in kabuki theater and rakugo storytelling, making it an even more familiar presence in everyday life.
Now, let’s explore the correct way to worship at an Inari shrine, including special customs unique to these sacred sites.
Like all Shinto shrines, Inari shrines have traditional worship manners. However, they also feature some unique customs that distinguish them from other shrines.
As with any shrine visit, worshippers must cleanse themselves before praying. This is done at the temizuya (water purification station).
Steps to properly cleanse yourself:
By following this process, you ensure spiritual and physical purity before worship.
Most Shinto shrines follow the “Two Bows, Two Claps, One Bow” (二礼二拍手一礼) prayer method. However, some Inari shrines use “Two Bows, Four Claps, One Bow” (二礼四拍手一礼).
This four-clap custom is said to originate from ancient Buddhist influences on Inari worship. Since customs may vary, it is best to check the specific rules of the shrine you visit.
Image Source: Taikodani Inari Shrine
A unique feature of Inari shrines is the custom of offering fried tofu and sake.
Although regular visitors don’t need to bring offerings, many larger shrines have designated offering spots, allowing people to participate in these traditions.
Many people receive amulets (omamori) and talismans (ofuda) after praying. Inari shrines offer special protective charms, often associated with:
At Fushimi Inari Taisha, a famous talisman called “Shirushi no Sugi” (しるしの杉) is offered. It originated from a Heian-era tradition where pilgrims would bring back a branch of cedar from the shrine as proof of their visit.
It is customary to place amulets in a high location at home or work, showing respect to the deity. Since their protective power is believed to last one year, old amulets should be returned to the shrine for proper disposal.
With so many shrines across Japan, how can you immediately recognize an Inari Shrine? Here are some defining features that set Inari shrines apart from others.
The most recognizable feature of Inari shrines is their vermilion torii gates. Particularly famous are the “Senbon Torii” (Thousand Torii Gates) at Fushimi Inari Taisha, where rows of vermilion gates create a mesmerizing pathway.
However, it’s important to note that:
While multiple torii gates in a row are a strong sign of an Inari shrine, other elements should be considered as well.
Another defining feature of Inari shrines is fox statues, known as the divine messengers (Kenzoku) of Inari. These foxes are often depicted holding different objects in their mouths, each symbolizing a unique meaning:
If you spot fox statues near the shrine’s entrance or altar, you can be almost certain it’s an Inari shrine.
The most obvious sign of an Inari shrine is if its name contains “Inari (稲荷).” However, some exceptions exist, such as Toyokawa Inari in Aichi, which is technically a Buddhist temple.
In addition to torii gates, many Inari shrine main halls and buildings are painted vermilion. Fushimi Inari Taisha and many other prominent Inari shrines use this color to symbolize spiritual protection and ward off evil.
That said, not all Inari shrines follow this pattern—some regional shrines retain a natural wooden appearance.
Inari shrines are known for blessings related to:
This is reflected in the types of ema (wooden prayer plaques) and amulets sold at these shrines. Common examples include:
By keeping an eye out for these features, you can easily recognize an Inari shrine wherever you travel in Japan.
With over 30,000 Inari shrines across Japan, each shrine carries its own unique history and significance. Whether you visit a grand shrine like Fushimi Inari Taisha or a small Inari shrine tucked away in a neighborhood, the experience of stepping through a vermilion gate into a sacred space is always special.
From the mystical Senbon Torii at Fushimi Inari, to the cliffside torii of Motonosumi Shrine, to the snowy beauty of Takayama Inari Shrine, every Inari shrine offers a unique glimpse into Japanese faith and tradition.
Throughout history, Inari faith has evolved to meet the changing needs of the people, from agricultural blessings to business prosperity and beyond. The affectionate name “Oinari-san” reflects how deeply Inari shrines are woven into everyday life, even influencing Japan’s food culture.
While famous Inari shrines attract many visitors, it’s worth remembering that smaller, local Inari shrines also hold deep significance. Even in modern cities, small shrines can be found within shopping districts or hidden in quiet alleyways, continuing to quietly watch over the daily lives of the people.
Exploring Inari shrines is a journey through Japan’s history, culture, and spiritual beliefs.
We encourage you to step through the vermilion torii gates and discover the mystical world of Inari shrines for yourself.
Who knows? Perhaps an unexpected blessing awaits you on the other side.
