Yutoku Inari Shrine (Kyushu, Japan)

by Allan See Toh on October 19, 2024 with No Comments

Yutoku Inari Shrine in Saga Prefecture is one of Japan’s most important Inari shrines, renowned for its striking red architecture and hillside setting. The shrine offers stunning views and attracts many visitors seeking blessings and tranquillity. Join us in exploring Yutoku Inari Shrine!

Date visited: Nov-2023

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Yutoku Inari Shrine 祐徳稲荷神社 (Kyushu, Japan) (Google Map)

Yutoku Inari Shrine is considered one of Japan’s top three shrines dedicated to Inari (remember Kyoto’s Fushimi Inari?). The Shinto god of Inari is primarily known as the protector of rice cultivation. The god also furthers prosperity and is worshipped by merchants. Visitors often come to pray for success in business and personal prosperity.

Founded in 1687, the shrine is built into the steep hillside of a valley near Kashima City, Saga Prefecture.

The shrine is renowned for its vibrant red architecture, set against the lush backdrop of a forested mountain. Perched on 18m tall wooden stilts, the main shrine offers stunning views of the valley below. Its vivid vermilion torii gates stand out beautifully in all seasons, especially during cherry blossom and autumn foliage.

Inari Ōkami (稲荷大神)

Inari is a prominent deity in Shinto, the indigenous religion of Japan, revered as the god of rice, prosperity, fertility, and agriculture. Associated with foxes (kitsune), who serve as messengers, Inari is worshiped at over 30,000 shrines across Japan, including the famous Fushimi Inari Taisha in Kyoto. Inari’s influence extends beyond agriculture, encompassing wealth, trade, and even the protection of warriors.