A–Z directory

松本稲荷大明神

Japanese Name松本稲荷大明神
PrefectureTochigi
ReligionShinto
Primary DeityInari Okami
Coordinates36.2710329, 139.4473383

⛩ AI-enriched content

About this Shrine

Located in the city of Utsunomiya, Tochigi Prefecture, Matsuboshi Inari Taisha is one of Japan's oldest and most revered Shinto shrines, dedicated to the kami Inari Okami. The shrine is famous for its beautiful vermilion torii gate and intricate wooden structures, which evoke a sense of serenity and harmony with nature. Visitors can explore the many paths leading up to the main hall, each representing different aspects of human endeavor and virtue.

Cultural Significance

Matsuboshi Inari Taisha is closely associated with the legend of Matsuo Bashō, the famous Japanese poet who is said to have written 'The Narrow Road to the Deep North' while visiting the shrine. The shrine also hosts an annual festival in late April, celebrating the arrival of spring and the kami's blessings for a bountiful harvest.

Enshrined Deities

Inari Okami

Location

Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors

Spot an error?

This shrine data is sourced from OpenStreetMap. You can submit a correction or edit it on OpenStreetMap.

Shrine data © OpenStreetMap contributors, under the Open Database License.

Quick Facts

  • Religion: Shinto

⛩ Visitor Tip

Visit the shrine during cherry blossom season (late March to early April) for a stunning display of sakura trees lining the paths leading up to the main hall.

History

The shrine's history dates back to the 8th century, when it was first mentioned in historical records as Matsuboshi Inari Okami, a deity revered by the local population for his association with fertility and prosperity.

A-Z Creatures
Learn Japanese

Japanese Culture Network

Japanese Wood Joints

Ancient joinery techniques of Japanese master craftsmen

ShrinePuzzle

Directory of Japanese board games and traditional games

Kohibou

Japanese coffee culture — kissaten, third wave and brewing guides

E2Japan

Explore Japan's landmarks, shrines and hidden locations

The 725 Club

SNES and Super Famicom collection tracker

Spaceship Adventures

Hoshi no Isan — a Japanese-aesthetic space RPG in development

Japan In Pixels

A pixel art map of Japanese culture — coming 2027

CSSKitsune

Japanese-aesthetic design tokens & AI-ready UI prompts

Shinto Wisdom app icon
Free App · No Ads · Offline

Shinto Wisdom Daily Practice

by 10k Game Studio

Every day, one teaching. One moment of stillness.
Kanji, meaning, and a quiet reflection — rooted in the philosophy behind Japan's forests, seasons, and sacred silences.

結び Musubi 清め Harae 自然 Shizen 間 Ma 誠 Makoto + 45 more
Get it on Google Play

Content Warning: This website explores Japanese folklore and mythological beings—including yokai, oni, and other supernatural entities—that may be frightening to younger audiences or sensitive viewers. All material is presented for educational and cultural appreciation only. Viewer discretion is advised.

Parents and guardians are encouraged to preview content before sharing it with children. By continuing to use JapaneseMythicalCreatures.com, you acknowledge and accept this advisory.

Copyright © 2026 Japanese Mythical Creatures • All Rights Reserved.