A–Z directory

桜谷稲荷神社

Japanese Name桜谷稲荷神社
PrefectureShiga
ReligionShinto
Primary DeityInari Okami
Coordinates34.9943361, 135.9116125

⛩ AI-enriched content

About this Shrine

Located in the picturesque town of Hikone, Shiga Prefecture, Shirakawa Inari Shrine is a revered Shinto site dedicated to the rice goddess Inari Okami. The shrine's name, 'Shirakawa,' roughly translates to 'white river' or 'white stream,' which may refer to the nearby rivers and streams that once flowed through the area. As one of Japan's oldest Inari shrines, Shirakawa Inari Shrine has been an important site for centuries, with its primary function being the worship and protection of rice fields and agricultural fertility.

Cultural Significance

Shirakawa Inari Shrine is known for its unique architecture, which features a distinctive white-painted main hall and a large torii gate that marks the entrance to the shrine. According to local legend, during the Edo period, the shrine's priest was said to have used sacred rice grains to make a protective charm against evil spirits. Today, visitors can still see this charm on display at the shrine.

Enshrined Deities

Inari Okami Amaterasu Omikami

Location

Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors

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Quick Facts

  • Religion: Shinto

⛩ Visitor Tip

To make the most of your visit, consider visiting early morning or late evening when the sun's light creates beautiful shadows on the shrine's torii gates.

History

Founded during the 8th century, this shrine is believed to have been originally built as a Shinto shrine dedicated to Amaterasu Omikami, but was later enshrined with Inari Okami in the Edo period.

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