Fushimi-Inari Taisha

The head shrine of the Inari Shrines, with its rows of vermilion-lacquered torii gates

This is the head shrine of the approximately 30,000 Inari shrines across the country, and is said to have been founded in 711. Statues of foxes, which are said to be messengers of the Inari god, can be seen throughout the grounds, and the shrine is bustling with worshippers throughout the year, praying for prosperity in business and safety for their families.

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  In front of the tower gate stands a statue of the two foxes, A and Un, holding a jewel in its right mouth and a key in its left mouth.

• Check!

  The Motomiya Festival is usually held on the first Sunday or public holiday after the start of the summer solstice in July. The Manto Shinji ritual held the night before is also a sight to behold.

• Official website