Beneath the gaze of Inari, god of rice and prosperity, lies Fushimi Inari-taisha. It is Kyoto’s most important Shinto shrine. But have you ever wondered what makes this shrine so special?
Fushimi Inari Taisha is the head shrine of Inari. People of all ages frequent its nearly thirty thousand affiliated shrines. The deity was first enshrined here in 711 AD. For over 1300 years, people have gathered here to pray. They pray for bountiful harvests, business prosperity, and family safety.
Now, let’s delve deeper into its history. Legend says a rice cake became a swan. The swan landed on a mountain peak. Rice grew there. This led to enshrining Inari Okami, the god of rice. That was the start of Fushimi Inari Taisha.
The shrine gained imperial patronage during the Heian Period. It was elevated to the highest rank for Shinto shrines in 942. The main shrine structure was built in 1499.
What stands out most about Fushimi Inari-taisha? The thousands of vermilion torii gates. Each gate was donated by a business or individual. They hope for good luck and fortune. The donor’s name is inscribed on the back of each gate. This creates the Senbon Torii. It gives the impression of a vibrant red tunnel.
The custom of donating a torii began in the Edo period. People donate to have a wish come true. They also donate in gratitude for a wish that came true. There are around 800 torii gates along the main path. Some say there are ten thousand gates in total.
Foxes or kitsune are also important here. They are seen as messengers of the gods. Many statues of foxes stand across the shrine grounds. Some hold keys in their mouths. These are keys to the rice granaries. The foxes protect them.
The shrine has five enshrined deities. They are responsible for a good harvest. Fushimi Inari Taisha overcame many difficulties. The Onin War caused severe damage. The shrine was burned to the ground. The Meiji Restoration saw the government confiscate its land.
Despite these challenges, Fushimi Inari Taisha persevered. It reclaimed its land and was restored. Today, it is one of Kyoto’s most popular destinations.
Before you leave Fushimi Inari-taisha, remember the Omokaru Stones. These stones test whether your wish will be fulfilled. If the stone feels lighter than expected, your wish will be granted. If it feels heavier, your wish may not be granted. As you exit the gates of Fushimi Inari-taisha, carry with you the blessings of Inari. May your path be filled with prosperity and good fortune.