How about ascending approximately 500 steps through 120 vermillion torii gates? That’s what awaits us at Shugyoku Inari Shrine. It is a subsidiary shrine of Toshogu Shrine. Toshogu Shrine was dedicated at the peak of Mt. Futaba around 300 years ago. This was during the Genroku Era.
Shugyoku Inari Shrine has been known as “Kinko Inari Ogami” for a long time. It’s revered for its divine authority. People believe in its power for business prosperity. They also seek household safety and wish fulfillment here.
Inari shrines are common in Japan. They are dedicated to Inari. Inari is a composite deity. This deity combines the fox spirit and gods of agriculture. It also includes the goddess of foodstuff, Uka no Mitama. Inari is one of the most widely venerated kami in Shinto religion.
Foxes are considered messengers of Inari. Statues of foxes are common at Inari shrines. These foxes are often depicted holding a key, scroll, or jewel. The color red is significant at Inari shrines. Vermillion gates ward off evil. Palaces, temples, and shrines were often painted this bright color. The vermillion originally used contained mercury. This served to preserve the wood.
Shugyoku Inari Shrine attracts numerous visitors. They come from all around Hiroshima. They visit on the 1st and 15th of every month. Tsukinamisai is the monthly festival. It is held on the 1st and 15th of each month. Shunki Taisai is the Spring Grand Festival on April 1st. Nagashi Matsuri is the Summer Festival on August 1st. Shuki Taisai is the Autumn Grand Festival on November 1st.
Visiting Shugyoku Inari Shrine offers a unique experience. The climb through the torii gates is memorable. It is a testament to the enduring beliefs surrounding Inari. Shugyoku Inari Shrine is a place for reflection and connection. It is a place to connect with the spiritual heart of Hiroshima.