Yutoku Inari Shrine

Overview

Yutoku Inari Shrine is located in Kashima City, Saga Prefecture, and is also known as Nishi-Nikko. Founded in 1687, its origins trace back to Man Kohhime, the wife of the first lord of the Kashima domain, Naomasa Nabeshima. She was the daughter of Sadayoshi Hanazonoin, a grandchild of Emperor Go-Yōzei, and received a sacred mirror of the Inari deity from her father. Upon marrying, she brought a sacred spirit from Fushimi Inari Shrine, a renowned imperial prayer site, and established the shrine on Ishikabeyama mountain. She personally served the deity, later achieving enlightenment through fasting and gaining renown for her spiritual power, leading to the shrine's name, Yutoku Inari Shrine. Today, it's counted among Japan's Three Great Inari Shrines alongside Fushimi Inari Taisha and Kasama Inari Shrine, attracting three million visitors annually as a powerful spiritual spot. The highlight is undoubtedly the vermillion gate, modeled after the Yomeimon gate of Nikko Toshogu Shrine, its grandeur truly awe-inspiring. The main hall sits atop a hill, offering breathtaking views of the grounds. The path leading from the gate to the main hall is lined with numerous red torii gates, creating a mystical atmosphere. Yutoku Inari Shrine is said to offer blessings for various aspects of life, including business prosperity, family well-being, bountiful harvests, and protection from evil. Come and offer your prayers.