02‏/10‏/2014

Yūtoku Inari Shrine

Japan's third largest shrine to the god of prosperity

By Bradford Pomeroy

Community writer

The main entrance to Yūtoku Inari Shrine is an impressive, majestic structure that really sets the tone for your visit.

In front of the shrine there are ponds filled with massive koi (carp) that you can feed or just admire.

The striking vermilion colors against the green backdrop is a very powerful and beautiful sight.

As you make your way up among the various shrines, the colors change and begin to appear more weathered over time.

As you travel along the path, don't get so swept up in the beauty and antiquity that you lose stability. This photo is an example of how narrow the pathway can get. At this point, there is no railing to support you if you fall, so take care!

A shot looking down at the vast array of torii that dominate many of the pathways.

This is a large, carved Furyumen mask. These masks are an important cultural asset to Saga and are utilized by specific participants in various harvest rituals. You will see one at Saga Station as well.

A march of torii that you will pass under as you make your way along the various sites within the shrine.

You will notice a very distinct contrast in terrain. For the lower half of the shrine, you will navigate even steps equipped with hand-rails, but as evident in this picture, the topography changes into very sharp steps and rarely any support. It's a lot of fun, but please be careful at this point.

Clusters of torii can be found almost everywhere you look.

One of the many beautiful views you will see as you continue to make your way to the summit.

A gorgeous view of the mountainous terrain from the main balcony.

This is not your average hike up a hill. These successions of torii and the many smaller shrines and statues that show up during your trek convey a sacred and historic atmosphere.

After your visit, you'll find this shopping area on your way out. Stock up on all kinds of Japanese souvenirs such as local pottery and masks.

The Yūtoku Inari Shrine in Kashima City, Saga Prefecture, is the third largest Inari shrine in Japan. Strikingly majestic, it looks like something you would more commonly find in Kyoto or Nara. Perhaps this is not surprising considering that a princess from Kyoto, Manko Hime, had the shrine built in 1688 to honor Inari, the god of prosperity (as well as rice, tea, and sake). This is truly worth the trip if you are living in or spending any time in Saga Prefecture. There's a lot to take in, so reserve at least an entire day for your trip.

Things to Do in Saga

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Bradford Pomeroy

By Bradford Pomeroy

Community writer

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