Are you eyeing Japan for your next vacation? Why not, right? When traveling to Asia, Japan would definitely be one of the top choices. Being a first world country, it has too many good reviews of many tourist attractions. Moreover, the Japanese history and culture is just something people are interested about. From natural resources to technology, Japan has precisely a lot to offer to the visitors.
- Location
The Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine is situated in southern Kyoto. When you visit the city, don’t miss the Shrine as it is a top tourist destination anyone should not miss. Fret not, entrance to the site is totally free. The Shrine stands firmly at the base of Inari Mountain at 233 meters above sea level. Numerous smaller shrines are found all throughout the mountain. Reaching the top would require at least 2 hours hike. Anyway, you may opt not to finish your walk. You will still get a great view of the place.
- Torii gates
A torii gate symbolizes the entrance to a Shinto Shrine. Here, there are not only hundreds of it, but rather thousands. It is dramatically colored orange with some parts already faded. Each torii are donated by private companies with its names imprinted on it. This is somehow their offer to Inari, amounting 400,000 to 1 million yen. This is their way of thanking their deities for their prosperity and abundance as well as hoping for good fortune in the future.
- Inari
So, you’re probably wondering who Inari is? Inari is known as the Shinto god of rice, merchants, and manufacturing. He is greatly honored by the Japanese because they believe that he brings success in business and wealth as well. The top most shrine is flocked by people who wish to have private worship.
- Kitsune
The red foxes (kitsune) serve as messengers to Inari. They are found all throughout the stretch. Furthermore, a fox holding a key in its mouth greets you at the main gate of the Shrine. On other areas, foxes come in pairs. One fox is the same at the entrance while the other holds a sacred jewel in its mouth. Fox sculpture, fox fountain and fox altar are all established in the place. Definitely worth a souvenir photo!
- Food
Fried tofu is said to be the favorite food of the kitsune. You may actually buy it in the food stalls and offer it to them. They’d be delighted, for sure! Another popular meal in the mountains is the kitsune udon noodle soup with fried tofu. Try it! You’d definitely love it!
- Ceremony
On June 10 every year, rice planting ceremony is conducted in the grounds of the Shrine. Rice is an essential part of Japanese culture. They sort of assure the continuity of the cycle from planting and preparing to the harvesting of the rice. On November 8, another ceremony is held signifying the blessings of the gods to the whole nation’s rice cultivation