Taikodani Inari Shrine

Taikodani Inari Shrine in Tsuwano Town, Shimane Prefecture, is one of the five great Inari shrines of Japan, set on a hill overlooking Tsuwano, a town that still keeps the air of a castle town. In the Edo period the lord of the Tsuwano domain invited the deity from Fushimi Inari in Kyoto to protect the castle and bring peace to the people, and the tunnel of vermilion torii gates lined along the approach overwhelms every visitor.

Highlights

- The vivid tunnel formed by countless vermilion torii gates along the approach - The view of the Tsuwano castle town and its rows of tiled roofs, seen from the hall on the hill - The high standing of being counted among the five great Inari shrines of Japan, together with those of the Tohoku, Kanto, Kinki, and Kyushu regions - The warm atmosphere of Inari faith, where people pray for prosperous business and the granting of wishes

Enjoying the Seasons

In spring the cherry blossoms of the castle town and the color of the vermilion gates overlap beautifully. In summer the green of the hills deepens and the vermilion of the gates stands out all the more. In autumn the surrounding hills turn color and the view of the leaves and the town is splendid. In winter the contrast of the snow dusted town and the vermilion gates creates a mellow charm.

Access and Basic Information

- Location: Tsuwano Town, Kanoashi District, Shimane Prefecture - Reachable on foot or by car from JR Tsuwano Station - There is a route climbing the torii tunnel and a route that lets you drive to the top - It is recommended to visit together with a stroll through the castle town

A Quick Tip

Climbing on foot through the tunnel of vermilion gates heightens the sense of anticipation of the visit. If you are short on energy, you can drive to the upper parking area. Enjoy it over a half day together with a walk through the Tsuwano castle town.