Takayama Inari Shrine

Where the fox meets the dragon

Community writer

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This is one of the many entrances to the shrine. Walking through the gate felt as if you were stepping into another world.

These stone foxes are said to be from all over Japan. When they have become damaged or just became old(serving their duty) they are sent to rest at this shrine.

This picture was taken from the top of a slope overlooking the bottom section of Takayama Inari Shrine

This is the entrance of the 201 red torii gates that are supposed to represent a dragon. After you walk through the belly of the dragon, you reach the retired foxes.

This was taken from a cupboard holding all of the resting foxes that served their duty.

This picture portrays the tranquility of a bridge over a pond. You may not be able to tell from this picture but, it was serene.

Inari shrines are identified by their red torii gates and fox statues. Takayama Inari Shrine （高山稲荷神社）has a bunch of both. Foxes are the messengers of the deity Inari. From life-sized stone foxes to small white foxes in tiny houses, the dozens of foxes here are all said to be "retired". Having served their purpose of protecting other shrines across the country, they are sent to Takayama Inari Shrine when too old or breaking. Now they rest here in eternal slumber.

To reach the retired foxes and the main shrine, you'll need to walk through 201 torii gates. From a distance, you can see why the locals say the gates resemble a dragon. A long line of red zigzagging up the hill looks like an ancient Chinese/Japanese style dragon in flight!

The whole scene and atmosphere is amazing at Takayama Inari Shrine. Highly recommended.

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By Giovanni Perez

Community writer

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Elena Lisina 3 years ago

I wonder how to get there - are there any buses from train station?

Preethu 7 years ago

Looks Great place to visit!

Giovanni Perez Photographer 7 years ago

Good morning Preethu, it is a wonderful and mysterious place to visit. !

Check it out if you have a chance. I would love to know how your experience was.

Justin Velgus 9 years ago

Wow, great find. I like the story behind the shrine and how it is represented physically with the architecture through representations of the dragon and many foxes!!!

4 comments in total