Toyokawa Inari Shrine is one of the crown jewels of the country’s central Chubu region. Located between the major cities of Nagoya and Shizuoka City, it’s one of Japan’s three big inari shrines. This stunning complex in Aichi Prefecture is comprised of nearly 100 buildings and is covered in beautiful stone fox statues.

Founded in 1441, Toyokawa Inari Shrine is unique because it is both a Shinto and Buddhist shrine. It’s dedicated to both the Shinto fox god(dess) Inari Okami and the Buddhist protective deity Dakini Shinten. A priest by the name of Kangan Giin first beheld Dakini Shinten in a vision, riding atop a white fox while carrying rice and a “wish-fulfilling jewel,” according to the shrine’s history. The resulting carving, fashioned by Kangan himself in the 13th century, is housed today in the shrine’s main hall.

Shrine of a thousand foxes

Photo by: Zairon Toyokawa Inari Shrine

After marveling at the carved front gate and main hall, make your way down the path to the right to explore the rest of the grounds. The Garden of Myogonji features a stunning koi pond and is also a favorite sunbathing spot for turtles and cats.

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At the end of the path lies a sight as enchanting as it is enigmatic. Approximately 800 stone foxes, staring silently amidst a lush green forest. Reikozuka, known as the Shrine of a Thousand Foxes, was originally a place to worship the messenger of Inari. However, throughout the years, those who had their wishes fulfilled dedicated fox statues to the shrine.

Nostalgic Toyokawa

Photo by: Brent Alvarez Toyokawa Inari Shrine’s torii gate.

Toyokawa’s charm extends beyond the shrine and into the shotengai, or shopping district, that lies beyond its gates. Shops peddling souvenirs and handmade goods line the retro main street. Amongst all the things on offer, the one thing not to miss is inarizushi—the sweet tofu sushi is a favorite treat of the fox deities. Toyokawa is considered one of the birthplaces of this traditional dish, though its true origin is a bit hazy. No worries, your tastebuds won’t know the difference.

In 1955, a divine message was sent from the fox spirit to a local resident of Nagato, Yamaguchi prefecture. He was told to build a shrine on the picturesque cliffs where he went fishing. This is the story locals tell when asked about the origin of the Motonosumi Inari Shrine.

Often described as breathtaking, the secluded shrine on the coast of Yamaguchi boasts 123 torii gates. They are all lined up along a footpath leading to the shrine. Most of the gates originally came from its sister shrine; Daikondani Inari Shrine in Shimane prefecture. The path stretches over 100 meters and is said to bring good luck in fishing, business, travel and pregnancy.

Photo by: Akira Takiguchi Traverse through the torii gates.

What really sets this shrine apart is the offertory box where traditionally you throw a coin in to make a wish or ask for luck. Normally set upon the ground, this shrine’s box is attached to the top of the first torii gate on the path. Patrons have to throw their coins at the box, hoping it will go in. If your aim is true and your coin does go in then your wish is said to come true.

Photo by: Bsx The rocky cliffs of Omijima.

Along the cliffside next to the shrine you get a gorgeous view of the ocean. The rock face of the cliff is riddled with grooves and holes created by weathering. This is particularly impressive when the waves crash against the cliff face, forcing water through the largest of these holes, creating a geyser-type effect. This is called the Ryugu no Shiofuki, or dragon palace geyser as it is said to look like a mythical water serpent emerging from the ocean.

The reflective pools [of the rice paddies] next to the intensely blue ocean make for quite the sight.

Further along the coast, there are sights such as Omijima or “the Alps of the sea.” These are a small island chain made up of gargantuan rocks violently jutting out of the water. You can take a cruise ship around these natural formations or see them from beneath along with the locally famous senzaki squid on a diving trip.

Photo by: Yuri Ueno A farmer in the Higashi-ushirobata Rice Terrace.

Also closeby are the reflective rice fields of Nagato. From the top of Yuya terrace, you can look down up the layered rice fields. Each one is on a different step, leading down to the ocean. Another terrace just a six-minute drive from there is Higashi-ushirobata Rice Terrace.

The reflective pools next to the intensely blue ocean make for quite the sight. On a clear night, the pools reflect the stars and the only artificial lights that can be seen are the squid fishing boats bobbing to and fro in the waves. The pools, ocean and night sky all mix in a sea of speckled lights, brightening the darkness.

Retreat from the urban hustle and bustle of Fukuoka City by taking a trip to the “Kingdom of Fruits,” where you’ll find an inari shrine (Shinto shrine dedicated to the god Inari) with nearly one hundred torii gates standing solemnly on a mountain.

About an hour away from the central area of Hakata lies the peaceful town of Ukiha in southeastern Fukuoka. A fruit lovers dream, Ukiha produces tons of varieties of grapes, peaches, persimmon, and it’s an instant hit for those looking to do some strawberry picking (in the winter months). But while here, it’s hard not to gaze at a long red snake winding along the Mino Mountain range.

Photo by: Cara Lam Nearly 100 torii gats lead you to the shrine.

But instead of a snake, you’re catching a glimpse of 90 bright-red torii gates lining the approach to Ukiha Inari Shrine, located 130 meters above ground. As you ascend the 300 steps to the shrine, which is dedicated to the gods of prosperous businesses, abundant crops, brewing, longevity and scholarship, you’ll feel the good luck sinking in. (Alternatively, you can drive and park near the shrine, if the walk seems a bit much.)

Stunning view

Once you get there, remember to turn around and get your reward — a stunning panoramic view of the Chikugo mountainous terrain and the town, with plenty of rice paddies sitting between houses. If the sky is clear, you can even spot Harazuru Hot Springs, which are located in Amagi city.

The long chain of red torii gates at Ukiha Inari Shrine will probably remind many of the famous Fushimi-Inari Shrine in Kyoto, but the former gives off a much more modest, serene atmosphere with little-to-no tourist traffic. If you happen to be there in spring, know that Ukiha Inari is a locals’ favorite spot to see cherry blossoms.

In the area

Photo by: gtknj Tsuzura Rice Terrace.

Ukiha City is most famous for its fruits and at Yamandon fruit farm, you can pick fruits all year-round: strawberries from January to May, grapes from August to September, pears from August to November, and persimmons from November to December.

Head over to Yoshii town along Bungo Kaido Road to capture nostalgic views of old white-walled houses built by wealthy merchants during Edo Period. These houses are now antique and souvenir shops. Also not to be missed is a stop by the Tsuzura Rice Terrace (Map), a graceful and scenic collection of rice paddies.

Enjoy your time to the fullest in this tiny town filled with wonder while in Kyushu.

Ever had an hour to kill before your next flight in Tokyo and wondered what to do with it? Sure, you could spend it duty-free shopping, or you could head a little way back into town to see something amazing. Luckily for people interested in the latter, Anamori Inari Shrine, a peaceful place with lots to see, is only a 6-minute train ride from Tokyo Haneda Airport.

Photo by: Matthew Coslett Not too far from Tokyo Haneda Airport.

Well, maybe you will need a generous hour to see everything… While the temple is close to the station, the route to it is poorly signposted and involves lots of walking down nondescript side roads. Luckily these roads are worthwhile, as they are filled with excellent wagashi (Japanese traditional sweets) for you to try out.

Photo by: Haya_BS The foxes of Anamori Inari Shrine.

In much the same way as the nearby streets are worth getting lost in (if you have the time), the shrine itself also deserves some exploring. Its precincts are dotted with oyashiro – miniature shrines – that are accessed through a corridor of torii (Japanese gateways). Each of these oyashiro are dedicated to different blessing that the visitors can receive.  The range of potential blessings is vast, covering everything from economic fortune to success in exams.

Photo by: Matthew Coslett Sort of like the mini version of the Fushimi Inari shrine in Kyoto.

Anamori Inari is your typical shrine with a fun twist, as the oyashiro are covered with sacred fox statues, locally known as kitsune. While foxes are known for their love of mischief, they are also said to possess magical abilities and wisdom. Even if you are not looking for a blessing, you will definitely have fun looking at all the hundreds of different fox statues.

While the temple’s oyashiro are a great place to acquire some good mojo, people who need some extra luck – always useful before a trip – often take a small bag filled with o-suna (sacred sand) home with them for round-the-clock prosperousness. The sand from Anamori Inari Shrine is well-known for its lucky properties and it’s said that simply having some will grant prayers and bring you good luck.

Photo by: Haya_BS Good vibes.

For a small shrine so conveniently located close to the airport, Anamori Inari is well-worth the short trip. In no time at all, you can have a uniquely Japanese experience, kill some time and best of all, go home with some magical omiyage (Japanese souvenirs) that will make your life better. A far better prospect than hours of boring duty-free shopping!

Known for its thousands of blazing vermillion torii gates, the Fushimi Inari Shrine draws visitors up and around its winding trail to worship the Shinto god Inari, the “kami” of rice and harvest – more commonly revered for bringing in those blessed dollar dollar bills.

The names of individuals, businesses and celebrities are inscribed on the pillars of the torii gates.

While foxes are believed to be Inari’s messengers at this sacred spot, don’t be surprised when you discover the names of businesses inscribed along the torii tunnel weaving a sprawling labyrinth up the mountain. To ensure good fortune in the future, heaps of companies and individuals—not to mention some big name enterprises and celebrities—make an offering of a torii gate that are currently available for public purchase. Prices are a snip at ¥400,000.

You’ll spot dignified fox guardians aligning the cobblestone steps spanning more than four kilometers across the wooded Mount Inari.  These stone-carved foxes are unique because they replace the common guardian lion-dogs (komainu) that serve as a classical feature of Shinto shrines.

Lucky little (and big) fox statues are on display throughout the shrine.

It takes around two hours to reach the summit of the mountain and one hour to get back down again. Tiny restaurants dotted around the trails offer tea and local snacks, including ‘Fox udon’, pointing the way to a small shrine at the top where you can pray for a bit of extra cash flow (or enormous wealth depending on how bold you’re feeling).

Happily you don’t have to cash out thousands of yen to be granted a wealth of happiness. Daytrippers can buy smaller ornamental sized gates to be placed among the myriad of moss-ridden altars and sub-shrines throughout the area.

*Added bonus: Fushimi Inari Shrine is accessible 24 hours, free of charge, for all visitors. Head there early morning or as dusk sets in to beat the crowds. You’ll be able to get that perfect Japan travel brochure shot with all the orange gates stacked together like dominos and no tourists in sight.