The Yutoku Inari Shrine is located in Saga, Kyushu, and is one of the three largest Inari shrines in Japan. It is made up of several beautiful parts all of which come together to create a peaceful and spiritual atmosphere. For those Ghibli lovers, visiting is like stepping in to the world of ‘Spirited Away’, complete with the large red bridge to hold your breath whilst you cross.

The location of the shrine is parallel to a river, and this is because it is believed that gods are present in natural monuments {animism}, and also that their spiritual presence is higher in this area. The Yutoku Inari Shrine’s god is kitsune, the fox. Large statues of foxes decorate the entrance gate, and off to the side is a place with flowing water. Here, you can wash your hands by pouring water over them, to purify them before entering the shrine. In the old days, people used to also wash their whole body in the nearby river, no matter the season.

The shrine has so much to try, but before checking out all of the amazing things you can do, watch your step! All of the pathways in the shrine are made up of several blocks. { I I I I I I }. You might not notice, but all of the columns of blocks are always an odd number. This is because it is believed that the Gods walk on the centre column, so make sure you walk to the left of it.

You might have seen Japanese people receiving fortunes at shrines, these are called omikuji. They can be bought at the shrine for around 100-200 円{$1-2AUD}, and there are several varieties. From your standard full coverage {health, love, studies, work}, you also have love omikujis, as well as ones which tell you what your lucky stone will be for the next year.

Also at the shrine is a special love spot. There, you can pray for good fortune in love and even write a message to the Gods on a piece of wood. This area is well-known in Japan as a famous comedian visited, and a year later he married a very beautiful woman.





Take a trip up the red stairs and you will be greeted with an amazing view, both inside and out. This area is the shrine’s main, well, shrine. Toss in a few coins, ring the bell and pray by bowing twice, clapping your hands twice and bowing once again once you have finished your prayer. If you are lucky you might be able to see a formal ceremony inside the shrine – consisting of music, dancing and prayer.

Near this large part of the shrine is a spot that most people miss. To the left of the stairs is a small stone path, leading to a water pool. The idea behind this pool is that you churn up the water with the ladle provided and look in. If you can see your face clearly in the agitated water then something terrible will happen to you. If not, you’re good to go!

By far my favourite part of the shrine is the walk up the mountain. It is so scenic and lovely and every step is accompanied by hundreds of smaller shrines. The view from the top is superb and though the climb up is a little steep, it is well worth it {though I don’t recommend wearing heels}.





Once you have descended the mountain, pay a visit to the traditional Japanese garden. It is particularly gorgeous in spring, when all of the cherry blossoms are blooming. The entrance fee is only $2AUD, and the delicate scenery is well worth this very small price.

The Yutoku Inari Shrine is really one of the wonders of Japan. It is well known in Asian society, particularly Thailand, but not as much in Western culture. Honestly, it would be a shame to miss the opportunity to see one of the oldest and largest Inari shrines in Japan, so if you are headed that way, make sure to visit!

Find out more info about the Shrine, as well as the museum across the road here!

-H