Furufu Jinja, Shinto shrine in Japan
Furufu Jinja is a modest Shinto shrine in Izumi featuring simple wooden structures, a gently sloping roof, and gravel paths lined with tall trees. The grounds include a bright red torii gate at the entrance, stone fox statues throughout, a rope with hanging paper streamers, and a small altar hall where visitors ring bells and make offerings.
The shrine traces its origins to the Heian period and was originally known by the name meaning Old Shrine of the Province. It held an official court ranking until the mid-twentieth century under the State Shinto system, but lost this designation after 1946 while remaining central to local spiritual practice.
The shrine honors a spirit whose messengers, depicted as foxes in stone statues throughout the grounds, are believed to guide and protect the community. Visitors bring offerings to these statues as a way of connecting with traditions that describe foxes as mystical beings linking humans to the divine.
The shrine is easily reached on foot from nearby train stations or bus stops and has a small parking area for those arriving by car. It is best to allow time to explore at a leisurely pace and notice small details like carved wooden elements and stones placed on the ground, as each part holds meaning in the tradition.
The legend of Kuzunoha, a white fox that transforms into human form to help people, has been passed down for generations in this region and is woven into the shrine's identity. This story of loyalty and mystical connection between humans and animals gives the shrine meaning beyond a simple prayer site.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
