Toyokawa Inari Betsuin, Buddhist temple in Moto-Akasaka, Japan
Toyokawa Inari Betsuin is a Buddhist temple in Moto-Akasaka, Tokyo, Japan, known for its connection to Inari worship. Stone fox sculptures line the pathways, and wooden buildings with curved roofs surround tidy courtyards where lanterns hang from the eaves.
A magistrate from Edo founded this branch in the early 19th century to bring Toyokawa Inari worship from Aichi Prefecture to Tokyo. The temple survived earthquakes and wars, rebuilt several times, with most of its current form dating from the postwar period.
The name comes from Inari, a deity that merchants and farmers honor, and foxes serve as its messengers. Visitors today see worshippers leaving coins at altars and lighting incense sticks to ask for success in business.
The entrance sits on a quiet street in Moto-Akasaka, a short walk from major crossroads, and the grounds open early in the morning until evening. Visitors can walk freely through the courtyards and explore the smaller shrines, but should speak softly and keep mobile phones silent.
A six-sided hall honors the founder and stands out with its shape among the surrounding rectangular buildings. Rows of lanterns inscribed by artists and performers hang along the galleries, showing donations from the entertainment industry.
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