Ikejiri Inari-jinja, Shinto shrine in Japan
Ikejiri Inari-jinja is a Shinto shrine in a quiet district of Tokyo with ancient trees, clean stone paths, and traditional wooden buildings. The complex includes the main shrine, smaller shrines dedicated to water and snake deities, and a well-known well within the tidy grounds.
The shrine was founded about 350 years ago during the early Edo period to protect the communities of the old villages of Ikejiri and Ikezawa. In the 1960s and again in recent years, craftsmen carefully restored it to preserve the wooden structures.
The shrine is named after the Ikejiri district and is dedicated to Ukanomitama, a deity honored in the local community for business success and family protection. Visitors can see how people still come here to pray and leave small offerings, especially during the annual festival in September.
The shrine is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and visitors can obtain special prayer cards called goshuin. It is advisable to make an appointment in advance if you wish to have prayers or special rituals performed.
The shrine is known for its famous well, called the 'Endless Well', which is said to never run dry even during the driest seasons. This historic water source was a symbol of continuity and was revered by travelers and villagers alike.
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