Atago Inari Shrine, Shinto shrine in Iida, Nagano pref., Japan
Atago Inari Shrine in Iida is a small sanctuary with traditional Japanese design and simple wooden structures. The main building features a curved copper roof in the nagare-zukuri style, two tall torii gates mark the entrance, and ancient cherry trees border the quiet grounds.
The shrine was founded in 1185 when the lord of Iizaka Castle, Sakazaki Yoshimasa, brought the spirit of Fushimi Inari to the area and enshrined it there. Around 1592, it was relocated to a new location within Iida's castle town to improve the roads and make access easier for visitors.
The shrine follows the Inari tradition, which centers on a fox deity associated with rice and good fortune. Visitors can see small fox statues placed throughout the grounds, often wearing red bibs, and notice how locals come to pray for successful harvests and safety in their work.
The shrine is easily accessible from Iida city center by foot or a short drive and has parking near the entrance gate. The site welcomes visitors year-round, with special appeal during cherry blossom season in spring and colorful foliage in fall.
The shrine houses an ancient cherry tree called Seishu Sakura, believed to be over 750 years old and blooming with delicate blossoms each spring. This living history creates a direct link to centuries of visitors and local devotion at this site.
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