Fushimi-Inari-Taisha | Shine of the Fox God

Fushimi-Inari Taisha is located in Japans old capital of Kyoto. It is the central, largest Shinto shrine dedicated to O-Inari, the goddess of rice, safety, and prosperity in business.  If the name isn't familiar, one could easily recognize it by the sight of its famous vermillion Senbon Torii, the rows of 10,000 gateways that lead up Inariyama. The vivid vermillion color holds a spiritual meaning for the Japanese, as it is associated with brightness, hope and the soul of Inari-Ookami. Since the Edo period, all the gates have been traditionally donated by patrons of the shrine in hopes for O-Inari's blessing for a prosperous business year.  The name of the donator and the business associated are carved into the back of each gate; just as gates can be put up, they are taken down in accordance to how much they have deteriorated over time.

The entrance at the base of the mountain where are where the 5 main shrines of O-Inari are located. The 5 shrines are: Ukanomitama no Okami, Satahiko no Okami, Omiyanome no Okami, Tanaka no Okami, and finally Shino Okami. These architecturally significant buildings are dubbed as Important Cultural Property, as each shine represents the 5 pillars and great virtues of Inari-Okami. To call the Goddesses's attention, visitors must make a donation of any amount, shake the bell, and clap 3 times to finally pray to the goddess.  This tradition is shared among all Shinto shines and it is important to do it exactly step by step, otherwise your prayer will not be heard. 

Throughout your visit of Fushimi-Inari,  statues of the little foxes or Kitsune are scattered about the mountain. They are messengers of O-Inari and are often have a symbolic object within their mouths, Sometimes they hold a scroll, a key or a wheat shaft, which is a symbol of the goddess's involvement to the harvest.  

Today, O-Inari reigns as the most popular of deities. She has more than 30 thousand shrines scattered around Japan and a large follower base that continues to grow both locally and abroad.  I believe that her popularity stems from her wide range of protection. She is known as the deity who protects all people from the emperor to the common people and is associated with business prosperity. Also, I think her representation as a fox goddess also helps in boosting her popularity with the younger generation, whats not to like about a cute fox god?

Fushimi-Inari is currently one of my favorite places within the city of Kyoto. It is truly a magical place. The rows of beautiful and aesthetically pleasing Torii Gates when lined up upon each other creates a pathway into the mountains and make one feel like they're being transported into another world entirely.

Info Sources:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fushimi_Inari-taisha

http://inari.jp/en/