Good fortune comes with faith — the guardian Inari Shrine of Saiga

Text by Lai Peixuan | Photography by Chi Binghui

 

Nestled in Saga Prefecture, Japan, the lush Inari Shrine is surrounded by verdant woods. Its striking red architecture stands out brilliantly amid the greenery, bathed in the forest’s fresh phytoncides and tranquil atmosphere, making it a renowned spiritual site. Alongside Fushimi Inari and Kasama Inari, it is celebrated as one of Japan’s Three Great Inari Shrines, attracting around 2.8 million worshippers annually — a testament to its far-reaching fame and allure.

 

The origins of Inari Shrine date back to 1687, when the third lord of the Kashima Domain, Nabeshima Naotaka, requested a branch shrine of the Inari deity from the Hosho-in estate within Kyoto Imperial Palace to enshrine here upon marrying Lady Hanayagi Kaneko-hime. To this day, it remains highly revered by devotees.

 

The shrine enshrines the Inari deity, the god of harvest and wealth — the most widely worshipped kami in Japan. Fox statues are commonly found at Inari shrines nationwide because, since the medieval period, foxes have been regarded as messengers of the Inari deity. Visitors typically pray for bountiful crops, prosperous businesses, thriving households, abundant catches, and safe travels.

Additionally, the shrine features a love-dedicated area, where unique heart-shaped ema (votive plaques) called “love umbrellas” add a playful and romantic touch. Depicting couples sharing an umbrella, they symbolize love and eternal togetherness. Meanwhile, ema shaped like hollowed-out “calamity” characters are popular for warding off evil and misfortune, helping locals wish for safety throughout the year.