123 red torii gates look like a giant dragon lying on the ground—a stunning seaside shrine!

By MOOK Scenic Spots Travel Life Network Editorial Department
 

A row of crimson red torii gates set against a backdrop of clear blue ocean and lush green vegetation creates a breathtaking coastal landscape. Located in Nagato City, Yamaguchi Prefecture, the Minegisan Inari Shrine boasts a picturesque shrine with striking color contrasts.

Facing the azure Sea of Japan, the Minegisan Inari Shrine was established about 60 years ago as a branch of the nearby Taikodani Inari Shrine in Shimane Prefecture. Legend has it that a white fox god appeared in the dreams of local fishermen, instructing them to enshrine the deity here, prompting residents to build the shrine. The most unique feature is the 123 torii gates stretching over 100 meters (328 feet), creating a tunnel-like path leading to the shrine, where visitors pray for bountiful fishing, prosperous business, and safe voyages. Additionally, the Minegisan Inari Shrine not only blesses harvests and safety but also fulfills wishes related to love and fertility.

Besides the stunning views of the blue ocean and crimson torii gates, the most interesting feature of the Minegisan Inari Shrine is the placement of its offertory box. Typically, offertory boxes are placed on the ground, but at this shrine, it is situated atop the large torii gate at the entrance of the approach. Pilgrims who wish to make a donation must aim and toss their coins upward into the box. Though somewhat challenging, it is said that successfully dropping your offering into the box will make your wish come true.

Passing through the torii gates and continuing toward the sea, you’ll also discover the scenic spot “Ryugu no Shiofuki.” Shiofuki refers to the phenomenon where waves entering a cave on the cliff compress air, causing seawater to shoot upward. During autumn and winter, the seawater can even spout up to 30 meters high. The sight of water gushing into the sky resembles a dragon soaring through the air, hence the name.