Aomori

Takayama Inari Shrine

Where the fox meets the dragon

Giovanni Perez Apr 04, 2015 - 1 min read

<p>This is one of the many entrances to the shrine. Walking through the gate felt as if you were stepping into another world. </p>

<p>These stone foxes are said to be from all over Japan. When they have become damaged or just became old(serving their duty) they are sent to rest at this shrine.  </p>

<p>This picture was taken from the top of a slope overlooking the bottom section of Takayama Inari Shrine</p>

<p>This is the entrance of the 201 red torii gates that are supposed to represent a dragon. After you walk through the belly of the dragon, you reach the retired foxes.</p>

<p>This was taken from a cupboard holding all of the resting foxes that served their duty.  </p>

<p>This picture portrays the tranquility of a bridge over a pond. You may not be able to tell from this picture but, it was serene. </p>

Inari shrines are identified by their red torii gates and fox statues. Takayama Inari Shrine （高山稲荷神社）has a bunch of both. Foxes are the messengers of the deity Inari. From life-sized stone foxes to small white foxes in tiny houses, the dozens of foxes here are all said to be "retired". Having served their purpose of protecting other shrines across the country, they are sent to Takayama Inari Shrine when too old or breaking. Now they rest here in eternal slumber.

To reach the retired foxes and the main shrine, you'll need to walk through 201 torii gates. From a distance, you can see why the locals say the gates resemble a dragon. A long line of red zigzagging up the hill looks like an ancient Chinese/Japanese style dragon in flight!

The whole scene and atmosphere is amazing at Takayama Inari Shrine. Highly recommended.

Giovanni Perez @giovanni.perez

Hello, I am Giovanni Perez! I am from Long Beach, California but I am currently residing in Aomori, Japan. I have been living in Japan as an English teacher for about 2 years and 7 months. I enjoy and love every moment of it. I live in the country side of Aomori, Tsugaru-city to be exact! Tsugaru...