SIGHTSEEING

Yutoku Inari Shrine: A Sacred Haven of Serenity and Tradition in Saga

2023.11.12

Yutoku Inari Shrine, attracting approximately 3 million visitors annually, is a revered Shinto shrine located in Kashima City, Saga Prefecture. Counted among Japan’s three great Inari shrines, it is a center of faith for blessings in business prosperity, family fortune, traffic safety, and matchmaking.

Explore the Majestic Shrine Grounds

Upon entering the grounds, visitors are greeted by a magnificent Ro-mon Gate. Beyond lies the main hall, perched mid-slope, 18 meters above the ground, offering a sense of awe-inspiring grandeur.

Breathtaking Views from the Inner Shrine

A roughly 300-meter uphill walk, taking about 20 to 30 minutes from the main hall, leads to the inner shrine situated at the mountain’s peak. Along the way, countless large and small Torii gates make for popular photo spots. Be prepared for steep, rugged stone steps as you approach the inner shrine – comfortable attire is recommended.

Seasonal Beauty in the Japanese Garden

Yutoku Inari Shrine boasts a beautiful Japanese garden, adorned with hydrangeas, irises, peonies, morning glories, and other seasonal blooms. Famous for its autumn foliage, the garden transforms into a vibrant spectacle of reds, offering a serene and rejuvenating experience throughout the year.

Dining and Shopping at the Monzen-Machi Street

No trip is complete without indulging in local cuisine and shopping for souvenirs. The shrine’s approach is lined with eateries and shops along a 400-meter stretch of the Monzen-Machi Street, exuding an ambiance reminiscent of the Edo period. The street is also known for its cherry blossoms, reaching full bloom from late March to early April.

Access

From Fukuoka City:
– By JR Nagasaki Main Line: Take an express train from Hakata Station to Hizen-Kashima Station (about 1 hour), followed by a 10-minute taxi or bus ride to Yutoku Inari Shrine.

From Saga City:
– By JR Nagasaki Main Line: Take an express train from Saga Station to Hizen-Kashima Station (about 20 minutes), then a 10-minute taxi or bus ride to the shrine.

From Nagasaki City:
– By JR Nagasaki Main Line: Take an express train from Nagasaki Station to Hizen-Kashima Station (about 1 hour), followed by a 10-minute taxi or bus ride.

From Saga Airport (about 40 km):
– By Airport Limousine Taxi: Saga Airport to Yutoku Inari Shrine (about 50 minutes).

From Nagasaki Airport (about 35 km):
– By Taxi: Nagasaki Airport to Yutoku Inari Shrine (about 1 hour).

GoogleMap

Official Website: [Yutoku Inari Shrine]