0-Minute Walk from Kumamoto Castle! Kumamoto Castle Inari Shrine, Full of Japanese Culture Loved by Locals

”熊本城稲荷神社 (Kumamoto Castle Inari Shrine),” located on the grounds of Kumamoto Castle, was created about 400 years ago as the guardian deity of Kumamoto Castle. The shrine is dedicated to 白髭大明神 (Shirahige Daimyo-jin), accompanied by two sacred foxes, messengers of the Inari Shrine, and was moved to its current location about 100 years ago. The shrine is always crowded with visitors who pray for family safety and prosperous business.

400 Years of Being Loved by Locals as “Shirahige-san”
Where Shinto and Buddhism Coexist: A Unique Japanese Space
Is Mochi Falling from the Sky!? “Mochimaki,” A Traditional Japanese Folk Culture
Collect “Goshuin” When Visiting Shrines and Temples!

400 Years of Being Loved by Locals as “Shirahige-san”

The shrine is nicknamed 'Shirahige-san' by locals and has long been loved as the community's guardian deity. It is also revered as a deity that brings affluence to people's lives. The iconic rows of torii gates, unique to Inari shrines, are also popular photo spots for tourists.

Where Shinto and Buddhism Coexist: A Unique Japanese Space

In Japan, two religions—Shinto and Buddhism—coexist, allowing you to experience their unique and fascinating cultural blend, which can be found in many places. Here at Kumamoto Castle Inari Shrine, 14 Shinto deities and 4 Buddhist Jizo deities are enshrined together, which is somewhat unusual.

Is Mochi Falling from the Sky!? “Mochimaki,” A Traditional Japanese Folk Culture

On the luckiest day of the year, in February, a festival called “初午大祭(Hatsuuma Grand Festival)” is held, attracting many worshippers. Taiko drums and dancing are highlights of the festival, but the most noteworthy event is the “Mochimaki (Rice cake throwing)”! Mochi is thrown from a high place and distributed to worshippers. This event is a traditional Japanese celebration ritual that has become ingrained in the culture of ordinary people.

Collect “Goshuin” When Visiting Shrines and Temples!

Collecting “Goshuin (Red ink stamp)” has recently become a bit of a boom in Japan. Goshuin is a handwritten calligraphy or stamp given as proof of a visit to a shrine or temple. It has a sacred meaning; at Kumamoto Castle Inari Shrine, it costs 500 yen to receive Goshuin. To commemorate your visit, why not purchase a Goshuin book at the counter and take it as a souvenir of your trip to Japan?