Guide
Motonosumi Inari Shrine is located in Yatsuura, Nagato City, Yamaguchi Prefecture. Its most striking feature is the spectacular sight of 123 vermilion torii gates lined up along the cliffs facing the Sea of Japan. In 2015, it gained international recognition when CNN featured it as one of "Japan's 31 Most Beautiful Places." The shrine is a site of worship for various blessings, including business prosperity, bountiful catches, maritime safety, good matches in marriage, fertility, good fortune, and academic success.
The origins of this shrine date back to 1955. It was established as Motonosumi Inari Shrine following a vision where a white fox appeared to a local fishing leader named Hitoshi Okamura, instructing him to establish a shrine in this location. The name was officially changed to "Motonosumi Inari Shrine" in 2019. Notably, the shrine is privately owned rather than being part of the formal Shinto hierarchy (Jinja Honcho), which gives it a unique status in terms of its management and the ownership of the torii gates.
The ultimate highlight is the sight of the 123 vermilion torii gates descending toward the waves of the Sea of Japan. Another natural wonder is the "Ryugu no Shiofuki" (Dragon Palace Sea Spray) occurring in the sea cave below the cliffs, where the crashing waves force seawater and air upward in a dramatic display. Additionally, near the exit of the back path, there is a way to test your luck: a way to toss a coin into a large offertory box located about 5 meters high in the center of the Great Torii. It is said that if you can successfully throw your coin into the box, your wishes will be granted.
Visiting during the bright daylight hours is highly recommended to fully appreciate the vivid contrast between the deep blue of the Sea of Japan and the bright vermilion of the torii gates. While the shrine is accessible year-round, the intensity of the "Ryugu no Shiofuki" sea spray changes depending on the weather and wave conditions, so a clear, sunny day is ideal. Bright daylight also provides the best environment for photography.
A unique cultural experience at the shrine is the challenge of the high-altitude offertory box. Attempting to toss a coin into the box positioned roughly 5 meters high is a popular and engaging activity for many visitors. Observing the natural phenomenon of the "Ryugu no Shiofuki" sea spray is another unforgettable experience that showcases the power of nature.
Motonosumi Inari Shrine is situated in Nagato City, Yamaguchi Prefecture, an area known for its beautiful coastal scenery. Most visitors arrive by car, allowing for a scenic coastal drive through the natural landscapes of the region.
As this is a sacred shrine, please observe basic Shinto etiquette. Because the area includes stairs and uneven surfaces, we highly recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes. When attempting to toss coins into the offertory box, please be mindful of other visitors. Please also understand that because the shrine is a privately owned site rather than a formal religious corporation, it maintains a unique character; please visit with respect and mindfulness.