Guida
Chiyobo Inari Shrine is a prominent Inari shrine located in Kaizu City, Gifu Prefecture. Locally, it is affectionately called "Ochobo-san" or "Ochobo Inari." It is widely renowned for bringing blessings in business prosperity, family safety, bountiful harvests, and academic success. The shrine is incredibly vibrant, attracting over 2 million visitors annually, with significant crowds gathering during the New Year holidays, the beginning and end of each month, and on the 15th of every month. The approach to the shrine consists of a 700-meter path lined with approximately 120 shops, offering a nostalgic "monzen-machi" (temple town) atmosphere. Here, you can enjoy local delicacies such as river fish dishes, kushikatsu (deep-fried skewers), and kusamochi (mugwort rice cakes), making your visit a delightful culinary experience as well.
The history of the shrine dates back approximately 1,000 years to the Heian period. It is said to have originated when Yoshitaka, the sixth son of Hachiman Taro Yoshiie, departed to establish a branch family. He was bestowed with the ancestral spirits, a sacred sword, and a portrait of Yoshiie, accompanied by the instruction to "preserve the ancestral spirits for a thousand generations." The name "Chiyobo" is derived from this phrase "Chiyo ni tamote" (preserve for a thousand generations). The current form of the shrine is linked to the era of the Bunmei period (1469–1486) when Mori Hakkai enshrined the ancestral gods in this land. Now in its 19th generation, the shrine has long been a center of faith for the local community.
The shrine grounds house three deities: Omioya no Ookami, Inari Ookami, and Miyoya no Kami. Visitors can admire the majestic architecture of the main hall (Honden) and worship hall (Haiden), the Reiden (which houses ancient fox statues, the messengers of the gods), and the sturdy wooden shrine office completed in 1953. A unique highlight is the "Round Stone" located next to the worship hall; it is said that if you lift it and find it lighter than expected, your wishes will come true. Additionally, you can see a large tree adorned with numerous shoes, a unique cultural site used for prayers to return lost items or people. These elements offer a fascinating glimpse into unique Japanese spiritual traditions.
While Chiyobo Inari Shrine is beautiful in any season, it is particularly lively during the first three days of the New Year when many people perform Hatsumode (the first shrine visit of the year). The monthly rituals (Tsukinamisai) also occur on the 15th and at the beginning/end of each month, drawing many locals. The shrine office is open from approximately 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Prayer services (Gokito) are available from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM and from 1:00 PM to 2:30 PM. We highly recommend visiting during these times to experience the lively atmosphere and enjoy the seasonal flavors of the shops along the approach.
During your visit, you can receive formal prayers (Gokito) at the worship hall. These services cover various needs such as gratitude, fulfillment of wishes, business prosperity, family safety, and protection from evil. You may also request "Shoden Gokito," which allows you to enter the sacred main hall for prayer. Exploring the 120 shops along the approach is a must-do activity; enjoy local gourmet food like river fish or kushikatsu while soaking in the lively atmosphere. Please note that the shrine does not provide official stamps (Goshuin) or the sale of amulets (Omamori) at the counter, so please plan accordingly.
The 700-meter approach is a quintessential "monzen-machi" (temple town). The street is lined with numerous restaurants and shops, allowing you to combine a spiritual visit with a delicious meal. The area is situated in a peaceful water-rich region near the Kiso Three Rivers, characterized by beautiful agricultural and fishing landscapes. It is easily accessible from Nagoya, making it an ideal destination for a day trip from the Tokai region.
When visiting, please act with respect and silence, as is customary at Japanese shrines. It is recommended to carry cash for any prayer fees or donations at the shrine office. Please be aware that pets are generally not allowed on the premises, except for service animals (guide dogs, etc.). When enjoying food at the shops along the approach, please be mindful of the surrounding environment and maintain cleanliness. We ask that you respect the history and culture of the shrine by dressing appropriately and behaving respectfully.