Visiting experience of Kyushu Yutoku Inari Shrine

#JanuaryGoodPlaces2025 This visit to the Yutoku Inari Shrine in Saga Prefecture, Kyushu, allowed me to deeply experience the solemnity and spirituality of traditional Japanese shrines. Yutoku Inari Shrine is known as one of the three major Inari shrines in Japan. It deifies Uga-no-Mikoto and is a holy place where many businessmen and believers come to pray for prosperous business and good fortune. As soon as you step into the shrine, you will see the majestic vermilion main hall. The colorful building looks particularly spectacular against the backdrop of the blue sky and lush green mountains. Climbing up the stone steps, you can feel the atmosphere of traditional Japanese culture with every step. The surrounding red torii gates stretch upwards, which is somewhat similar to the Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine in Kyoto, but there is less noise and more tranquility and peace here. Standing on the top of the shrine, you can overlook the entire Kashima City with a broad view, especially in autumn and winter, when the surrounding mountains and forests are dyed with layers of red leaves, the scenery is beautiful. In addition to worshipping and enjoying the scenery, there are also many special amulets and ema in the shrine. I specially bought an Inari fox-shaped amulet, hoping that it will bring good luck for the future. Overall, Yutoku Inari Shrine is not only a place to worship and pray, but also a great place to slow down and immerse yourself in Japanese culture and beautiful scenery. If I have the chance in the future, I will definitely visit again to experience the shrine in different seasons. I also recommend it to travelers who like to explore Japan’s traditional culture!