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Yutoku Inari Shrine is one of the "Three Great Inari Shrines" in Japan, alongside Fushimi Inari in Kyoto and Kasama Inari in Ibaraki. It was established in the 4th year of the Jōkyō era (1687) by Hanazono-in Manko-hime, the wife of the lord of the Hizen Kashima Domain, Nabeshima Naomasa, when she moved from Kyoto to Kashima and invited the deity Inari, who had previously been enshrined by imperial decree.
This shrine is revered as a deity that blesses people with food, clothing, shelter, prosperous business, family fortune, and good relationships, and is beloved by the local community, affectionately referred to as "Yutoku-sensei."
The main hall stands majestically in front of the lush green cliffs of Ishibekiyama, with a tower gate and a kagura hall at the foot of the mountain. The main structure is adorned with lacquer, showcasing a splendid appearance, and is known as "Chinsei Nikkō" for its beauty. Visitors can walk up the stone steps from the tower gate to the summit, where they can worship at "Okunoin" and enjoy a panoramic view of the ocean.
The shrine grounds feature a Japanese garden blooming with seasonal flowers and a museum displaying the shrine's collections. Numerous festivals and events take place here, such as the "Kashima Traditional Performing Arts Festival" in September and the "Fire Burning" event on December 8, both attracting large crowds and creating a lively atmosphere. When visiting, it's also worth strolling through the shopping street in front of the shrine's approach to pick up the locally famous "Inari Yōkan" as a souvenir.
