Fox shrine japan

Messenger Fox or Kitsune at Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine in Kyoto Japan @FanningSparks | Postcards from Japan #3 – FanningSparks

A look at kitsune fox statues from Shinto shrines throughout Japan

If you’ve ever visited a shrine in Japan, odds are pretty good that you’ve come across statues of the Inari fox. These iconic statues, known as Inari foxes or kitsune, can be found at over 30,000 Inari shrines throughout the country. Sure, they’re cute, but have you ever wondered what the meaning behind the Inari fox is? Read on to learn more about the Inari fox’s place in history and modern Japanese culture!

Fushimi Inari Taisha Fox Shrine

Kitsune (god-like fox spirits) play a prominent role in Japanese folklore and art

Fushimi Inari Taisha Fox Shrine

Shinto Shrine on Mt.Takao, Tokyo.

I knew I was going to love the Sasuke Inari Shrine from the moment I saw the long tunnel of red lacquer torii gates leading into the deep, dark woods. But nothing prepared me for the mossy, foxy, w…