A Beautiful Inari Shrine in Nishiwaki, Hyogo
Nestled in the peaceful town of Kurodashō in Nishiwaki, Hyogo Prefecture, Oka Inari Shrine is a historic Shinto shrine surrounded by serene nature and a spiritual atmosphere. It was established in 1860 as a branch of the famous Fushimi Inari Taisha in Kyoto, and has been cherished by the local community for over 150 years.
Though modest in size, its beautifully aligned vermilion torii gates create a striking visual reminiscent of a "Mini Fushimi Inari." Walking through the torii path invites a sense of quiet wonder and tranquility.
Visitors can enjoy seasonal beauty throughout the year—cherry blossoms in spring, lush greenery in summer, and vibrant foliage in autumn. This humble yet heartwarming shrine offers a perfect retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life, inviting you to pause, reflect, and offer a peaceful prayer.
We have created original ema (wooden prayer plaques) in response to requests from visitors who wish to receive the shrine's blessings. The design features a white fox — a divine messenger of Inari — and torii gates, the symbol of Oka Inari Shrine. You can choose between one with a pre-drawn gentle face or a blank one to draw your own.
Available at Nishiwaki City Kurodashō Community Center "Atsumattei", located inside JR Kurodasho Station. After writing your wishes, you may hang your plaque yourself at the shrine’s ema stand.
Ema will be available starting Saturday, July 26, 2025.
The first torii gate located at the entrance of the approach to Oka Inari Shrine has recently been beautifully restored.
This restoration was made possible thanks to generous donations offered with prayers for the revitalization of the JR Kakogawa Line. We express our heartfelt gratitude for your support.
The renewed “First Torii Gate” now warmly welcomes all visitors in a purified and refreshing atmosphere.
Cherry blossoms in spring, colorful foliage in autumn, and fresh greenery in early summer — the view from the shrine is a calming spectacle of nature's seasonal transitions.
This torii gate was donated by Mr. Tortoise Matsumoto, lead vocalist of the popular Japanese rock band “Ulfuls,” who hails from this local area.
