Yutoku Inari Shrine

Shrine

Last updated September 07, 2026 Reviewed by the Japan Voyage editorial team

Prefecture

Saga

Type

Shrine

N/A

0 reviews

Restaurant Train Access Cafe Vegetarian

About This Destination

One of Japan's three largest Inari shrines, featuring dramatic vermillion architecture built into a forested hillside. The ornate main hall stands on stilts high above the ground, offering sweeping views of the surrounding countryside.

Yutoku Inari Shrine, founded in 1687, is one of the three most prominent Inari shrines in Japan alongside Fushimi Inari in Kyoto and Kasama Inari in Ibaraki. The shrine's main hall is built on a dramatic hillside platform supported by tall wooden pillars, reminiscent of Kyoto's Kiyomizu-dera, and its vivid vermillion color stands out beautifully against the lush green forest. Visitors can climb stone steps through the shrine grounds to reach the Okuno-in inner sanctuary at the hilltop, where panoramic views reward the ascent. The shrine attracts around three million visitors annually and is at its best during cherry blossom season and the autumn foliage period. A Japanese garden and museum on the grounds display historical artifacts and treasures donated to the shrine over the centuries.

Location

Prefecture: Saga

Address: Kashima, Saga, Japan

Nearest Station: Hizen-Kashima Station

Best time to visit: Spring for cherry blossoms and azaleas at one of Japan's three great Inari shrines

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Visitor Information

Credit Cards: Accepted

Food Options: The shrine's approach street has shops selling local specialties including Kashima's famous sake, yokan sweets, and inari sushi. A rest area in the grounds serves light meals and matcha.

Official Website

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get to Yutoku Inari Shrine?

From Hakata (Fukuoka) take a train toward Hizen-Kashima Station, then a bus or taxi (about 10–15 minutes) to the shrine.

What is Yutoku Inari Shrine famous for?

It is counted among Japan's three great Inari shrines. Its vermilion main hall stands on tall stilts against the hillside, and a path of torii gates climbs to a viewpoint over the Saga plain.

What are the entry fee and hours?

The shrine grounds are free and open daily; the inner garden and museum charge a small fee. Spring azaleas and autumn foliage are highlights.

Nearby Destinations

♨️

Ureshino Onsen 7.4km

More in Saga

🏙️ Karatsu

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