Unlike most Inari shrines which are Shinto, this is a Buddhist temple belonging to the Soto Zen sect.
The temple does not worship a fox; the fox is considered the messenger of the deity Dakiniten.
The fox statues (Reikozuka) are donated by worshippers seeking divine favor or expressing gratitude for answered prayers.
During the Edo period, the temple gained significant prestige and was supported by various feudal lords.
The temple grounds house a collection of stone sculptures that have accumulated over several centuries.
It is one of the three major Inari temples in Japan.
Toyokawa Inari is a Soto Zen Buddhist temple that serves as the head temple for the Inari deity, featuring over 1,000 stone fox statues. While typically associated with Shinto, this site maintains a unique syncretic identity where the deity Dakiniten is worshipped as the temple's guardian. The grounds include the Reikozuka, a secluded forest path filled with varying sizes of fox offerings. Its architectural complex consists of numerous halls including the Honden and the Okunoin. The temple is historically significant, having been established in the 15th century by the monk Reia. The premises are characterized by vibrant red torii gates that line the pathways leading to the various sub-shrines.
The path through the Reikozuka forest lined with hundreds of moss-covered fox statues.
Walk the full path through the Reikozuka forest to see the densest concentration of fox statues.
Purchase a small fox-shaped votive plaque (ema) to leave on the grounds.
Visit the temple office to view unique amulets specifically associated with this site's syncretic tradition.
Taking flash photography inside the interior temple halls or touching the delicate stone fox sculptures.
Maintain a quiet demeanor, remove hats when entering temple buildings, and bow slightly before the altar.
