In northern Yamagata's Nagato City, Motonosumi Inari Shrine (元ノ隅稲成神社) and its 123 red torii gates have been attracting swathes of Instagrammers looking for that perfect addition to their feeds. This unique shrine provides a memorable ocean view with its winding red tunnel of torii gates leading to the cliff edge, overlooking the Sea of Japan. Visitors may know Kyoto's Fushimi Inari Shrine for its familiar setting, but Nagato arguably offers a more beautiful, secluded and tranquil version, thanks to abundant natural scenery, fewer visitors and a panoramic ocean vista.

About Motonosumi Inari Shrine

Motonosumi Inari Shrine was originally constructed in 1955 when a local fisherman is said to have received a divine message from a white fox in a dream – it is said this fox spirit emanated from neighbouring Shimane's Taikodani Inari Shrine and, 123 torii gates later, the shrine was completed. The offertory box here makes a departure from its usual spot on the ground – at Motonosumi Inari shrine it can be found at the top of the very first torii gate at the shrine's entrance to the main approach. It is said those who successfully throw their coins into the box will have their wishes come true – so why not give it a go!
 

Getting there

Motonosumi Inari Shrine is 20 minutes by taxi/car from JR Nagato Furuichi station.

By Tom Roseveare