Inari

Inari is one of the most widely venerated deities in Japan, associated with rice, agriculture, fertility, prosperity, and success.

Over time, Inari also became a patron of merchants, artisans, and even warriors, making their presence central to both rural life and urban commerce.

Often depicted with foxes—regarded as messengers and protectors—Inari’s shrines are easily recognized by rows of bright red torii gates, with Fushimi Inari Taisha in Kyoto being the most famous. Inari’s identity is fluid, appearing as male, female, or androgynous, reflecting the deity’s ability to embody abundance, transformation, and protection across different aspects of life.