About Kugenuma Fushimi Inari Shrine
Kugenuma Fushimi Inari Shrine is an Inari shrine located in Kugenuma, Fujisawa City, Kanagawa Prefecture. It was established by inviting a deity from Fushimi Inari Taisha in Kyoto, and is characterized by its beautiful approach lined with vermilion torii gates.
Although a small shrine nestled in a residential area, it is affectionately known as “Kugenuma’s Inari-san” by locals, and attracts many worshippers during events such as New Year’s visits and Shichi-Go-San (a traditional Japanese rite of passage for children).
Deities and Blessings
Main Deity
Ukanomitama-no-kami is enshrined as the main deity. Known as the Inari god, this deity is the god of grain and food, and is worshipped as a god of abundant harvests and business prosperity.
Main Benefits
- Business Prosperity: Development of businesses, prosperity of stores
- Abundant Harvest: Bountiful harvests, gratitude for food
- Family Safety: Health and peace of mind for family members
- Matchmaking: Successful relationships, smooth interpersonal relationships
- Good Fortune and Prosperity: Increased luck, attracting good fortune
This shrine is particularly revered by local shop owners and businesspeople, and is characterized by the large number of visitors who come to pray for business prosperity.
Highlights of the Shrine Grounds
Vermilion Torii Gates
Multiple vermilion torii gates line the approach to the shrine, creating a landscape reminiscent of Fushimi Inari Taisha. The path, as you pass through the torii gates, is enveloped in a tranquil atmosphere that makes you forget the hustle and bustle of the city.
Main Shrine
The small main shrine is meticulously maintained and clean. It is decorated with vermilion, typical of Inari shrines.
Fox Statues
Stone statues of foxes, the divine messengers of Inari shrines, are placed within the shrine grounds, watching over worshippers.
Points to Note When Visiting a Shrine
Etiquette for Visiting a Shrine
- Bow Before Passing Through the Torii Gate: Bow lightly before entering the approach to the shrine.
- Purify at the Water Basin: Purify your left hand, right hand, and mouth in that order.
- Two Bows, Two Claps, and One Bow at the Main Shrine: Follow the general etiquette for visiting a shrine.
- Be Specific About Your Wish: If you are praying for business prosperity, it is good to mentally specify the details of your business and your goals.
Recommended Visiting Times
- Early Morning (7:00 AM – 9:00 AM): You can visit the shrine slowly in a quiet and refreshing atmosphere.
- Weekday Mornings: Recommended for those who want to avoid crowds and visit the shrine in peace.
- New Year’s Visit Period: It will be crowded from January 1st to 3rd, but you can feel the lively atmosphere of the local area.
Annual Events
- Hatsuumasai (First Horse Day of February): The most important festival of Inari Shrines.
- Annual Festival (Autumn): A lively local festival.
Access Information
Access by Train
Approximately 8 minutes on foot from Kugenuma-Kaigan Station on the Odakyu Enoshima Line
- Exit the north exit of Kugenuma-Kaigan Station
- Walk straight north along the street in front of the station
- Proceed through the residential area and follow the signs
Using the Bus from Fujisawa Station on the JR Tokaido Line
- Take the Enoden Bus bound for “Kugenuma Shako-mae” from the south exit of Fujisawa Station
- Get off at “Kugenuma Shogakko-mae” and walk for approximately 3 minutes
Access by Car
- Approximately 10 minutes from Fujisawa IC on the Shin-Shonan Bypass**
- Parking: There is a small parking space for visitors on the temple grounds (approximately 2-3 cars)
- During busy times such as New Year’s Day, it is recommended to use nearby coin parking.
Combination with Surrounding Facilities
- Kugenuma Beach: 15-minute walk; enjoy a stroll along the beach after visiting the shrine.
- Enoshima Shrine: Approximately 15-minute drive; also known for its blessings of business prosperity.
Basic Information
|Item|Content|
|—|—|
|Location|Kugenuma, Fujisawa City, Kanagawa Prefecture|
|Phone Number|Confirmation required (managed by local community association)|
|Visiting Hours|Open all day|
|Shrine Office Reception|Irregular (only during events)|
|Offering Fee|Donation at your discretion|
|Parking|Available (small)|
|Offering Website|None|
Points to Note When Visiting
- As it is located in a residential area, please be quiet when visiting.
- The shrine office is not always staffed, so they may not be able to provide Goshuin (shrine stamps).
- This shrine is carefully preserved by the local community. Please observe proper etiquette when visiting the shrine.
Summary
Kugenuma Fushimi Inari Shrine is a community-oriented Inari shrine nestled in a residential area of the Shonan region. Its charm lies in its beautiful vermilion torii gates leading to the shrine, its blessings for business prosperity and matchmaking, and its warm atmosphere loved by the locals. Why not stop by when you’re sightseeing at Kugenuma Beach?
