Inu Shrine (Aichi Prefecture) Complete Guide | 1350 Years of History and the Blessings of the Dog God
Located in Ino-cho, Nishi-ku, Nagoya City, Aichi Prefecture, Inu Shrine is one of Nagoya’s oldest shrines, boasting a history of over 1350 years. As its name suggests, it is a shrine associated with “dogs,” attracting special devotion from those born in the Year of the Dog and dog lovers. This article comprehensively introduces information you should know before visiting Inu Shrine, including its history, enshrined deities and blessings, highlights of the grounds, access methods, and information on Goshuin (shrine stamps).
What is Inu Shrine? | An Ancient Shrine with Over 1350 Years of History
Inu Shrine is said to have been founded in 673 AD, during the reign of Emperor Tenmu, the 40th emperor. It is believed that the shrine was built when rice harvested in this region (Ino Village) was presented to the imperial family.
The Inu Shrine is listed in the Engishiki Jinmyocho (a list of shrines compiled in the Heian period) as “Inu Shrine in Yamada District, Owari Province,” indicating its status as a Shikinaisha (a shrine listed in the Engishiki). Furthermore, the Honkokucho (a register of shrines in Owari Province) lists it as “Jusanmi Inu Tenjin,” indicating a deep connection with the imperial court and a high rank from ancient times.
While there are numerous shrines in Nagoya City, Inu Shrine boasts a long history of over 1350 years since its founding, making it one of Nagoya’s most renowned ancient shrines.
Origin of the Shrine’s Name and its Connection to “Dogs”
The name “Inu” in Inu Shrine originates from Inuhime-no-kami, one of the main deities enshrined there. This unique name has led to a deep connection between the shrine and dogs.
In front of the main hall on the shrine grounds sits a stone statue of a dog, known as the “King of Dogs,” welcoming visitors. This statue is a symbol of the shrine and attracts special devotion from people born in the Year of the Dog and dog lovers.
Especially on New Year’s Day of the Year of the Dog, a large number of worshippers visit from all over the country, making the shrine grounds even more lively than usual. During the Year of the Dog, which occurs only once every 12 years, the shrine grounds are filled with worshippers seeking good fortune.
Deities and Blessings | God of Safe Childbirth, Fertility, and Marital Harmony
Main Deities
The following three deities are enshrined at Inu Shrine:
Inuhime-no-kami
Inuhime-no-kami, one of the main deities, is the consort of Ootoshi-no-kami and the mother of five other gods. Since ancient times, she has been worshipped as a goddess who bestows great divine blessings for fertility, safe childbirth, marital harmony, and family safety.
Ootoshi-no-kami
Known as the god of grain, he is believed to bring blessings of abundant harvests and business prosperity. He is the husband of Inuhime-no-kami and a deity who protects the rice cultivation culture of this region.
Takeinadane-no-mikoto
He is considered the ancestral deity of the Owari clan and is revered as the guardian deity of the region.
Main Benefits
At Inu Shrine, it is believed that one can receive the following benefits:
- Prayers for Safe Childbirth and Conception: As Inuhime-no-kami is the mother goddess of five deities, the shrine is particularly known for its blessings of safe childbirth and conception.
- Marital Harmony: As the shrine enshrines the married couple deities Ootoshi-no-kami and Inuhime-no-kami, it is believed to deepen the bond between husband and wife.
- Family Safety: The shrine protects the health and peace of the family.
- Exorcism: The shrine is believed to ward off misfortune and invite good fortune.
- Prayers for Pet Health: As a shrine associated with dogs, many visitors come to pray for the health of their beloved dogs, cats, and other pets.
Especially for prayers for safe childbirth, the shrine is known as a famous spot for such prayers, attracting many pregnant women and their families from all over Aichi Prefecture, not just Nagoya City.
Highlights of the Shrine Grounds | Dog Statues and Sacred Space
Dog King Statue
When visiting Inu Shrine, you will definitely see the stone statue of the “Dog King” enshrined in front of the main hall. This stone statue is a beloved symbol of the shrine, and many visitors take photographs of it.
The dog statue is also revered as a symbol of safe childbirth and fertility, and visitors can be seen touching the statue and offering prayers. Special decorations are sometimes added during the Year of the Dog, allowing visitors to enjoy a unique atmosphere that only comes around once every 12 years.
Main Hall and Worship Hall
The main hall of Inu Shrine has a majestic presence that reflects its long history. In the worship hall, in addition to daily prayers, various prayers are performed, including prayers for safe childbirth, protection from evil, and Shichi-Go-San (a traditional Japanese rite of passage for children).
Despite being located in an urban area, the shrine grounds maintain a tranquil atmosphere, providing a peaceful environment for worship.
Gift Shop and Shrine Office
At the gift shop, you can receive amulets, goshuin (stamped seals), and ema (votive tablets). Dog-themed amulets and ema are particularly popular as unique items offered at Inu Shrine.
Various items are available for worship, such as amulets for safe childbirth, maternity belts, and amulets for conception, each corresponding to a specific blessing.
Goshuin (Shrine Seals)
At Inu Shrine, you can receive a goshuin as proof of your visit. In addition to the regular goshuin, limited edition goshuin may be given out in special years such as the Year of the Dog.
Some worshippers have mentioned a “golden goshuin,” and it is possible that goshuin with a different design than usual may be given out on special days or during festivals. When receiving a goshuin, it is recommended to check the reception hours of the shrine office in advance.
Annual Events and Festivals | The Four Seasons of Inu Shrine
New Year’s Visit and Special Visits in the Year of the Dog
Inu Shrine’s New Year’s visit is especially lively in the Year of the Dog. On New Year’s Day of the Year of the Dog, which occurs once every 12 years, tens of thousands of worshippers visit from all over the country, and the shrine grounds are crowded all day long.
Even in a normal year, many worshippers visit the shrine, which is associated with dogs, to offer their New Year’s greetings.
Other Major Events
Inu Shrine holds various Shinto rituals and festivals throughout the year.
- Annual Grand Festival: The shrine’s most important festival.
- Monthly Festival: A regular festival held every month.
- Shichi-Go-San: The shrine is bustling with many families during the autumn Shichi-Go-San season.
- Exorcism Prayer: Many people visit at the beginning of the year and during the unlucky years.
For specific dates, we recommend checking the official website or contacting the shrine by phone.
Basic Information | Visiting Hours and Contact Information
Location and Contact Information
- Address: 2-12 Inomachi, Nishi-ku, Nagoya City, Aichi Prefecture 451-0012
- Phone Number: 052-521-8800
- Visiting Hours: Grounds are freely accessible (please check the shrine office’s reception hours)
- Admission Fee: Free
- Official Website: https://inu-jinjya.or.jp/
About Prayers
If you wish to receive prayers for safe childbirth, protection from evil, Shichi-Go-San (children’s festival), etc., it is recommended that you inquire by phone in advance. Please contact the shrine directly regarding prayer reception hours and offering fees.
Access | How to Get to Inu Shrine
Access by Train
Nearest Station: Shonai-dori Station, Tsurumai Line (Nagoya Municipal Subway)
- Approximately 10-minute walk from Exit 2 of Shonai-dori Station
- Head north from the station and you will arrive at the shrine after passing through a residential area.
There are commercial facilities such as Aeon Town Meisei around Shonai-dori Station, so you can enjoy shopping and dining before or after your visit.
Other Access Methods
- Approximately 15 minutes from Nagoya Station on the Tsurumai Line (Nagoya Municipal Subway)
- Approximately 20 minutes from Sakae Station by taking the Higashiyama Line (Nagoya Municipal Subway), transferring at Fushimi Station, and then taking the Tsurumai Line.
Access by Car
Parking
Inu Shrine has a free parking lot for visitors. However, the parking lot may be crowded during New Year’s Day, the first day of the Year of the Dog, and during festivals, so we recommend using public transportation.
Access from Major Roads
- Approximately 10 minutes from the “Meidocho Exit” of the Nagoya Expressway Route 6 Kiyosu Line
- Head north from National Route 22 towards Inomachi
When using a car navigation system, it is convenient to search for “Inu Shrine” or the phone number “052-521-8800”.
Barrier-Free Information
The shrine grounds are relatively flat, and wheelchair access is possible. However, there are some areas with steps, so if assistance is needed, it is recommended to contact the shrine in advance.
Regarding the route from the parking lot to the shrine grounds and considerations when receiving prayers, it may be possible to make arrangements by contacting the shrine in advance by phone.
Recommended Nearby Spots | Places to Visit Together
Aeon Town Meisei
A shopping center located near the nearest Shonai-dori Station. Convenient for meals and shopping after visiting the shrine.
Shonai Ryokuchi Park
A vast park located approximately 10 minutes by car from Inu Shrine. With seasonal flowers and a large lawn area, it’s perfect for a family picnic.
Other Shrines and Temples in Nagoya
Nagoya City boasts numerous historical shrines and temples, including Atsuta Shrine, Osu Kannon Temple, and Shiroyama Hachimangu Shrine. Visiting these along with Inu Shrine allows for a deeper experience of Nagoya’s history and culture.
Visitor Experiences and Feelings | Voices of Visitors
Many visitors to Inu Shrine have shared the following impressions:
- “Despite being in the city, I was able to visit the shrine in a quiet and peaceful atmosphere.”
- “The dog statue was adorable, and I was glad I could pray for my dog’s health.”
- “I visited to pray for a safe delivery, and I felt relieved after receiving such a thorough prayer.”
- “The shrine was crowded for the New Year’s visit in the Year of the Dog, but I felt that this shows how much the shrine is loved by many people.”
- “The goshuin (shrine stamp) was beautiful, and it made for a wonderful memento of my visit.”
- “It was conveniently located near the subway station, which was very helpful.”
In particular, many visitors seeking blessings for safe childbirth and fertility have expressed their gratitude, saying things like, “I felt at peace,” and “I was able to give birth safely.”
Points to Remember When Visiting Inu Shrine | For a More Fulfilling Visit
Manners for Visiting Shrine
- Bow Before Passing Through the Torii Gate: As a sign of respect before entering the sacred area, bow before the torii gate.
- Purify Your Body and Mind at the Water Basin: Purify your left hand, right hand, and mouth in that order.
- Proper Worship Etiquette: The basic procedure is two bows, two claps, and one bow.
- Dog Statue: Photography is permitted, but please be considerate of other visitors.
Recommended Times to Visit
- New Year’s Visit in the Year of the Dog: Experience a special atmosphere that only comes once every 12 years, but it will be extremely crowded.
- Prayer for Safe Childbirth: Traditionally, visit on the Day of the Dog in the fifth month of pregnancy, but visit according to your physical condition.
- Weekday Mornings: Relatively less crowded, allowing for a more relaxed visit.
- Shichi-Go-San Season: October to November is crowded, but the atmosphere is vibrant with children in their festive attire.
Useful Items to Bring
- Goshuincho (Stamp Book): Bring one if you plan to receive a Goshuin (stamp).
- Hatsuhoryo (Offering): If receiving a prayer, it’s polite to prepare the exact amount.
- Camera: For photographing the atmosphere of the shrine grounds and the dog statue.
- Pet Photos: Some people bring photos of their pets when praying for their health.
The Historic Land of Ino | Connections with the Community
Ino-cho, where Inu Shrine is located, has long been a region where rice cultivation flourished, as its name suggests. The high-quality rice harvested in this region was presented to the Imperial Family, which led to the founding of the shrine.
Although this region was once plagued by floods of the Shonai River, the people devoutly worshipped Inu Shrine, praying for a bountiful harvest and the safety of the region. Although the area has now developed into a residential area, the shrine remains a spiritual center for the community, closely intertwined with people’s lives.
In local festivals and events, Inu Shrine plays a central role, and its history of over 1350 years is clearly being passed down to the present day.
Summary | Blessings and Peace of Mind at Inu Shrine
Located in Nishi-ku, Nagoya City, Aichi Prefecture, Inu Shrine is a venerable ancient shrine with a history of over 1350 years. Since its founding during the reign of Emperor Tenmu, it has been cherished by the local people.
The main deity, Inuhime-no-kami, is known for her blessings of safe childbirth, fertility, marital harmony, and family safety. It is particularly popular as a place for prayers for safe childbirth, attracting many pregnant women and their families. Furthermore, the stone statue of a dog, named after the shrine, attracts worshippers born in the Year of the Dog and dog lovers, and many visitors come to pray for the health of their pets.
Located just a 10-minute walk from Shonai-dori Station on the Tsurumai Subway Line, Inu Shrine boasts excellent accessibility, attracting many visitors not only from Nagoya and Aichi Prefecture but also from outside the prefecture. Free parking is available, making it accessible by car.
Despite its urban location, the shrine grounds maintain a tranquil atmosphere, providing an ideal space to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and find peace of mind. As a shrine to visit at important life events such as New Year’s prayers, safe childbirth prayers, protection from evil, and Shichi-Go-San (a traditional Japanese rite of passage for children), Inu Shrine is sure to continue attracting the faith of many.
When visiting Nagoya, or when you are reaching an important milestone in your life, be sure to visit Inu Shrine and experience the sacred atmosphere nurtured by over 1350 years of history. It will surely be a memorable experience.
