Inari Shrine (88 Terasaka, Hanawa, Kazuno City, Akita Prefecture) Complete Guide | Basic Information, Access, and Nearby Shrines
The Inari Shrine, located in Terasaka, Hanawa district, Kazuno City, Akita Prefecture, is a beloved shrine deeply rooted in the local community. This article provides detailed information about the Inari Shrine, from its basic information to its surrounding environment and access methods, useful for those considering a visit or those wanting to learn more about local shrines.
Basic Information about ‘Inari Shrine’
Location and Postal Code
The Inari Shrine is located at 88 Terasaka, Hanawa, Kazuno City, Akita Prefecture. The postal code is 〒018-5201. The Hanawa district is located in the center of Kazuno City and is a historical area that has flourished as a transportation hub since ancient times.
Corporate Number and Designation Date
The corporate number for the Inari Shrine is “5410005003365”. This corporate number was assigned on October 5, 2015 (Monday). The corporate number system is a 13-digit number assigned by the National Tax Agency to corporations and other entities based on the Act on the Use of Numbers to Identify Specific Individuals in Administrative Procedures. It serves as proof of official registration as a religious corporation belonging to the Association of Shinto Shrines.
History and Characteristics of Inari Shrines
Inari shrines are said to number over 30,000 nationwide, making them the most numerous type of shrine in Japan. The main deity is Ukanomitama-no-kami, and they are believed to bring blessings such as abundant harvests, business prosperity, and family safety. Several Inari shrines exist within Kazuno City, Akita Prefecture, each attracting local devotion.
This Inari shrine, located in Hanawa-aza-Terasaka, has also been cherished for many years as an object of faith deeply intertwined with the lives of local residents. As the place name Terasaka suggests, this area has a religious atmosphere with many temples and shrines.
About the Hanawa District of Kazuno City
Kazuno City is located in the northeastern part of Akita Prefecture, bordering Aomori and Iwate Prefectures. The Hanawa district is the central urban area of Kazuno City, and during the Edo period, it developed as a castle town of Hanawa Castle, which was under the control of the Morioka Domain. It continues to function as the administrative and economic center of Kazuno City.
The Hanawa district is also a region with a thriving festival culture, known for the “Hanawa Bayashi” festival. Held every August, the “Hanawa Bayashi” is one of the “Mountain, Float, and Procession Festivals” registered as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage, and symbolizes the region’s tradition and pride.
Aerial Photograph of Inari Shrine (88 Terasaka, Hanawa, Kazuno City, Akita Prefecture)
Viewing the Shrine’s Location with Aerial Photographs
By using aerial photographs and satellite images, it is possible to gain an overview of the surrounding environment and topography of Inari Shrine. Using online map services such as Google Maps, Yahoo! Maps, and the Geospatial Information Authority of Japan’s GSI Maps, you can switch to aerial photography mode to check the exact location of the shrine, surrounding buildings, and road conditions.
Surrounding Topographical Features
Hanawa-aza-Terasaka is located on relatively high ground within the Hanawa city area. As the name “Saka” (slope) suggests, it is characterized by undulating terrain. Residential areas spread out around the shrine, with a network of local roads.
Aerial photographs reveal that the area around the shrine is blessed with a lush green environment, maintaining harmony with nature despite being in an urban area. Because the entire city of Kazuno in Akita Prefecture is located in a mountainous region, the shrine offers views of the surrounding mountains.
How to Use Aerial Photographs
By checking aerial photographs before your visit, you can obtain the following information:
- Parking Availability and Location: Check parking spaces in advance if you are visiting by car.
- Condition of Surrounding Roads: Understand access routes and road widths.
- Size of Shrine Grounds: The size of the shrine grounds and the layout of the buildings.
- Nearby Facilities: Location of nearby convenience stores and public facilities.
This information is especially useful for first-time visitors.
Map of the Area Around Inari Shrine
Access Methods
Access by Public Transportation
The nearest station is Kazuno-Hanawa Station on the JR Hanawa Line. While it’s within walking distance from the station to Inari Shrine, there are hills, so those who are not confident in their physical fitness may want to consider taking a taxi. It’s approximately 1.5 km from Kazuno-Hanawa Station, about a 20-minute walk.
Access by Car
It takes about 10 minutes from the Kazuno-Hachimantai Interchange on the Tohoku Expressway. It can be accessed via National Route 282 and Prefectural Route 2. It’s also close to the center of Hanawa town, making it a familiar place for locals.
Car Navigation Settings
When using a car navigation system or smartphone map app, please enter the following information:
- Address: 88 Terasaka, Hanawa, Kazuno City, Akita Prefecture
- Postal Code: 〒018-5201
- Phone Number: (If the shrine’s phone number is publicly available)
Major Facilities in the Surrounding Area
The following facilities are located around Inari Shrine:
Public Facilities
- Kazuno City Hall: The city’s central administrative body
- Kazuno City Cultural Forest Exchange Center Comosse: Cultural facility and library
- Kazuno City Hanawa Elementary School: Local educational facility
Commercial Facilities
- Hanawa Shopping Street: A traditional shopping street with many local shops
- Convenience Stores: Multiple stores scattered throughout the city
- Supermarkets: Convenient for daily shopping
Tourist Facilities
- Kazuno City Historical and Folk Museum: A facility where you can learn about the local history
- Hanawa Ski Resort: Winter Leisure Spots
Parking Information in the Surrounding Area
Regarding parking specifically for the shrine, confirmation is required on-site. Generally, smaller shrines often have a few parking spaces on the grounds or adjacent land, but congestion is expected during major festivals and other events. In such cases, using public parking in the Hanawa town area and accessing the shrine on foot is also an option.
List of Nearby Shrines
There are several shrines in Kazuno City, Akita Prefecture, especially around the Hanawa area. Here are some nearby shrines you can consider visiting when you come to Inari Shrine.
Shrines in the Hanawa Area of Kazuno City
Inari Shrine (63 Shimonagane, Hanawa)
There is another Inari Shrine within the same Hanawa area of Kazuno City. Its address is 63 Shimonagane, Hanawa, Kazuno City, Akita Prefecture, and its corporate number is “4410005003366”. The presence of multiple Inari Shrines within the same Hanawa area speaks to the depth of Inari worship in this region.
Sakiwai Inari Shrine Otabisho
In the Hanawa district of Kazuno City, there is an Otabisho (temporary shrine) of Sakiwai Inari Shrine. While the main shrine is located at the foot of a mountain away from the city center, the Otabisho is located within the city and functions as a place to welcome the deity during the summer festival. This shrine is deeply connected to festival events such as the Hanawa Bayashi (musical chant).
Other Shrines in Kazuno City
Inari Shrine (58 Hachimantai, Hizon)
An Inari Shrine is also located in the Hachimantai district of Kazuno City. Its corporate number is “6410005003364,” and this number was also assigned on October 5, 2015. The Hachimantai district is located northwest of the Hanawa district and is a naturally rich area close to the Towada-Hachimantai National Park.
Dainichireiki Shrine (Hanawa)
This shrine is known as the guardian shrine of the Hanawa district. It is pronounced “Ōhirumemuchi Jinja” and enshrines Amaterasu Ōmikami as its main deity. It is an important shrine included in the Hanawa Bayashi procession route and is a central figure in local faith.
Ginzan Shrine
Kazuno City has a history of flourishing as a silver mine during the Edo period, and Ginzan Shrine is a shrine that conveys that history to the present day. It has been revered as the guardian deity of the mine.
Major Shrines in Neighboring Municipalities
Shrines Around the Ōyu Stone Circle
In the Ōyu district of Towada, Kazuno City, there is the Ōyu Stone Circle (Special Historic Site), a Jomon period archaeological site, and ancient places of worship exist in the surrounding area.
Shrines in Kosaka Town
The neighboring town of Kosaka also has many shrines, some reflecting its history as a former mining town.
Recommendation for Shrine Visits
Visiting shrines within Kazuno City allows for a deeper understanding of the region’s history, culture, and forms of faith. Each shrine has its own unique history and blessings, and is closely intertwined with the lives of local residents. If you have the time, why not enjoy a “shrine pilgrimage” by visiting several shrines?
Frequently Asked Questions about Inari Shrines in Kazuno City, Akita Prefecture
How many Inari shrines are there in Kazuno City?
There are at least three Inari shrines that can be confirmed within Kazuno City, Akita Prefecture. They are located at 88 Terasaka, Hanawa; 63 Shimonagane, Hanawa; and 58 Nichison, Hachimantai. Each is an independent shrine with a different corporate number. They have parishioners in each region and are revered in their respective areas.
Are there specific visiting hours for Inari shrines?
Generally, many shrines are open for worship 24 hours, but the hours when the shrine office is open and when you can receive a Goshuin (shrine stamp) are limited. For specific visiting hours and office hours for Inari Shrine (88 Terasaka, Hanawa), it is recommended to contact the shrine directly or check before visiting. When visiting early in the morning or after sunset, please be considerate of the surrounding residents.
Can I get a Goshuin (temple/shrine stamp)?
The availability of Goshuin varies depending on the size of the shrine and whether or not there is a resident priest. Smaller shrines may not always offer Goshuin. If you wish to receive a Goshuin, it is recommended to check with the shrine or the Akita Prefecture Branch of the Association of Shinto Shrines, which manages shrines in Kazuno City, in advance.
When are festivals and annual festivals held?
The dates of annual festivals and major festivals at Inari shrines vary from shrine to shrine. Generally, Hatsuumai (the first Day of the Horse in February) is considered an important festival day at Inari shrines. Also, during the Hanawa Bayashi festival (August 19th and 20th every year), which is the festival for the entire Hanawa district, local shrines also become lively.
Is there parking?
Whether or not there is a dedicated parking lot for the shrine needs to be checked on-site. Smaller shrines often only have a few parking spaces on the grounds. During major festivals and other events, congestion is expected, so please consider using public transportation or public parking lots in the city center.
What are the characteristics of Inari shrines in Akita Prefecture?
Akita Prefecture has numerous Inari shrines, and due to the region’s thriving agriculture, the belief in praying for a bountiful harvest remains strong. In commercial areas, they are worshipped as gods of business prosperity, and in residential areas, as guardians of household safety. Many Inari shrines in Akita Prefecture also play a central role in local communities, serving as places to deepen community bonds through festivals.
What are the characteristics of shrine culture in Kazuno City?
Kazuno City is located in the northern part of Akita Prefecture and has long been influenced by the Nanbu Domain (Morioka Domain). Therefore, the style of shrines and the forms of festivals sometimes show characteristics of the Nanbu region. Also, due to its history as a mining town, there are shrines dedicated to the guardian deities of the mines. As exemplified by the Hanawa Bayashi festival, festival culture is very vibrant, and shrines play a central role in it.
Kazuno City is located in the northern part of Akita Prefecture and has been influenced by the Nanbu Domain (Morioka Domain) since ancient times. Therefore, the style of shrines and the forms of festivals sometimes show characteristics of the Nanbu region. Furthermore, due to its history as a mining town, there are also shrines dedicated to the guardian deities of the mines. Festival culture is very active, as exemplified by the Hanawa Bayashi festival, and shrines play a central role in it.
How to Use on a Smartphone
Using Maps on Mobile Devices
In modern times, you can easily search for information about shrines and use navigation to get there using mobile devices such as smartphones and tablets. When visiting Inari Shrine (88 Terasaka, Hanawa, Kazuno City, Akita Prefecture), you can use your smartphone in the following ways:
Using Google Maps
By entering “88 Terasaka, Hanawa, Kazuno City, Akita Prefecture” into the Google Maps app, you can accurately display the shrine’s location. Using the route search function from your current location, the optimal route and travel time for walking, driving, and public transport will be displayed.
Using Yahoo! Maps and NAVITIME
Yahoo! Maps and NAVITIME, which are strong in detailed information about Japan, are also useful. These apps display detailed information about surrounding facilities and walking routes from bus stops and train stations.
Preparing Offline Maps
In mountainous areas or places with unstable signal reception, the offline map function, which allows you to download map data in advance, is useful. Google Maps allows you to download maps of specific areas in advance. ### Utilizing Shrine Information Apps
Goshuin (Shrine/Temple Stamp) Management Apps
Specialized shrine and temple apps such as “Hotokami” and “Goshuin Map” allow you to search for shrine information nationwide and manage your visit records and goshuin. Other visitors’ reviews and photos are also helpful.
Utilizing AR Functionality
Some map apps have AR (Augmented Reality) functionality that overlays direction and distance information onto the real-world landscape through your smartphone’s camera. You can reach your destination without getting lost, even in unfamiliar places.
Using QR Codes on Smartphones
Sharing Information via QR Codes
By utilizing QR codes (two-dimensional barcodes), you can quickly share shrine information and easily access it via smartphone.
QR Code Location Information
Map services such as Google Maps can generate a URL for a specific location and convert it into a QR code. By scanning this QR code, anyone can easily access the location information of Inari Shrine.
How to Generate a QR Code
- Search for “88 Terasaka, Hanawa, Kazuno City, Akita Prefecture” on Google Maps.
- Tap the “Share” button.
- Copy the displayed URL.
- Enter the URL into a QR code generation website (e.g., QR Code Creator [Free]).
- Save and print the generated QR code.
Scenarios for Using QR Codes
- Inclusion in local tourist brochures and maps
- Placement on shrine information boards
- Information sharing on social media
- Event flyers and posters
Fusion of Digital Technology and Traditional Culture
In recent years, many shrines have been actively incorporating digital technology. New forms of faith are being explored, such as electronic goshuin (shrine stamps), online prayers, and live streaming of festivals. These are not intended to undermine tradition, but rather to convey the charm of shrines to more people and make faith feel more accessible.
Kazuno City Tourism and Shrine Visits
The Charms of Kazuno City
When visiting Inari Shrine, we recommend enjoying other tourist spots in Kazuno City as well. Natural Charm
Kazuno City is a naturally rich area that includes part of the Towada-Hachimantai National Park. You can enjoy the beauty of nature throughout the seasons, from the alpine plants of Hachimantai and the stunning scenery of Lake Towada to the hot springs of Oyu Onsenkyo.
History and Culture
The Oyu Stone Circle is designated as a National Special Historic Site, dating back to the late Jomon period. It is believed to be the site of a ritual place approximately 4,000 years ago, offering insights into the beliefs of ancient people.
Cuisine
Kazuno City is a production area for branded meats such as “Kazuno Beef” and “Momobuta Pork,” as well as peaches known as “the northernmost peaches.” It is also considered one of the birthplaces of kiritanpo (rice dumplings), allowing you to enjoy the authentic taste.
Year-Round Festivals
Hanawa Bayashi (August 19th & 20th)
This is a magnificent festival registered as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage. Ten festival floats parade through the town, and the sounds of flutes and drums resonate throughout the night.
Kemanai Bon Odori (August 21st-23rd)
This elegant Bon Odori dance is designated as a National Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property. It is a traditional event said to have a history of approximately 700 years.
Dainichido Bugaku (January 2nd)
This is a nationally designated Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property, a traditional and elegant Bugaku dance performed during the New Year.
Summary
The Inari Shrine, located at 88 Terasaka, Hanawa, Kazuno City, Akita Prefecture, is a formal religious corporation with corporate number 5410005003365, and is a shrine that attracts the faith of the local community. There are several Inari Shrines in Kazuno City, each playing a central role in the local community.
When planning a visit, you can easily access the shrine by using a smartphone map app or QR code. Furthermore, visiting during festivals such as the Hanawa Bayashi festival will allow you to truly experience the deep connection between the shrine and the local culture.
Kazuno City is a region with diverse attractions, including nature, history, culture, and gourmet food. Start your visit to the Inari Shrine and fully enjoy the charms of this region. The shrine is not merely a tourist spot, but a sacred place imbued with the prayers and wishes of the local people. When visiting, please show respect for its history and traditions, and strive to pray with a calm and peaceful heart.
