Sanzo Inari Shrine

 

Sanzo Inari Shrine  lies within the grounds of Fukuyama Castle and was established at the same time as the castle in the early 17th century.

It is quite a popular shrine in the city, and was supported by the various lords of the castle.

There is a Noh stage, but I have been unable to find out any significance to the oval of white gravel that is bisected by the approach to the main hall.

Here, the main kami enshrined is, like everywhere now, officially Uganomitama, a daughter of Susanoo.

Jointly enshrined here are Sarutahiko and Uzume, though Uzume is given a different name.

As is common at most major Inari shrines there are numerous small shrines and altars to a wide variety of Inaris.

A local legend tells of a mysterious samurai guard who would appear when the daimyo was travelling and who claimed to be Sanzo a manifestation of Inari from this shrine.

The shrine has a unique festival when the Miss Sanzo Inari Beauty Contest chooses three young, unmarried women to serve as Miko during the new year.

The previous post was on the neighbouring garden, the Fukuju Kaikan Garden.