Place of worship • 15 Tōsenjichō, Yamatokoriyama, Nara 639-1144, Japan
As I walked along the paths of Yamatokoriyama City, the leaves of the trees shone brilliantly in the morning sun shining through the lattice doors. There stood the historic Genkurou Inari Shrine. Stepping into the grounds, the vibrant vermillion color of the shrine peeked through the refreshing grove of trees.
Genkurou Inari Shrine is a shrine associated with Minamoto no Yoshitsune, who visited this area during his warrior training. A statue of Yoshitsune is enshrined in the grounds, giving off the glamorous atmosphere of the Heian period. Chic fox statues are dotted here and there, creating an addictive taste throughout the precincts.
Visiting in the cool morning hours, local grandmothers were already skillfully cleaning the grounds. The view of the grounds through the glass door was like a beautiful, emotional painting. I felt as if I could catch a glimpse of the gentle hearts of the people in the carefully maintained flowers.
Inside the bustling small office where people come to seek amulets, a friendly head priest welcomes everyone. The unique fox goshuin is filled with the warmth of hand-drawn lines. With many visits from Kabuki actors, the scent of traditional performing arts seems to linger.
Genkurou Inari Shrine, adorned with a chic appearance and a historical romance, is a hidden healing space in Yamatokoriyama. If there were a shrine like this nearby, I would probably rush to help out on a Sunday morning.
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