Nanten inari
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Nanten inari

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A shrine dedicated to Nandina, believed to transform hardship into blessing. Located at the top of 108 stone steps that dispel earthly desires.

Inari has long been revered as the deity of agriculture who grants abundant harvests of the five grains, but today is widely beloved as a god who brings good fortune and prosperity. This location was named "Nantenari Inari" based on a clever wordplay: because nanten (heavenly bamboo) trees grew abundantly in the area, the name references the homophone meaning "to turn hardship into good fortune." To pay respects at this shrine, visitors must ascend 108 steps, believed to purify the 108 worldly desires and passions. With each step, one cleanses the spirit, and upon reaching the top, one can offer prayers to Nantenari Inari—the shrine that transforms adversity into blessing.

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