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Hatsuuma Festival: Visiting Inari Shrines in February

Hatsuuma, the first Day of the Horse in February, is the most festive day at Inari shrines across Japan. Learn about the history, customs, and the best way to visit.

Contents

MOKUJI

What Is Hatsuuma?

›

Fushimi Inari Taisha

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Proper Etiquette at Inari Shrines

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The Story of Inarizushi

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Nearby Kyoto Spots

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Festival Calendar

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FAQ

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What Is Hatsuuma?

Hatsuuma (the first Day of the Horse in February) is the most important festival day at Inari shrines throughout Japan. According to tradition, the Inari deity descended onto Mount Inari in Fushimi, Kyoto on this day in 711 CE. In 2026, Hatsuuma falls on February 7 (Saturday), making it a perfect weekend visit.

Fushimi Inari Taisha

Fushimi Inari Taisha is the head shrine of all Inari shrines in Japan. The iconic Senbon Torii (thousands of vermilion torii gates) are especially stunning at dawn. Arriving before 7:00 AM lets you experience the gates in peaceful morning light before the crowds arrive.

The full Oyama (mountain circuit) is about 4 km and takes 2-3 hours. Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring water.

Proper Etiquette at Inari Shrines

What to bring:

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Hatsuryou (offering envelope, 500-1,000 yen)

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Comfortable shoes for mountain shrines

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Small coins for offerings

Steps for proper worship:

Bow lightly before passing through the torii gate

Walk along the side of the path, not the center

Purify your hands at the temizuya (water basin)

At the main hall: two bows, two claps, one bow

The Story of Inarizushi

Deep-fried tofu pouches (aburaage) are the traditional offering at Inari shrines — fox spirits (kitsune), the divine messengers of Inari, were believed to love them. This tradition gave birth to Inarizushi, the beloved rice-filled tofu pockets found at vendors near shrine precincts during Hatsuuma.

Nearby Kyoto Spots

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Kitano Tenmangu: plum blossoms usually peak in mid-February, just around Hatsuuma

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Kiyomizudera: 30 minutes by bus from Fushimi Inari; early spring scenery

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Nishi Honganji: 15 minutes walk from Kyoto Station; National Treasure gates

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Daitokuji: 22 sub-temples with serene karesansui gardens

Festival Calendar

Year

Hatsuuma Date

Day

2026

Feb 7

Saturday

2027

Feb 12

Friday

2028

Feb 1

Tuesday

FAQ

Does Hatsuuma fall on the same date every year?

No. Hatsuuma is the first “Day of the Horse” (one of the 12 zodiac days) in February, so the date changes annually.

Do people worship foxes at Inari shrines?

No. Foxes (kitsune) are divine messengers of the Inari deity, not the deity itself. Worship is directed at Inari Okami (particularly Ukanomitama-no-Kami, deity of food and agriculture).

Is Fushimi Inari Taisha open during Hatsuuma?

The shrine precincts are open 24 hours year-round. The amulet office operates approximately 9:00-16:00. On Hatsuuma, special ceremonies are held from the morning.

Last updated: May 2026

伏見稲荷大社, related to 初午と稲荷祭