A Cascade of Red “Torii”: Aomori’s Takayama Inari Shrine

The vermillion senbon torii (one-thousand gates) stands out against the green of the Japanese garden and surrounding forest.

A large torii towers near the entrance of Takayama Inari Shrine.

Another large gate stands at the bottom of the steps leading to the haiden, the hall where worshippers pray, and the senbon torii beyond.

The senbon torii starts at the Ryūjingū, the shrine to the dragon god.

The line of torii passes next to a pond on the grounds, creating a beautiful scene.

The red gates snake past the pond and climb skyward.

A tunnel of vermillion torii. The gates are protected from the elements by a coat of weatherproof paint.

The observation deck is an ideal photo spot.

Careful observation reveals the different features of the shrine’s many stone foxes.

Takayama Inari’s haiden stands atop a hill.

The top of the Sannō gate features a design representing the wind and waves. The Sannō Shrine can be seen in the distance.

The simple Myōbu Shrine is popular with individuals looking for love.