Inaba Shrine

Located at the foot of Mount Kinka in Gifu, surrounded by cherry trees and other flora, lies a serene shrine well-known as a power spot. This shrine has a history spanning over 1900 years and is deeply revered as the "God of Flood Control" due to the many water and gold-related geographical names in the area that suggest its protective influence over these elements.

In 1539, the warlord Saito Dosan relocated the shrine to its current location at the base of the mountain when he established his residence in Gifu Castle on Mount Kinka. Locally known affectionately as "Inaba-san," the shrine attracts a large number of visitors seeking blessings not just for water and construction projects, but also for household safety, business prosperity, safe childbirth, and traffic safety.

The approach to the main hall is a gentle slope, offering a natural sanctuary that soothes visitors as they depart. Every year, on the first Saturday of April, the Gifu Festival is held, featuring parade floats and portable shrines from around the city, attracting a lively crowd. The area also becomes a popular spot for viewing the blossoming of hundreds of cherry trees, including weeping cherries.