We got off at Hiroshima Shinkansen Station and hiked uphill through a quiet graveyard to the Peace Pagoda on Mt. Futaba, a white dome perched on Futabayama Hill. At the summit, we met a fit older man practicing his baseball swing, who pointed us toward a path leading down the hill. The trail meandered a primordial forest, filled with hillside shrines adorned with fox statues, and torii gates.
Inari shrines are often found near Buddhist temples and sacred sites. The foxes symbolize protection—not only for the pagoda but also for its message of peace. Their presence reflects both spiritual and cultural roles, guarding sacred spaces while promoting peace, prosperity, and harmony.