伏見稲荷大社の魅力を英語で説明・紹介するための基本情報と、英会話に役立つ表現をシンプルでわかりやすい英語で紹介します。
英会話ダイアローグ・関連情報・10の質問を通して、伏見稲荷大社に関する英語表現を学びます。
英語
英会話ダイアローグを読む前に知っておくと良い前提知識と情報です。
- 伏見稲荷大社の概要
- 京都にある日本全国の稲荷神社の総本社
- 稲荷神（稲荷大神）は、稲作や農業、商売繁盛の神として信仰されている
- 狐の役割
- 狐（キツネ）は稲荷神の使者とされ、神と人間をつなぐ存在とされる
- 境内には多数の狐像があり、特に鍵や巻物をくわえた姿が見られる
- 朱色の鳥居
- 朱色の鳥居は、邪気を払う色として信仰されている
- 「千本鳥居」は、1万本以上の鳥居が連なるトンネルのような参道
- アクセス方法
- 京都駅からJR奈良線で約5分の「稲荷駅」が最寄り
- 京阪本線「伏見稲荷駅」からも徒歩5分
2人が伏見稲荷大社について話しています。
伏見稲荷大社の歴史、祭神である稲荷大神、狐の役割、千本鳥居、アクセス方法などを話題にしています。
会話 / dialogue
Hey Key, I’ve been thinking about visiting Fushimi Inari Taisha. Have you ever been there?
Yes, I have! It’s one of the most impressive shrines in Kyoto. What made you interested in it?
I’ve heard a lot about the place, especially about the thousands of red torii gates. I’m curious to know more about it before I go.
You’re in for a treat. Fushimi Inari Taisha is actually the head shrine of all Inari shrines in Japan, which means it’s the most important one. It’s dedicated to Inari Ōkami, the god of rice, agriculture, and business prosperity.
I didn’t realize it was that significant. And what’s the deal with the fox statues everywhere?
The foxes, or kitsune, are believed to be the messengers of Inari. They play a crucial role in the shrine’s spiritual practices, symbolizing protection and communication between the gods and humans.
That’s fascinating. I’ve also read that the torii gates are bright red. Why is that?
The torii are painted vermilion, a color that’s believed to ward off evil spirits and bring good fortune. The color also represents life and energy. And there are over 10,000 torii gates at Fushimi Inari, many of which form the famous “Senbon Torii,” or “Thousand Torii Gates.”
Wow, over 10,000? That’s incredible. Why are there so many gates?
Each torii gate is actually donated by individuals or businesses who want to give thanks for their blessings or wish for prosperity in the future. It’s a tradition that started back in the Edo period and continues today.
I see. What about the history of the shrine? How old is it?
The shrine was founded in 711 AD, so it’s over 1,300 years old. It’s been a central place of worship for centuries, and its importance has only grown over time. Today, it attracts millions of visitors every year.
That’s impressive. I heard there’s also a hiking trail?
Yes, there is. The trail goes up Mount Inari and is about 4 kilometers long. It’s a bit of a hike, but the views of Kyoto from the top are worth it. Plus, along the way, you’ll pass by smaller shrines and even more torii gates.
It sounds like a great experience. Is it easy to get there?
Definitely. You can take the JR Nara Line from Kyoto Station to Inari Station, which takes about 5 minutes. The shrine entrance is right in front of the station. You can also take the Keihan Line to Fushimi-Inari Station, which is just a short walk away.
That sounds convenient. I’m really excited to visit now.
You should be! It’s a unique place, rich in history and culture. I’m sure you’ll have a memorable experience there.
Thanks, Key. I’ll definitely go soon and check it out.
No problem, Mack. Enjoy your visit to Fushimi Inari Taisha!
関連情報 / related information
「伏見稲荷大社」について、理解を深めるための「英語での関連情報」です。
伏見稲荷大社
Introduction to Fushimi Inari Taisha
Fushimi Inari Taisha is one of Japan’s most famous shrines, located in Kyoto. It is the head shrine of all Inari shrines in the country, which totals around 30,000. The shrine is dedicated to Inari Ōkami, the god of rice, agriculture, and prosperity. Many people visit Fushimi Inari to pray for success in business and good harvests.
The Role of Foxes
Foxes, or kitsune, are believed to be the messengers of Inari. At Fushimi Inari Taisha, you can see many fox statues throughout the grounds. These foxes often hold items like keys or rice stalks, symbolizing their role in bringing good fortune and protection.
The Iconic Red Torii Gates
One of the most famous features of Fushimi Inari Taisha is the thousands of red torii gates. These gates form long, tunnel-like paths that lead up Mount Inari. Each gate is donated by individuals or businesses as a way to show gratitude or to wish for prosperity. The red color is believed to protect against evil spirits.
Visiting the Shrine
Fushimi Inari Taisha is open 24 hours a day, and there is no entrance fee. It is easily accessible from Kyoto Station, with a short train ride on the JR Nara Line to Inari Station. From there, the shrine’s entrance is just a short walk away. Many visitors also enjoy hiking the trails up Mount Inari, where they can experience the beauty and spirituality of the shrine.
10の質問 / 10 questions
「伏見稲荷大社」について、理解を深めるための「英語での10の質問」です。
1: What is Fushimi Inari Taisha?
Fushimi Inari Taisha is a famous Shinto shrine in Kyoto, Japan. It is the head shrine of all Inari shrines in Japan and is dedicated to Inari Ōkami, the god of rice, agriculture, and prosperity.
2: Why are there so many torii gates at Fushimi Inari Taisha?
The thousands of torii gates at Fushimi Inari Taisha are donated by individuals and businesses to show gratitude for blessings or to pray for future prosperity. The red color of the gates is believed to protect against evil spirits.
3: What role do foxes play at Fushimi Inari Taisha?
Foxes, or kitsune, are considered the messengers of Inari, the god worshipped at Fushimi Inari Taisha. They are believed to protect the shrine and its visitors, and many fox statues can be found throughout the shrine grounds.
4: What is the significance of the red color of the torii gates?
The red color of the torii gates at Fushimi Inari Taisha is believed to have protective qualities, keeping away evil spirits and bringing good fortune. The color also symbolizes life and energy.
5: How old is Fushimi Inari Taisha?
Fushimi Inari Taisha was founded in 711 AD, making it over 1,300 years old. It has been a central place of worship for centuries and continues to attract millions of visitors each year.
6: What can visitors expect when hiking up Mount Inari?
Visitors can expect a scenic hike up Mount Inari, passing through thousands of red torii gates and several smaller shrines. The trail is about 4 kilometers long, and the views of Kyoto from the top are breathtaking.
7: How can I get to Fushimi Inari Taisha?
Fushimi Inari Taisha is easily accessible from Kyoto Station. You can take the JR Nara Line to Inari Station, which is just a 5-minute ride. The shrine entrance is right in front of the station.
8: What is the role of Inari Ōkami at Fushimi Inari Taisha?
Inari Ōkami, the god worshipped at Fushimi Inari Taisha, is the deity of rice, agriculture, and prosperity. People pray to Inari for success in business, good harvests, and overall well-being.
9: Why is Fushimi Inari Taisha so famous?
Fushimi Inari Taisha is famous for its thousands of red torii gates, its historical significance as the head shrine of all Inari shrines, and its beautiful hiking trails on Mount Inari. It is also a popular spot for tourists and pilgrims.
10: Are there any special events or festivals at Fushimi Inari Taisha?
Yes, Fushimi Inari Taisha hosts several festivals throughout the year, including the Hatsu-uma Festival in February and the Inari Matsuri in spring. These events attract many visitors and are a great way to experience Japanese culture.
和訳付
会話 / dialogue
Hey Key, I’ve been thinking about visiting Fushimi Inari Taisha. Have you ever been there?
ねえキー、伏見稲荷大社に行ってみようと思ってるんだけど、行ったことある？
Yes, I have! It’s one of the most impressive shrines in Kyoto. What made you interested in it?
うん、あるよ！京都でもっとも印象的な神社の一つだよ。どうして興味を持ったの？
I’ve heard a lot about the place, especially about the thousands of red torii gates. I’m curious to know more about it before I go.
ここについてよく聞くんだ、特に何千本もの赤い鳥居のこととか。行く前にもっと知りたくてさ。
You’re in for a treat. Fushimi Inari Taisha is actually the head shrine of all Inari shrines in Japan, which means it’s the most important one. It’s dedicated to Inari Ōkami, the god of rice, agriculture, and business prosperity.
それは楽しみだね。伏見稲荷大社は日本中の稲荷神社の総本宮で、一番重要な神社なんだ。稲作、農業、そして商売繁盛の神である稲荷大神を祀っているんだよ。
I didn’t realize it was that significant. And what’s the deal with the fox statues everywhere?
そんなに重要な場所だとは知らなかったよ。ところで、あちこちにある狐の像はどういう意味があるの？
The foxes, or kitsune, are believed to be the messengers of Inari. They play a crucial role in the shrine’s spiritual practices, symbolizing protection and communication between the gods and humans.
狐、つまりキツネは稲荷の使者と信じられているんだ。神と人間の間を取り持ち、守護する象徴として、神社の霊的な儀式において重要な役割を果たしているんだよ。
That’s fascinating. I’ve also read that the torii gates are bright red. Why is that?
それは興味深いね。あと、鳥居が鮮やかな赤色だって読んだんだけど、どうしてなの？
The torii are painted vermilion, a color that’s believed to ward off evil spirits and bring good fortune. The color also represents life and energy. And there are over 10,000 torii gates at Fushimi Inari, many of which form the famous “Senbon Torii,” or “Thousand Torii Gates.”
鳥居は朱色に塗られていて、邪悪なものを遠ざけ、幸運をもたらすと信じられているんだ。この色は生命力やエネルギーも象徴しているよ。伏見稲荷には1万本以上の鳥居があって、その多くが有名な「千本鳥居」を形成しているんだ。
Wow, over 10,000? That’s incredible. Why are there so many gates?
うわぁ、1万本以上？すごいね。なんでそんなにたくさんの鳥居があるの？
Each torii gate is actually donated by individuals or businesses who want to give thanks for their blessings or wish for prosperity in the future. It’s a tradition that started back in the Edo period and continues today.
実は、鳥居の一本一本は、恩恵に感謝したり、将来の繁栄を願ったりする個人や企業によって寄進されているんだ。この伝統は江戸時代から始まって、今でも続いているんだよ。
I see. What about the history of the shrine? How old is it?
なるほど。神社の歴史についてはどう？どれくらい古いの？
The shrine was founded in 711 AD, so it’s over 1,300 years old. It’s been a central place of worship for centuries, and its importance has only grown over time. Today, it attracts millions of visitors every year.
神社は西暦711年に創建されたから、もう1300年以上の歴史があるんだ。何世紀にもわたって信仰の中心であり、その重要性はますます高まっているんだ。現在では、毎年数百万人の訪問者を引きつけているよ。
That’s impressive. I heard there’s also a hiking trail?
それはすごいね。ハイキングコースもあるって聞いたけど？
Yes, there is. The trail goes up Mount Inari and is about 4 kilometers long. It’s a bit of a hike, but the views of Kyoto from the top are worth it. Plus, along the way, you’ll pass by smaller shrines and even more torii gates.
うん、あるよ。稲荷山を登るコースで、約4キロメートルの距離があるんだ。ちょっとしたハイキングだけど、山頂から見る京都の景色は絶景だよ。それに、途中には小さな祠やさらに多くの鳥居もあるんだ。
It sounds like a great experience. Is it easy to get there?
それは素晴らしい体験になりそうだね。アクセスは簡単？
Definitely. You can take the JR Nara Line from Kyoto Station to Inari Station, which takes about 5 minutes. The shrine entrance is right in front of the station. You can also take the Keihan Line to Fushimi-Inari Station, which is just a short walk away.
もちろん。京都駅からJR奈良線で稲荷駅まで行くと、約5分だよ。駅を出たらすぐに神社の入口があるんだ。京阪電鉄を使う場合は、伏見稲荷駅から歩いてすぐだよ。
That sounds convenient. I’m really excited to visit now.
便利そうだね。ますます行くのが楽しみになってきたよ。
You should be! It’s a unique place, rich in history and culture. I’m sure you’ll have a memorable experience there.
そうだね！歴史と文化に富んだ特別な場所だから、きっと素晴らしい体験ができるよ。
Thanks, Key. I’ll definitely go soon and check it out.
ありがとう、キー。近いうちに絶対に行ってみるよ。
No problem, Mack. Enjoy your visit to Fushimi Inari Taisha!
どういたしまして、マック。伏見稲荷大社を楽しんでね！
関連情報 / related information
伏見稲荷大社
Introduction to Fushimi Inari Taisha
Fushimi Inari Taisha is one of Japan’s most famous shrines, located in Kyoto. It is the head shrine of all Inari shrines in the country, which totals around 30,000. The shrine is dedicated to Inari Ōkami, the god of rice, agriculture, and prosperity. Many people visit Fushimi Inari to pray for success in business and good harvests.
伏見稲荷大社は、京都にある日本で最も有名な神社の一つです。日本全国に約3万社ある稲荷神社の総本宮です。この神社は、稲作、農業、繁栄の神である稲荷大神を祀っています。多くの人々が商売繁盛や豊作を祈願するために訪れます。
The Role of Foxes
Foxes, or kitsune, are believed to be the messengers of Inari. At Fushimi Inari Taisha, you can see many fox statues throughout the grounds. These foxes often hold items like keys or rice stalks, symbolizing their role in bringing good fortune and protection.
狐、つまりキツネは、稲荷の使者と信じられています。伏見稲荷大社の境内には、至るところに多くの狐像があります。これらの狐は、しばしば鍵や稲の穂などを持っており、幸運や保護をもたらす役割を象徴しています。
The Iconic Red Torii Gates
One of the most famous features of Fushimi Inari Taisha is the thousands of red torii gates. These gates form long, tunnel-like paths that lead up Mount Inari. Each gate is donated by individuals or businesses as a way to show gratitude or to wish for prosperity. The red color is believed to protect against evil spirits.
伏見稲荷大社の最も有名な特徴の一つが、何千本もの赤い鳥居です。これらの鳥居は、稲荷山へ続く長いトンネルのような道を形成しています。各鳥居は、感謝の意を表したり、繁栄を願ったりする個人や企業によって寄進されたものです。赤い色は邪悪な霊を遠ざけると信じられています。
Visiting the Shrine
Fushimi Inari Taisha is open 24 hours a day, and there is no entrance fee. It is easily accessible from Kyoto Station, with a short train ride on the JR Nara Line to Inari Station. From there, the shrine’s entrance is just a short walk away. Many visitors also enjoy hiking the trails up Mount Inari, where they can experience the beauty and spirituality of the shrine.
伏見稲荷大社は24時間開いており、入場料は無料です。京都駅からJR奈良線で稲荷駅までの短い電車の旅で簡単にアクセスできます。そこから、神社の入り口までは徒歩ですぐです。多くの訪問者は、稲荷山を登るハイキングコースを楽しみながら、神社の美しさと霊性を体験しています。
10の質問 / 10 questions
1: What is Fushimi Inari Taisha?
伏見稲荷大社とは何ですか？
Fushimi Inari Taisha is a famous Shinto shrine in Kyoto, Japan. It is the head shrine of all Inari shrines in Japan and is dedicated to Inari Ōkami, the god of rice, agriculture, and prosperity.
伏見稲荷大社は、京都にある有名な神社です。日本全国の稲荷神社の総本宮であり、稲作、農業、繁栄の神である稲荷大神を祀っています。
2: Why are there so many torii gates at Fushimi Inari Taisha?
伏見稲荷大社にはなぜこんなに多くの鳥居があるのですか？
The thousands of torii gates at Fushimi Inari Taisha are donated by individuals and businesses to show gratitude for blessings or to pray for future prosperity. The red color of the gates is believed to protect against evil spirits.
伏見稲荷大社にある何千本もの鳥居は、恩恵に感謝したり、将来の繁栄を祈願するために個人や企業によって寄進されたものです。鳥居の赤色は、邪悪な霊を遠ざけると信じられています。
3: What role do foxes play at Fushimi Inari Taisha?
伏見稲荷大社で狐はどのような役割を果たしていますか？
Foxes, or kitsune, are considered the messengers of Inari, the god worshipped at Fushimi Inari Taisha. They are believed to protect the shrine and its visitors, and many fox statues can be found throughout the shrine grounds.
狐、つまりキツネは、伏見稲荷大社で祀られている稲荷神の使者と考えられています。狐は神社と参拝者を守る存在とされ、境内には多くの狐の像が見られます。
4: What is the significance of the red color of the torii gates?
鳥居の赤色にはどのような意味がありますか？
The red color of the torii gates at Fushimi Inari Taisha is believed to have protective qualities, keeping away evil spirits and bringing good fortune. The color also symbolizes life and energy.
伏見稲荷大社の鳥居の赤色は、邪悪な霊を遠ざけ、幸運をもたらすと信じられています。また、この色は生命力とエネルギーを象徴しています。
5: How old is Fushimi Inari Taisha?
伏見稲荷大社はどれくらい古いですか？
Fushimi Inari Taisha was founded in 711 AD, making it over 1,300 years old. It has been a central place of worship for centuries and continues to attract millions of visitors each year.
伏見稲荷大社は西暦711年に創建され、1300年以上の歴史があります。何世紀にもわたり信仰の中心であり続け、毎年数百万人の訪問者を引きつけています。
6: What can visitors expect when hiking up Mount Inari?
稲荷山を登る際に訪問者は何を期待できますか？
Visitors can expect a scenic hike up Mount Inari, passing through thousands of red torii gates and several smaller shrines. The trail is about 4 kilometers long, and the views of Kyoto from the top are breathtaking.
訪問者は、何千本もの赤い鳥居やいくつかの小さな祠を通りながら、景色の良い稲荷山のハイキングを楽しむことができます。登山道は約4キロメートルの長さで、山頂からの京都の景色は息をのむ美しさです。
7: How can I get to Fushimi Inari Taisha?
伏見稲荷大社への行き方は？
Fushimi Inari Taisha is easily accessible from Kyoto Station. You can take the JR Nara Line to Inari Station, which is just a 5-minute ride. The shrine entrance is right in front of the station.
伏見稲荷大社は京都駅から簡単にアクセスできます。JR奈良線で稲荷駅まで行けば、約5分で到着します。神社の入り口は駅のすぐ前にあります。
8: What is the role of Inari Ōkami at Fushimi Inari Taisha?
伏見稲荷大社での稲荷大神の役割は？
Inari Ōkami, the god worshipped at Fushimi Inari Taisha, is the deity of rice, agriculture, and prosperity. People pray to Inari for success in business, good harvests, and overall well-being.
伏見稲荷大社で祀られている稲荷大神は、稲作、農業、繁栄の神です。人々は商売繁盛や豊作、そして全般的な幸福を祈願します。
9: Why is Fushimi Inari Taisha so famous?
伏見稲荷大社はなぜ有名なのですか？
Fushimi Inari Taisha is famous for its thousands of red torii gates, its historical significance as the head shrine of all Inari shrines, and its beautiful hiking trails on Mount Inari. It is also a popular spot for tourists and pilgrims.
伏見稲荷大社は、何千本もの赤い鳥居、日本全国の稲荷神社の総本宮としての歴史的意義、そして稲荷山の美しいハイキングコースで有名です。また、観光客や巡礼者に人気のスポットでもあります。
10: Are there any special events or festivals at Fushimi Inari Taisha?
伏見稲荷大社には特別な行事や祭りがありますか？
Yes, Fushimi Inari Taisha hosts several festivals throughout the year, including the Hatsu-uma Festival in February and the Inari Matsuri in spring. These events attract many visitors and are a great way to experience Japanese culture.
はい、伏見稲荷大社では、2月の初午祭や春の稲荷祭など、年間を通じていくつかの祭りが行われます。これらの行事は多くの訪問者を引きつけ、日本文化を体験する素晴らしい機会です。
words & phrases
英会話ダイアローグと関連情報に出てきた単語・フレーズです（例文は各３つ）。
be in for a treat : イディオム
意味: 素晴らしい経験や驚きを楽しみにしていること。To expect something enjoyable or pleasantly surprising.
（伏見稲荷大社の訪問が楽しい体験になることを伝えるために使用）
例文：
- You’re in for a treat with this new movie.
「この新しい映画は楽しみにしていてね。」 - If you love Japanese food, you’re in for a treat at this restaurant.
「日本食が好きなら、このレストランで素晴らしい経験が待っていますよ。」 - The concert tonight will be amazing—you’re in for a treat!
「今夜のコンサートは素晴らしいものになるよ。楽しみにしていて！」
dedicated : 形容詞
意味: 何かに捧げられた、または献身的な。Devoted to a task or purpose; used for a specific purpose.
（伏見稲荷大社が稲荷大神に捧げられていることを説明するために使用）
例文：
- This building is dedicated to scientific research.
「この建物は科学研究に捧げられています。」 - She is a dedicated teacher who always puts her students first.
「彼女は常に生徒を第一に考える献身的な教師です。」 - The book is dedicated to the author’s parents.
「その本は著者の両親に捧げられています。」
vermilion : 名詞、形容詞
意味: 鮮やかな朱色。A bright red to reddish-orange color.
（伏見稲荷大社の鳥居の色を表すために使用）
例文：
- The artist used vermilion to paint the sunset.
「その画家は夕焼けを描くのに朱色を使いました。」 - Her dress was a striking vermilion.
「彼女のドレスは鮮やかな朱色でした。」 - The walls were painted vermilion to match the traditional decor.
「壁は伝統的な装飾に合わせて朱色に塗られました。」
ward off : 句動詞
意味: 何か悪いことを防ぐ、または遠ざける。To prevent or repel something undesirable.
（鳥居の赤色が邪悪なものを遠ざけると信じられていることを説明するために使用）
例文：
- Garlic is believed to ward off vampires.
「ニンニクは吸血鬼を遠ざけると信じられています。」 - The medicine helped ward off the flu.
「その薬はインフルエンザを防ぐのに役立ちました。」 - She wore a charm to ward off bad luck.
「彼女は不運を遠ざけるためにお守りを身に着けていました。」
rice stalks : 名詞
意味: 稲穂。The stems or stalks of the rice plant.
（狐が口にくわえている稲穂を指すために使われる）
例文：
- The farmers carefully harvested the rice stalks.
「農民たちは慎重に稲穂を収穫しました。」 - The fox statue held rice stalks in its mouth.
「狐の像は口に稲穂をくわえていました。」 - The wind rustled through the rice stalks in the field.
「風が田んぼの稲穂を揺らしていました。」