The fox of the Mabashi Inari Shrine was accompanied by a large number of squinty-eyed followers

Foxes of Mabashi Inari Jinja Shrine — Fox with many followers

After passing through the long and narrow approach to the shrine, passing through the Zuishin-mon gate, and climbing a few stone steps, I found myself in front of the shrine hall of the Mabashi Inari Jinja Shrine, surrounded by a vermilion wall. In front of the shrine building, a fox, a household member of Inari-san, was sitting in front of the shrine, watching the visitors. While some foxes were carrying balls or rice, this fox was holding a scroll with a dignified face. The scroll is said to symbolize wisdom. At first glance, it may seem contradictory that a wise fox wears a red drool bib to protect himself from drooling. However, that is the way it is set up, so it can't be helped. The world of the gods must be beyond human understanding.

The fox with the scroll in his mouth was not only wise but also popular, and had a large number of followers at his feet. It was interesting to note that only the leader, a large fox, had his eyes raised and his gaze sharp, while the small white foxes gathered at his feet were squinting. Even though they were sharp, their gaze made it seem as if their interest was in me, whereas their squinted eyes did not seem to be interested in me. Is it just me, or does it seem like they don't want to help you in your time of need, and they don't seem to want to hear your wishes?

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