Inari is a Japanese name meaning "carrying rice", from the elements 稲 (ina) meaning "rice" and 荷 (ri) meaning "carry". Inari is also the name of a prominent kami (divinity) in Shinto and Japanese mythology, associated with prosperity, rice, agriculture, foxes, industry, and worldly success.Etymology and OriginThe name Inari is derived from the Japanese kanji 稲荷, which combines the characters for rice and the act of carrying. The name reflects the god's role as a bringer of rice, a staple food in Japan, and by extension a deity of good harvest and fortune. The name is used both as a personal name and as the title of the deity.Cultural and Religious SignificanceInari kami is one of the most widely worshipped deities in Japan, with over 40,000 shrines dedicated to them. Inari is often depicted with foxes (kitsune), which are considered messengers; the foxes are often carved foxes with keys in their mouths. Worship of Inari is important in both Shinto and Buddhism, with the deity being venerated for success in business, agriculture, and daily life.Other MeaningsOutside Japan, Inari is also a place name in Finland: it refers to a lake, a municipality, and a village in Lapland, as well as the Inari Sami language (spoken by the indigenous Sami people). Additionally, there is a main-belt asteroid named 1532 Inari.NotorsInari is the name of a Japanese divinity of prosperity, rice, and foxes.The name means "carrying rice" in Japanese.It is a feminine given name in Japanese usage.Related terms include ina and Forms such as Inari.