Inari-jinja

Shinto shrine associated with rice cultivation

Inari is the kami (god) that helps with rice cultivation. Inari's messenger is the fox, found at the entrance to Inari shrines. There are thousands of Inari-jinji throughout Japan.

Eyewitness Travel Guide: Japan
Mayumi Hayashi, et. al.

Inari-jinja generally have two stone foxes at their entrance, one male and the other female. Red aprons are placed around the foxes neck as a plea for help. One of the foxes usually holds a gem (under its paw) while the other holds a key (in its mouth).

Symbols of Japan: Thematic Motifs in Art and Design
Merrily Baird