The great kami known as Inari is formally called by the name Ukanomitama no kami. According to the oldest literature of Japanese mythology, the Kojiki, Ukanomitama no kami was born as a child of Susano no okami . Since the word “Uka” means foodstuffs,”Mitama” means spirit, Ukanomitama is indicate the “mysterious spirit dwelling in the grain.” In short, Ukanomitama is known as the kami with jurisdiction over the five grains and foodstuffs, the life-root kami having mastery over the sources of life itself.

The great kami Inari later has been widely worshiped since the Edo period especially, as a Kami that not only ruling over food, clothing, and shelter, but also bringing blessings for improving the arts and prospering business.