Sanko Inari Shrine serves as the guardian shrine for Inuyama Castle, with its deity being the guardian deity of the Naruse family, who historically ruled over the castle. Built in the 1500s, the shrine sits directly on the approach path to the castle, making it a natural first stop for visitors heading to the fortress. The shrine also plays a role in the Inuyama Festival, whose decorated floats parade along the path to the shrine.