Fushimi Inari Shrine in Kyoto: Highlights and Personal Photos with Insights into the Iconic Torii Gates and Scenic Summit Route

2023-11-132024-09-19

The main highlight of Fushimi Inari Taisha is the famous “Senbon Torii,” where countless red torii gates form a mesmerizing tunnel. It’s one of Kyoto’s most photogenic and Instagrammable spots, offering a surreal view that feels like you’ve stepped into another world.

This article will share the highlights of Fushimi-Inari Taisha, along with some personal photographs.

Getting to Fushimi-Inari Taisha from Kyoto Station

The most convenient way to reach Fushimi-Inari Taisha from Kyoto Station is by train.

STEP

Take the JR Nara Line train bound for Inari at Kyoto Station.

The JR Nara Line train bound for Inari is located on platform 10. Rapid trains do not stop at JR Inari Station, so you’ll need to catch a local train.

STEP

Disembark at JR Inari Station

JR Inari Station is the second station from Kyoto Station, a brief 5-minute journey. Fushimi Inari Taisha is conveniently located right in front of the station.

Highlights of Fushimi-Inari Taisya

As you enter Fushimi Inari Taisha, the first large gate you’ll see is called “Romon.” It’s a precious structure designated as an Important Cultural Property of Japan, and one of the best spots to take commemorative photos.

A short walk will take you to the main shrine, where many people can be seen praying. Visiting a shrine often brings a sense of peace to many people. I once read that the act of bowing and joining your hands together deepens your breathing, helping you feel more grateful naturally. Interestingly, when praying at a shrine, it’s said to be more auspicious to reflect on gratitude towards others or make vows to yourself rather than focusing solely on your own desires.

Throughout the Inari shrines, you’ll notice fox statues scattered around. Foxes are considered the messengers of the deity Inari, who is worshipped as the god of agriculture.

The variety of fox statues is quite fascinating, and I found it enjoyable to observe the different poses and details.

Some of the statues were beautifully covered in moss, adding to their charm.

After walking a bit further, you’ll reach the starting point of the famous Senbon Torii. These torii gates were donated as offerings, each representing a wish for good fortune. The reason the torii gates are red is that the color is believed to ward off evil spirits.

Although it’s called “Senbon Torii”, which translates to “Thousand Torii Gates”, there are actually nearly 10,000 torii gates in the entire Fushimi Inari shrine complex.It’s also one of Kyoto’s most popular photo spots. Since it’s a globally famous landmark, it attracts many visitors. If you want to take great photos at Senbon Torii, I recommend visiting early in the morning when it’s less crowded.

If you walk about 20 minutes from the entrance of the torii gates, you’ll arrive at Okusha Hohaisho, the starting point for hiking up the mountain. If you have the time and energy, I suggest giving the hike a try. You can complete the loop around the summit in about two hours, even with breaks.

There’s also a special stone here called the Omokaru Stone. It’s said that if you make a wish and the stone feels lighter than you expected, your wish will come true. When I tried lifting it, I found it quite heavy!

About one-third of the way to the top, you’ll come across a pond.

Nearby, there are shops selling souvenirs, and many people stop here for a break.

According to one of the shopkeepers, the most popular item among both Japanese and foreign visitors is the torii gate magnet shown in the picture above.

Mount Inari itself isn’t very tall, standing at just 233 meters, but it’s a lush, spiritual spot with an abundance of nature. As you walk through the quiet forest, you can hear birds singing, adding to the serene and sacred atmosphere.

Around halfway up, you’ll reach a spot called “Yotsutsuji,” offering breathtaking panoramic views of Kyoto’s cityscape through the torii gates. Many people take a break here to enjoy the view.

There are several paths branching off from Yotsutsuji.

If you follow the direction labeled “Tanaka-sha,” you’ll reach Arakami-mine, which offers an incredible viewpoint overlooking the city.

There are two paths from Yotsutsuji to the summit, both surrounded by rich nature. I’ve hiked both paths, but I found the right-hand trail to be a bit gentler and easier to climb.

At the summit, which stands at 233 meters, you’ll find a shrine. The trail forms a loop, so you can return via the same path or choose an alternate route.

On your way back, you’ll pass by Araki Shrine, known for its blessings on relationships. Interestingly, its blessings are said to extend beyond just romantic relationships and are beneficial for all kinds of human connections.