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Fushimi Inari Taisha: A Journey Through Vermilion Gates

Explore Kyoto's iconic Shinto shrine: Hike through thousands of vermilion torii gates at Fushimi Inari Taisha, dedicated to the god of prosperity.

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Fushimi Inari Taisha is a captivating Shinto shrine in Kyoto, famed for its thousands of vibrant vermilion torii gates winding up Mount Inari. Dedicated to Inari, the god of rice, prosperity, and business success, it offers a unique and immersive cultural experience. The hike to the summit and back takes approximately 2-3 hours.

A brief summary to Fushimi Inari Taisha

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes, as the hike up Mount Inari involves a lot of walking and stairs.
  • Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
  • Bring water and snacks, especially if you plan to hike to the summit.
  • Take your time to explore the smaller shrines and statues along the path.
  • Respect the spiritual significance of the site by being mindful of your behavior and surroundings.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Kyoto Station, take the JR Nara Line to Inari Station. The shrine is located right outside the station. The journey takes approximately 5 minutes and costs ¥150. Be sure to board a local train, as rapid trains do not stop at Inari Station.

  • Public Transport

    Alternatively, take the Keihan Line to Fushimi Inari Station. From the station, walk east for about 5 minutes to reach the shrine. Kintetsu Railway offers a 1-day pass for ¥1,900, a 2-day pass for ¥3,700, a 5-day pass for ¥4,900, and a 5-day plus pass for ¥6,700.

  • Walking

    From Keihan Fushimi Inari Station, walk east for approximately 5 minutes. You'll pass through a temple town with souvenir shops and restaurants. Cross the Inari Bridge and the JR line crossing to reach the main approach to Fushimi Inari Taisha.

  • Car

    Fushimi Inari Taisha is approximately 20 minutes from the Kyoto Minami Interchange on the Meishin Expressway and 10 minutes from the Hanshin Expressway Kamitoba Exit. Parking is available for shrine visitors, but it can be very crowded. If the parking areas are full, staff will direct you to alternative parking. Daytime parking fees on weekends and holidays range from ¥600 to ¥800 per hour. Fushimi-Inari Ekimae Parking charges ¥100 for 30 minutes between 8:00 and 20:00, and ¥100 for 60 minutes between 20:00 and 8:00.

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Discover more about Fushimi Inari Taisha

Fushimi Inari Taisha, the head shrine of Inari, is one of Kyoto's most iconic and popular destinations. Founded in 711, it predates Kyoto's establishment as the capital. The shrine is dedicated to Inari, the Shinto deity of rice, sake, and prosperity, and is believed to grant blessings for business, bountiful harvests, and family safety. Foxes, considered messengers of Inari, are a prominent motif throughout the shrine, with numerous statues holding keys to granaries. The most striking feature is the seemingly endless path of over 10,000 vibrant vermilion torii gates that wind up Mount Inari. These gates, donated by individuals and businesses seeking good fortune, create a mesmerizing tunnel effect. Each gate is inscribed with the name of the donor and the date of the donation. Hiking the entire 4 km path to the summit takes around 2-3 hours, with smaller shrines and teahouses dotting the route. Even a partial climb offers stunning views of Kyoto. Fushimi Inari Taisha is open 24 hours a day, and admission is free, making it accessible at any time. Visiting early in the morning or late in the afternoon is recommended to avoid crowds and savor the mystical atmosphere. The vermilion color of the torii gates is believed to protect against evil forces and represents the bounty provided by Inari Okami. Exploring Fushimi Inari Taisha is not just a visual spectacle but a deeply spiritual and historical experience.

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