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Summit of Mt. Inari

Reach the summit of Mt. Inari through a mesmerizing tunnel of thousands of vermilion torii gates at Kyoto's iconic Fushimi Inari Shrine.

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The summit of Mt. Inari marks the culmination of a mesmerizing pilgrimage through thousands of vermilion torii gates at Fushimi Inari Shrine in Kyoto. Reaching the 233-meter peak rewards hikers with smaller shrines and a sense of accomplishment. The ascent offers a unique blend of natural beauty and spiritual significance.

A brief summary to Summit of Mt. Inari

Local tips

  • Start your hike early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid the crowds, especially near the base of the mountain.
  • Wear comfortable shoes suitable for a 2-3 hour hike with stone steps and some steep inclines.
  • Bring water and snacks, although vending machines and small restaurants are available along the trail.
  • Allocate at least 3 hours for the round trip, including time for rest stops and exploring the smaller shrines along the way.
  • The trails are well marked, but it's helpful to have a map to navigate the various paths and junctions.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The final approach to the summit of Mt. Inari is primarily on foot, following the well-marked trails from the main shrine complex. From Kyoto Station, take the JR Nara Line to Inari Station (5 minutes, 150 yen). Alternatively, take the Keihan Line to Fushimi-Inari Station. From either station, follow the signs to Fushimi Inari Shrine. Pass through the main gate and begin ascending the mountain via the Senbon Torii. The hike to the summit takes approximately 2-3 hours. There are no additional costs associated with this final approach.

  • Public Transport

    To reach Fushimi Inari Shrine, take the JR Nara Line from Kyoto Station to Inari Station (5 minutes, 150 yen). The shrine entrance is located just outside Inari Station. Alternatively, the Keihan Main Line to Fushimi-Inari Station is also an option, followed by a short walk to the shrine entrance. Once at the shrine, the final ascent to the summit is on foot. There are no additional public transport costs for the final approach.

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Discover more about Summit of Mt. Inari

The summit of Mt. Inari, at 233 meters (764 ft) above sea level, represents the final destination of a memorable hike through Kyoto's famed Fushimi Inari Shrine. The mountain itself is considered sacred, and the entire 4-kilometer (2.5 miles) trail is lined with thousands of vibrant vermilion torii gates. These gates, donated by individuals and businesses seeking prosperity, create a tunnel-like path that winds through the wooded forest. Founded in 711, Fushimi Inari is the head shrine of Inari, the Shinto god of rice, agriculture, business, and prosperity. Foxes are considered Inari's messengers, and statues of foxes holding keys to rice granaries are a common sight throughout the shrine grounds. The hike to the summit typically takes 2-3 hours, offering a moderate challenge with stone steps and occasional steep sections. Along the way, hikers encounter smaller shrines, rest stops, and teahouses. While the summit itself doesn't offer panoramic views due to the surrounding trees and buildings, it provides a sense of spiritual fulfillment and a chance to connect with the mountain's sacred atmosphere. The summit is home to Kami-no-Yashiro shrine, where Suehiro Ōkami is enshrined.

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