Background

Fushimi Inari Taisha: A Journey Through Vermilion Gates

Discover Kyoto's iconic Fushimi Inari Taisha: a mesmerizing mountain path adorned with thousands of vibrant vermilion torii gates.

4.6
A question is required

Fushimi Inari Taisha, an iconic Shinto shrine in Kyoto, captivates visitors with its thousands of vibrant vermilion torii gates winding up Mount Inari. Founded in 711 AD, it serves as the head shrine for Inari, the deity of rice, prosperity, and business success. The mesmerizing tunnels of gates create a pathway to explore the mountain's spiritual landscape.

A brief summary to Fushimi Inari Taisha

  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid crowds and experience the serene atmosphere.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for the hike up Mount Inari, which takes 2-3 hours to complete.
  • Bring water and snacks, especially if you plan to hike the entire mountain.
  • Take some small change with you in case you want to pray at one of the shrines on the mountain.
  • Be respectful of the shrine's sacred atmosphere and the worshippers who come to pray.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Kyoto Station, take the JR Nara Line to Inari Station. The ride is approximately 5 minutes and costs ¥150. Fushimi Inari Shrine is located right outside Inari Station. Alternatively, take the Keihan Line to Fushimi Inari Station, followed by a 5-minute walk east.

  • Taxi

    From Kyoto Station, a taxi to Fushimi Inari Taisha takes approximately 15 minutes. The cost is estimated to be between ¥3,200 and ¥3,900. There are taxi stands available at Kyoto Station.

  • Car

    Fushimi Inari Taisha is approximately 20 minutes from the Kyoto Minami Interchange on the Meishin Expressway. Parking is available for shrine visitors, but it can be very crowded. If parking is full, staff will direct you to alternative parking locations. Parking fees vary depending on the lot.

Unlock the Best of Fushimi Inari Taisha

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

q

Discover more about Fushimi Inari Taisha

Fushimi Inari Taisha, established in 711 AD, stands as the most important of over 30,000 Inari shrines across Japan. Dedicated to Inari, the deity of rice, sake, and prosperity, the shrine has been a site of reverence for centuries. Originally founded by the Hata clan, the shrine received imperial patronage, solidifying its importance. The shrine's most distinctive feature is the seemingly endless path of vermilion torii gates that wind up Mount Inari. These gates, numbering around 10,000, have been donated by individuals and businesses seeking blessings for success and good fortune. The practice of donating gates became particularly popular during the Edo period. Each gate bears the name of the donor and the date of the donation. Foxes, or *kitsune*, are considered the messengers of Inari, and statues of foxes can be seen throughout the shrine. These foxes often hold a key in their mouths, symbolizing the key to a rice granary or a jewel representing the spirit of the gods. The ascent to the summit of Mount Inari takes approximately 2-3 hours, with well-marked trails leading past smaller shrines and offering panoramic views of Kyoto. Along the way, you'll find tea houses offering refreshments and Inari-themed dishes like *inari sushi* and *kitsune udon*. Fushimi Inari Taisha is open 24 hours a day, and admission is free, making it a unique and accessible destination for visitors.

Popular Experiences near Fushimi Inari Taisha

Popular Hotels near Fushimi Inari Taisha

Select Currency