FUSHIMI INARI SHRINE KYOTO

Fushimi Inari Shrine Kyoto is one of Japan’s most iconic and spiritual landmarks. The shrine is known for its mesmerizing, vermilion torii gates that stretch as far as the eye can see. This Shinto shrine offers a unique blend of cultural heritage, natural beauty, and spiritual significance. Fushimi Inari Taisha promises an unforgettable experience for every visitors who are seeking a deeper connection with Japanese traditions. In this blog, we’ll guide you through the history, beauty, and must-see highlights of Fushimi Inari Shrine.

  1. History of Fushimi Inari Shrine
  2. Where is Fushimi Inari Shrine
  3. How To Go Fushimi Inari Shrine
  4. Things To Do In Fushimi Inari Shrine
    A. Walk Through Torii Gates
    B. Hike Mount Inari
    C. Check the Fox Statues
  5. Summary

History of Fushimi Inari Shrine

Main Entrance To Fushimi Inari with Torii Gate

Founded in 711 AD, it is one of the oldest and most revered Shinto shrines in Japan. The shrine is dedicated to Inari Ōkami, the deity of rice, agriculture, and prosperity, and is widely worshipped by merchants and tradespeople. As the head shrine of the over 30,000 Inari shrines throughout the country, it’s a powerful symbol of prosperity, good fortune, and business success.

Where is Fushimi Inari Shrine

Fushimi Inari Shrine is located in the southern part of Kyoto, Japan. The shrine is situated around the Fushimi Ward section, which is nearby to Tōfuku-ji Temple.

Opening Hours: Open 24 hours a day & 7 days a week
Entrance Fee: FREE

How to go Fushimi Inari Shrine

Entrance To Fushimi Inari Shrine in Kyoto

Here are some common ways to get to Fushimi Inari Shrine;

Public Transportation

  1. From Kyoto Station
    Ride the JR Train (JR Nara Line), heading towards Nara. Alight at Inari Station after 2 stops and take the exit towards the main entrance of the shrine.
  2. From Downtown Kyoto
    Ride the Keihan Train (Keihan Main Line) from Gion-Shijo Station or Sanjo Station and alight Fushimi-Inari Station. Take the exit and walk for about 5-minutes to the shrine entrance.

By Taxi
Depending on the location, visitors can ride taxi for about 10-15 minutes. 

By Private Car
Visitors can take private car but the parking lots near the shrine are limited and can get crowded, during peak seasons.

Highly recommend taking the public transport to visit the shrine.

Things to Do in Fushimi Inari Shrine

In this section, we’ll walk you through the must-do activities at Fushimi Inari to help you make the most of your visit—whether you have an hour or half a day to explore.

#1 Walk Through the Thousand Torii Gates

Torii Gates At Fushimi Inari Shrine

The most iconic part of the shrine is by walking though the torii gates. The torii gates are painted in bright red making it stunning view for visitors. There are around 10,000 torii gates at Fushimi Inari Shrine where each gate is donated by individuals, families or business as form of offering. The name of the donors are inscribed at the back of each gate.

#2 Hike Mount Inari

City View From Mount Inari

Visitors can hike to the summit of Mount Inari. It is approximately 4 km round trip distance, with elevation of 223 meters. Depending on the pace, visitors can complete the hike within 2-3 hours.

#3 Check the Fox Statues

Foxes Statues At The Fushimi Inari Shrine

At Fushimi Inari Shrine, the fox statues are also one of the iconic and spiritually features of the shrine. The statues are scattered throughout the shrine complex especially near torii gates and small altars along the mountain trails. The foxes are believe to be messengers of Inari, the deity of rice, fertility, and prosperity. Visitors will also notice, that most of the fox statues are holding symbolic items in their mouths such as key, scroll, rice sheaf or jewel which all represent certain meanings.

Travel Tips

  • The best time to visit Fushimi Inari Shrine is during early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds.
  • Wear comfortable walking shoes
  • Stay hydrated and bring water

Final Thoughts

Miniature Torii Gates At Fushimi Inari Kyoto

Fushimi Inari Shrine Kyoto is more than just a shrine — it’s a powerful blend of spiritual tradition, and natural beauty. Famous for its seemingly endless path of vermilion torii gates, this sacred site offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore Japan’s Shinto beliefs while hiking up Mount Inari. Whether you’re making wishes at the fox guardian statues, hiking through the quiet forest trails, or simply soaking in the vibrant visuals of thousands of torii gates, Fushimi Inari delivers a deeply memorable and meaningful experience. Accessible, free to enter, and open 24/7, it’s a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Kyoto.

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the gees travel

A wife and a mother of three toddlers | Previously working as customer service executive in a logistics supply chain | working at home mom. But in spite of this added responsibilities I still find time to travel and explore together with my family.

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