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Fushimi Inari Taisha

Shrine

Prefecture

Kyoto

Type

Shrine

N/A

1 review

English Staff Train Access

About This Destination

Thousands of vermilion torii gates wind up the forested slopes of Mount Inari, creating one of Japan's most mesmerizing spiritual landscapes.

Fushimi Inari Taisha is the head shrine of Inari, the Shinto deity of rice, sake, and prosperity. What draws visitors from around the world are the thousands of vermilion torii gates that line a network of trails winding through the forest up Mount Inari to its 233-meter summit. Most visitors photograph the famous tunnel of gates in the lower section and turn back, but the full pilgrimage to the peak and back takes two to three hours and rewards those who continue with increasing solitude. Past the halfway point, the crowds thin dramatically, and you may find yourself walking alone through corridors of weathered orange wood, small sub-shrines and stone fox statues appearing at intervals along the forested path. The shrine is open around the clock, making dawn and dusk particularly atmospheric times to visit. Fox statues guard the grounds throughout, serving as messengers of Inari. Entry is free. The lower paths are paved and accessible; upper sections become steeper and more rustic.

Location

Prefecture: Kyoto

Address: Kyoto, Japan

Nearest Station: Inari Station

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Visitor Information

Credit Cards: Unknown

Food Options: Inari sushi, kitsune udon, and matcha soft serve at stalls near the base.

Official Website

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best way to get to Fushimi Inari Taisha?

Take the JR Nara Line from Kyoto Station to Inari Station (5 minutes, 150 yen). The shrine entrance is right outside the station—about a 1-minute walk.

How long does it take to climb Mount Inari?

The full loop to the summit and back takes 2-3 hours. Most visitors only walk the first section with the famous torii tunnel (about 30 minutes round trip). The crowds thin significantly past the halfway point.