Updated on
The old capital of Japan, Kyoto is a fascinating city of old imperial sites and even older temples and shrines. You can easily spend a week exploring all of the important sites, tracking Geishas, and soaking in hot spring water.
The shrines and temples range from the spectacular and flamboyant Golden Pavillion to the whimsical and bizarre Otagi Nenbutsu. Arguably, the Fushimi Inari Shrine is probably the most iconic shrine in Kyoto. The bright orange gates winding through a crisp green forest act like a tourist magnet.
Travelers and locals alike clamber for a break in the sea of people to try and capture their visit, but don’t let this stop you. It is well worth spending at least half a day wandering the paths and collecting your luck as you pass through the bright orange torii gates.
The Thousand Torii Gates of Kyoto
So many people think that all that matters in Kyoto is Gion, the geisha district. Yet the ancient capital of Japan is so much more than that! I fell in love with the beautiful temples and shrines, steeped in history and finely decorated. From the absolutely gorgeous Fushimi-Inari shrine, to Ginkaku-Ji (The Silver Pavilion) and Kinkaku-Ji (The Golden Pavilion), there’s one thing they all have in common: nature and spirituality. The Japanese zen gardens are gorgeous, so make sure to add them to your Kyoto itinerary!
Says Danila of TravellingDany
Check out her Kyoto Itinerary and start planning your trip.
The Fushimi Inari is an ancient Shinto shrine that predates Kyoto’s capital status in 794, it is one of thousands that are dedicated to Inari, the Rice God. When you first enter, the main shrine building is right in front of you. Don’t pass this by in a hurry to walk the mountain as it’s quite beautiful with its hard wood carvings and colorful donations and prayer symbols.
Additional Reading:
5 Best Places to Visit in Japan in Winter
8+ Best Hostels in Kyoto for Backpackers
Along the way, you will also notice an abundance of fox statues. The fox is considered to carry messages for the Rice God, and this is depicted by the scroll clamped between the fox’s jaws. Each fox is unique.
Pro Tip: The shrine never closes, so try to go early or go late to beat the crowds, and to have a much easier opportunity to get some great photos.
There is plenty to do at and around the shrine’s nature park. For example, you can get your fortune told by inserting a coin in one of the many orange machines. Just remember to find the English one if you want to know what it says.
There are also food stands and a few restaurants along the paths that serve themed dishes, such as the abuurage, or fried tofu. This is reportedly the favorite dish of the messenger fox.
For the kids: Have them count how many foxes they’ve found. Can they identify what each is holding in its mouth?
The highlight of a visit to Fushimi Inari Shrine is when you are following the path through the woods, passing by many stone Japanese lanterns, and you come to the Senbon Torii or Thousands of Gates.
First, you will notice a couple of stands selling tokens and tiny torii gates or fox heads for you to write your wishes on and hang for them to come true, then you will enter the covered paths.
Thousands of donated torii gates were offered to cover the paths, which is what the black painting is on the leg of the gate. Individuals and corporations donate the gates that form the trail in an effort to bring luck and prosperity for the future.
Practical Information for Fushimi Inari
Getting There By car: As usual, we drove so we just put in the address to our GPS. The address is 68 Fukakusa Yabunouchicho, Kyoto.
Getting There By Train: Many shinkansen, fast trains, go to Kyoto. Once in Kyoto take the Nara line to Inari station. The Fushimi Inari Shrine is short walk from the station.
Opening Hours: The shrine never closes. Bring a flashlight with you when you go.
Cost: Free
Where to Stay
You could try a capsule hotel for a real Japanese experience, or opt for a comfortable, good value budget hotel. Both of these choices are near the main station and well placed for getting around Kyoto, the city of temples and shrines.
Tips for Visiting Fushimi Inari Shrine, Kyoto
Bring Water: Especially during the summer months, don’t forget to bring water, even though there are plenty of opportunities to pick up a local drink and a snack along the way.
If you have Little Ones: The hikes are up and down and around, and depending on the time of day can be quite crowded. Leave the stroller at the hotel and carry the baby.
Photos: You will want to get a good photograph of yourself and your travel partners. In Japan it’s no problem to ask someone to take a photo for you. Just remember to return the favor. However, if you are shy, bring a tripod!
Have you been to the Fushimi Inari Shrine? Do you have any tips to share?
Pin the Fushimi Inari Shrine Kyoto for later.
I am not fan of Japan or Japanese culture but this is a place I would like to see by myself, such great photo opportunities!
Elisa, It is a pretty place, a nice mix of traditional and parkland.
Your photos are amazing!
Thank you Greg!
So beautiful! I have never been to Japan but I would really love to visit one day. This temple seems like it would be an interesting day trip to check out.
Nathan, I have do doubt you will get here one day. It’s gorgeous.
Looks like a beautiful place to explore. I like that it is always open. I can imagine that a really early morning walk through here would be super peaceful.
Brianna, Yes, isn’t it a bonus?
I’ve seen so many great photos from this place already! Someday *fingers crossed* I might see that with my own eyes too! Can’t wait!
Viki, I have no doubt that one day you will get there!
Beautiful pictures. Sounds busy it makes sense to get there early as you advise. I haven’t been to Japan but the more I read about it the more intrigued by the country I become.
Thank you! It is a unique country indeed. Highly recommended.
Danik, It’s a gorgeous place to go. You will love it.
I’ve seen many pictures of this shrine, but did not know that it runs all the way up a trail! The walk must be lovely. This is definitely a place I would like to see for myself.
Punita, I think you will thoroughly enjoy it; it’s so peaceful. Go!
Ahh there’s nothing I love more than something free AND amazing!! This seems like the perfect way to enjoy the culture of Japan, but also enjoy yourself while doing it! I’d probably try and stay in a capsule hotel to get the real experience! Where did you stay?
Tarah, I’m with you. I love going to something free and really enjoying it.
I have not been to Japan yet. This shrine is intriguing. I love the contrast between the orange and black gates and the natural green forest background. The directions on the English fortune machine are amusing.
Rhonda, I know, I love Japanese translations into English. It’s always fun. Put this one down for when you travel to Japan!
It’s still on my bucket list, I always wanted to go there but because of work I’ve never made it (yet)! I’m hoping I can plan a trip for next year. Shrines and Japanese culture fascinate me a lot! I also loved the couple with their kimono!
Dany, It’a great spot for photographs, but it’s also a great spot for peace and a nice walk. I hope you are able to get there soon.