Founded in 711 AD, Fushimi Inari Taisha predates Kyoto becoming Japan’s capital and stands as one of the city’s most spiritually significant landmarks. It serves as the head shrine of approximately 32,000 Inari shrines across Japan, giving it exceptional status within Shinto belief. The shrine received imperial patronage during the Heian Period, firmly establishing its importance in the national religious hierarchy. The current Main Hall (Honden) was rebuilt in 1499 after destruction during the Ōnin War and is now designated an Important Cultural Property.

The shrine enshrines Inari Ōkami, originally worshipped as the kami of rice, agriculture, and abundant harvests. As Japan’s economy evolved, Inari’s role expanded to include business prosperity, commerce, and general good fortune, making the shrine popular among merchants, companies, and everyday worshippers alike.

Fushimi Inari is world-famous for its Senbon Torii, a vast network of torii gates numbering around 10,000, stretching along the forested paths of Mount Inari. The gates are painted in vermilion (shuiro), a color believed in Shinto to ward off evil, preserve wooden structures, and symbolize vitality and the power of life. Since the Edo period, these gates have been donated by individuals and businesses as offerings, with donors’ names and dates inscribed on the back.

Throughout the shrine grounds, visitors encounter numerous fox (kitsune) statues, regarded as the divine messengers of Inari. These foxes are often depicted holding keys to rice granaries, symbolizing abundance and wealth, or sacred jewels, representing spiritual power. About halfway up the mountain, the Yotsutsuji intersection offers one of the finest panoramic views of Kyoto city, making it a rewarding highlight for those hiking the trail.

• By JR Train: JR Nara Line to Inari Station (directly in front of the main entrance)

• From Kyoto Station: Approximately 5 minutes by JR train

• By Keihan Line: Get off at Fushimi-Inari Station, about a 5-minute walk

• Visit early morning (before 7:00 AM) or after sunset to avoid crowds

• The full hike to the summit of Mount Inari and back takes 2–3 hours

• Do not miss the Yotsutsuji viewpoint for sweeping views of Kyoto

• Wear comfortable walking shoes, as the paths are uneven and uphill

• Night visits offer a quieter, atmospheric experience with illuminated gates

Admission Fee:

• Free

Opening Time:

• Open 24 hours daily