The iconic torii gates of Fushimi Inari

Bright vermillion torii tunnels as far as the eye can see, green forests, and moss-covered stones set the scene for a picture-perfect visit to a Shinto shrine. The Fushimi Inari Taisha shrine grounds cover the mountainside of Mt. Inari, which besides the gorgeous torii tunnels, also offers a handful scenic vistas with panoramic views of southern Kyoto.

Torii are broad rectangular gates that symbolize an entrance to sacred grounds. They are considered portals through which kami (Shinto deities) may pass in and out. Companies and some individuals donate large sums of money to the shrine to pay for the torii. You can see their name, address, and the date the torii was put up hand-painted on the back of each torii gate. The shrine and its deities are affiliated with success in business. According to the shrine, there are approximately 10,000 torii on Mt. Inari.

Inari Shrine facts and myth

Of the over 30,000 Inari shrines in Japan, this is the head shrine. You will see the Main Shrine and other buildings at the bottom of the mountain and may simply pray for blessings here. However, most people choose to hike at least part of the torii-covered trails.

You will also see countless fox statues standing as guardians in front of the Main Shrine and other sites on the shrine grounds. While the shrine venerates Inari Okami—a Shinto deity associated with grains, harvest, and prosperity—the fox is the mythical messenger of this kami. The fox is seen holding grains, a treasure, a storehouse key, and other objects in its teeth. 

You’ll find various fox-shaped confections at the shops near the shrine, like this slightly sweetened cookie flavored with white miso. The same shops sell tsujiura-sembei, a confection which is consid-ered to be the original fortune cookie. And if you’re looking for something more hearty, try inari sushi or kitsune udon, both of which are made with sweetened deep-fried tofu, which is believed to be a favorite food of foxes.

Making the most of your Fushimi Inari hike

The easiest way to get to Fushimi Inari from the Tavinos Hotel is to take the Keihan Railway. The shrine entrance is a quick five-minute walk from Fushimi Inari Station. Alternatively, you can take the JR to Inari Station, which puts you right in front of the shrine.

As with any world-class tourist destination, be prepared for crowds. To avoid the busiest times, plan your trip in the early morning. Also, keep in mind that the tunnels stretch on up the mountain, so even if it feels crowded at some points, especially towards the bottom, other sections of the trail will feel more serene.

Wear comfortable shoes when you visit Fushimi Inari. This is a hike with moderately difficult ter-rain and lots of stairs. It takes between 1.5-2.5 hours to reach the top of the mountain. If you veer off the main path you could get lost, but there are many of signs and maps posted along the way. Pay particular attention at the T-junction (Mitsusuji) and the crossroads (Yotsusuji). And if you have time, stop for refreshments at one of the restaurants or teahouses along the trail.
 

Fushimi Inari Taisha

Address: 68 Fukakusa Yabunouchi-cho, Fushimi, Kyoto City
Website: https://inari.jp/

writer

Maisie McPherson
Originally from the United States, Maisie has called the Kansai region of Japan home for nearly two decades. She enjoys seeking out the charms of life in Japan and sharing that information with visitors from overseas. She also loves marveling at retro architecture and design from the Showa period, exploring Japanese gardens, and is always up for a night out in a lively izakaya.