Fushimi Inari Taisha: Kyoto’s Most Visited Shrine

Do you know which shrine in Japan is visited most by foreigners?? Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine in Kyoto was chosen as the best tourist destination by foreign visitors in past years! It is famous for the countless red torii gates and fox statues. This unique and mysterious shrine has been fascinating to many tourists to Japan in the last decade. This must be added to your bucket list for sure!!

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What is Fushimi Inari Taisha?

Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine (伏見稲荷大社) is the head shrine of Inari located in Kyoto prefecture. The shrine is at the base of a mountain 233 m above sea level and includes trails up the mountain to many smaller shrines which span 4 kilometers and takes approximately 2 hours to walk up.

Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine was established in 711 and is dedicated to Inari, the Shinto god of rice, prosperity, and business. The shrine is renowned for its vibrant red torii gates, which are donated by individuals and businesses to seek blessings or give thanks.

What to See and Do at Fushimi Inari Taisha?

There are many things to see and do at Fushimi Inari Taisha, let’s dive into it!

Senbon Torii: the astonishing Japanese shrine gate

The shrine is famous for “Senbon Torii” which is formed with over 5,000 red torii gates that look like a tunnel. The Torii Gates made an appearance in the famous movie: Memoirs of a Geisha in 2005 and became hugely known worldwide. It’s now Japan’s most popular tourist attraction and famous photo spot, attracting photographers and Instagrammers from all over the world.

Want to get some amazing photos at one of Japan’s most famous photo spots? Hire a professional photographer to create a stunning keepsake that captures the magic of your trip!

▶︎Fushimi Inari Shrine Photoshoot With A Local Photographer

Admire the Fox Statues at Fushimi Inari Taisha

At Fushimi Inari Taisha, fox statues (kitsune, 狐) play a significant role as messengers of Inari, the deity of rice and prosperity. These statues, often holding keys, scrolls, or jewels, symbolize protection, wisdom, and wealth. Scattered throughout the shrine and Mount Inari’s trails, the foxes vary in size and style, adding an element of discovery to your visit.

Visitors can admire their intricate details, take photos, or offer prayers for good fortune. Rooted in Japanese folklore, kitsune are believed to possess mystical abilities, making them an integral part of the shrine’s spiritual atmosphere and cultural charm.

Explore the Main Shrine 

The Main Shrine (Honden, 本殿) of Fushimi Inari Taisha is the spiritual heart of the complex, where visitors offer prayers to Inari, the deity of rice, prosperity, and business. With its vibrant red architecture and intricate details, the shrine exemplifies traditional Shinto design. Visitors can perform rituals like bowing, clapping, and making wishes while appreciating the sacred atmosphere. Surrounded by smaller sub-shrines, the Honden serves as a starting point for exploring the trails and learning about the shrine’s cultural significance.

Hidden Hike to Avoid Crowds

Fushimi Inari Taisha might be the busiest tourist site in Kyoto, and it seems almost impossible to avoid big crowds while visiting there today. However, there is a hidden path in the shrine site that not many people know. This guided tour allows you to explore the shrine via the secret route and the different sides that most tourists see at the main entrance of the shrine. Click the link below for more details about the tour!

How to Get to Fushimi Inari Taisha

MAP

Access

• 1 min walk from JR Nara Line “Inari station”
• 5 mins walk from Keihan Main Line “Fushimi Inari station”

Address

68 Fukakusa Yabunouchicho, Fushimi Ward, Kyoto, 612-0882

Business Hours

Always open

Price

Free

Official Website

Fushimi Inari Taisha

Tourist Reviews of Fushimi Inari Taisha

Fushimi Inari Taisha, one of Kyoto’s most iconic landmarks, receives outstanding reviews from visitors, reflecting its cultural and spiritual significance. On Tripadvisor, it holds an impressive rating of 4.5/5 from over 24,000 reviews, cementing its position as a must-visit destination. On JapanTravel, the shrine is rated a perfect 5/5, highlighting its widespread appeal and unique charm.

Visitors frequently praise Fushimi Inari Taisha for its breathtaking beauty and immersive experience. One Tripadvisor reviewer shared their insights:

“If you are fit and energetic, go all the way to the top. Especially if you are just here once in your life. We came in November 2024. The crowds were minimal. Yes, there was the odd influencer trying to take the perfect pic but I imagine summer tourists are worse. There are restrooms on the way up and places to buy drinks. The weather is good in November for walking to the top.”

– from Tripadvisor

This review emphasizes the rewarding challenge of climbing to the summit, especially during less crowded times of the year.

Another reviewer from JapanTravel expressed their love for the shrine, stating,

“I love this place, and went there many times while I was living in Kyoto. The tunnels of torii are very cool, and I love all the fox shrines and statues. If you get the chance, I recommend going at night (wonderful spooky shadows everywhere). New Year is also a great time to visit. Crowds of visitors descend on the shrine and the atmosphere is electric!”

– from JapanTravel

This review highlights the shrine’s magical ambiance, particularly at night and during New Year festivities, providing a unique perspective for returning visitors.

These reviews showcase Fushimi Inari Taisha as an enchanting destination, where visitors can enjoy its iconic torii gates, explore its cultural treasures, and experience its vibrant energy throughout the year.

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