Fushimi Inari Taisha is a must-see on any trip to Kyôto. Famous for its thousands of vibrant red torii gates winding through the mountain forest, this sacred site draws millions of visitors every year. But beyond its iconic imagery, what does this shrine truly represent and what can you expect to discover when you visit?
Why is Fushimi Inari Taisha one of Japan's most iconic shrines?
An ancient spiritual site at the heart of Kyôto
Fushimi Inari was founded in the year 711 and is dedicated to Inari, the Shintô deity of rice, harvests, and prosperity. Over the centuries, it has become the head shrine of a nationwide network of over 30 000 Inari shrines throughout Japan.
The deity Inari and the symbolic power of red torii
Inari is revered for blessings related to agriculture, business success, and household well-being. Every red torii you see at Fushimi Inari was donated by an individual or company, either as thanks for a fulfilled wish or in hopes of future prosperity.
These gates mark the entrance into sacred space, and their continuous rows create a visual and spiritual journey unlike anything else in Japan.
Foxes (Kitsune): sacred messengers and guardians of the shrine
You’ll find fox statues throughout the grounds: they’re believed to be Inari’s messengers. Usually carved from stone, they often hold a key or a sheaf of rice in their mouths. In Japanese folklore, kitsune are both mischievous and benevolent, but at Fushimi Inari, they serve a protective role.
What to see when you visit Fushimi Inari Taisha?
Fushimi Inari spans Mount Inari with over 4 km of trails lined with thousands of torii gates, open 24/7. Here are the highlights you shouldn’t miss:
Romon gate and the main shrine
You'll enter through a towering red torii and then pass through the Romon Gate, donated in 1589 by the warlord Toyotomi Hideyoshi. Just beyond lies the main shrine building where visitors offer prayers.
The thousand torii path (Senbon Torii)
This is the shrine’s most famous view: two tight rows of torii forming a glowing red tunnel. Each gate is engraved with the name of its donor. The walk is short but striking, an absolute must for first-time visitors.
Omokaru stones
At the end of the Senbon Torii path, a small cemetery holds two stone lanterns known as Omokaru ishi, literally "heavy / light stones". Tradition says if you make a wish and lift one of the stones, its weight will predict the outcome. If it feels light, your wish may come true; if it’s heavy, patience will be required.
Yotsutsuji intersection
Halfway up the mountain, this popular rest spot offers a sweeping view over Kyôto. Many visitors turn around here, but the trail continues for those who want to go further.
Mount Inari summit
For the adventurous, the summit sits at 233 meters above sea level. The round-trip hike takes 2 to 3 hours. While there’s no grand view at the top due to thick forest cover, the experience is serene and rewarding.
Hidden shrines and side paths
Venture off the main trail to discover small altars, miniature torii gates, stone foxes, and quiet sub-shrines like Gozendani. These less-traveled paths offer a more intimate experience.
The bamboo forest
Fushimi Inari is also home to several impressive bamboo groves, often compared to the famous Arashiyama Forest. This version is quieter, lacks protective fencing, and feels more natural. To find it, head right after the Senbon Torii tunnel toward the restrooms, then follow the left-hand path for about 300 meters.
Tips for planning your visit to Fushimi Inari Taisha
Suggested visit duration
- 1 hour: Main shrine and Senbon Torii
- 1.5–2 hours: Up to Yotsutsuji intersection
- 3 hours: Full hike to the summit and back
Best Times to Visit
- Early morning (before 8 AM): Peaceful and crowd-free
- Evening (after 7 PM): Quieter, atmospheric with illuminated torii
- Midday: Very crowded, especially at the base
Visiting Fushimi Inari at night
Open 24/7, the shrine is enchanting after sunset. Lanterns cast a gentle glow on the gates. If you’re hiking beyond Yotsutsuji after dark, a flashlight is helpful.
Getting there from Kyôto station
Take the JR Nara Line and get off at Inari Station, just two stops from Kyôto Station (about 5 minutes). The shrine is right outside the station. You can also use the Keihan Line to Fushimi-Inari Station, a short walk away.
On-site amenities
Restrooms are available at the entrance and midway along the trail. Drink vending machines are scattered along the route. Wear comfortable shoes and bring water, especially in summer.
A unique fact: donating a Torii gate
Yes, you can donate one of the torii gates! Prices start around 400 000 yen (~2 500 €), depending on size. Smaller ones are often placed near the summit. Donating a gate is a symbolic gesture of gratitude to Inari for a fulfilled wish or in hopes of future success.
Key events at Fushimi Inari throughout the year
Fushimi Inari hosts many ceremonies and festivals. Here are the most important ones:
January
- January 1, 6:00 AM: New Year’s prayer
- January 5 (noon at main shrine, 1:40 PM at Gozendani): Mountain festival
- Second Monday in January, 1:00 PM: Coming of Age Day celebration
- January 12, 2:00 PM: Archery ritual
February
- First weekend of February, 9:00 AM: Spring festival
- First "Day of the Horse" in February, 8:00 AM: Shrine anniversary and horse ceremony
April
- Closest Sunday to April 8, 1:00 PM: Commerce blessing ceremony
- April 12, 11:00 AM: Rice planting ritual
- Closest Sunday to April 20, 11:00 AM: Inari Festival with portable shrines
May
- May 3, 4:00 PM: "Kanko" Festival, also called "Welcome Home"
June
- June 10, 1:00 PM: Rice seedling transfer ceremony
- June 30, 3:00 PM: Summer purification ritual, impurities are symbolically placed in doll-shaped figures and released into rivers or the sea
July
- First Sunday of July: Inari believers’ pilgrimage festival
October
- Two days leading up to the second Monday in October, 1:00 PM: Thanksgiving and prayers for safety and prosperity
- October 25, 11:00 AM: Rice harvest ceremony
November
- November 8, 1:00 PM: Rice harvest thanksgiving with a giant fire burning 100 000 wooden prayer plaques (ema)
- November 8, 6:00 PM: Traditional Mikagura music and dance performance
- November 23, 10:00 AM: Official rice offering
December
- December 31, 3:00 PM: Year-end purification ceremony
