Spend A Day At The Torii Gates At Fushimi Inari Shrine In Japan
Explore the stunning Torii gates at Fushimi Inari Shrine on a perfect day trip from Kyoto.
If you’re planning a trip to Kyoto, visiting the Torii gates in Fushimi Inari Shrine should be at the top of your list.
Known for its stunning red gates that stretch across picturesque trails, Fushimi Inari Shrine offers a unique cultural and spiritual experience.
Fushimi Inari Shrine is open 24 hours a day, all year round, and the best part is that admission is completely free.
In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know to make your visit memorable.
We include details on how to get there, the history of the shrine, and the importance of the famous Torii gates.
Additionally, we also provide tips for hiking to the top of the mountain to ensure you have the best experience possible.
Whether you’re visiting for the scenic views, the spiritual energy, or the Instagram-worthy photo spots, this is the perfect one-day trip from Kyoto.
Getting to Fushimi Inari Shrine from Kyoto
Fushimi Inari Shrine is conveniently located just a short train ride from Kyoto Station, making it an easy day trip.
Here’s how to get there:
Take the JR Nara Line from Kyoto Station and get off at Inari Station.
The ride is around 5-6 minutes and costs approximately 150 yen.
Once you get off the train, you’ll find the entrance to the shrine right across the street from the station.
Alternatively, if you’re staying near the Keihan Line, you can take it to Fushimi-Inari Station, which is about a 5-minute walk to the shrine.
Keep in mind that this destination is very popular, and trains can get crowded, especially during commute hours.
We arrived early at Kyoto train station, and the lines to the next train were packed. However, the good news is that the ride is short.
When you get off at Inari Station, it feels a bit like arriving at Disney World with the huge crowd of people exiting the train.
The Importance of the Torii Gates
The Torii gates in Fushimi Inari Shrine are an iconic symbol of Japan.
In Japanese culture, the bright red gates mark the transition from the mundane to the sacred, welcoming you into a spiritual realm.
As you walk through these gates, you’ll notice the names of donors inscribed on each one.
Each gate is donated by individuals or businesses seeking blessings from Inari, the god of rice, prosperity, and success.
This connection between the physical world and the spiritual realm is why the Torii gates hold deep significance.
Fushimi Inari Shrine has over 10,000 Torii gates and 12,000 steps, making it one of the largest and most visually captivating shrines in Japan.
Walking through these gates feels like stepping into a tunnel of red, wrapped around the mountain.
Why Are the Torii Gates Red?
The distinctive red color of the Torii gates in Fushimi Inari Shrine isn’t just for show.
The red-orange hue is symbolic of protection from evil forces.
Red is also associated with the Shinto gods and is thought to bring good fortune and energy.
The paint used on the gates contains mercury, which helps to preserve the wood and protect the gates from decay over time.
This preservation has helped keep the Torii gates vibrant and intact for centuries.
History of Fushimi Inari Shrine
The Fushimi Inari Shrine was established in 711 AD, making it one of Japan’s oldest and most revered Shinto shrines.
The shrine is dedicated to Inari, the Shinto god of rice, agriculture, and prosperity.
Over the centuries, Inari became associated with business success. This is why many entrepreneurs visit the shrine to pray for good fortune.
The tradition of donating Torii gates to the shrine began in the Edo period (1603-1868).
Wealthy merchants and businesses would donate these gates as a gesture of gratitude for their prosperity.
The practice continues today, with new gates being added regularly.
As you walk through the gates, you’ll see that some are older and weathered, while others appear fresh and new.
Other Attractions in Fushimi Inari Shrine
While the Torii gates are the main attraction, there are other fascinating things that you won’t want to miss:
- Roman Gate: The Roman Gate marks the grand entrance to the shrine complex. Its imposing structure greets visitors before they embark on their journey through the Torii gates.
- Main Hall (Honden): After passing through the Roman Gate, you’ll reach the Honden or Main Hall. This is where people come to offer prayers and seek blessings. You can write your wishes on small wooden plaques (called ema) and hang them here, hoping for Inari’s favor.
- Fox Statues: As you explore the shrine, you’ll notice many stone fox statues. These foxes, known as Kitsune, are believed to be the messengers of Inari. Some of the statues hold keys in their mouths, symbolizing their role as protectors of the rice granaries. Don’t forget to stop and admire these statues, as they are an important part of the shrine’s lore.
Hiking the Mountain Trails
One of the best parts of visiting Fushimi Inari Shrine is the hike through the Torii-covered mountain trails that lead up Mount Inari.
The hike is around 4 kilometers (2.5 miles) and can take 2-3 hours to complete, depending on how often you stop to enjoy the views.
If you’re not up for a full hike, a great stopping point is the Yotsutsuji intersection, which is about halfway up the mountain.
From here, you’ll be rewarded with a stunning panoramic view of Kyoto.
It’s the perfect place to rest, take some photos, and enjoy a snack before deciding whether to continue to the summit or head back down.
If you choose to continue, the trail will eventually lead you to the summit of Mount Inari.
Although the view from the top is mostly of forests, you’ll feel a great sense of accomplishment after passing through thousands of Torii gates, making the effort well worth it.
Along the way, you’ll also encounter smaller shrines and statues, adding to the spiritual atmosphere of the journey.
Tips for Visiting the Torii Gates in Fushimi Inari Shrine
To make the most of your visit, here are some helpful tips:
- Get There Early: Fushimi Inari Shrine is one of Kyoto’s most popular tourist attractions, so it can get crowded, especially around midday. If you want to take unobstructed photos of the Torii gates in Fushimi Inari Shrine, aim to arrive early in the morning, around 7 or 8 AM.
- Bring Water and Snacks: If you plan on hiking up Mount Inari, it’s a good idea to bring a bottle of water and some snacks.
- Wear Comfortable Shoes: The hike up Mount Inari involves a lot of stairs and uneven paths, so be sure to wear comfortable walking shoes. The trail can be slippery after rain, so having proper footwear will make your experience more enjoyable.
- Pace Yourself: The hike up the mountain can be tiring, so don’t rush. Take your time to admire the different aspects of the shrine and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
- Visit at Sunset: While mornings are the best time for fewer crowds, visiting around sunset can offer a magical experience. The light filtering through the red gates creates a warm, golden glow that’s perfect for photography.
Exploring Fushimi Inari Town After Visiting the Shrine
After exploring the stunning Torii gates at Fushimi Inari Shrine, don’t rush back to Kyoto just yet.
Take some time to stroll through the charming Fushimi Inari town, located just outside the shrine.
This quaint area offers a delightful mix of traditional shops, local eateries, and vibrant food vendors.
It’s the perfect place to unwind after your shrine visit.
As you walk down the main street, you’ll discover plenty of street food vendors offering a variety of delicious Japanese snacks.
Whether you’re craving something savory or sweet, you’ll find plenty of options to satisfy your appetite.
Popular treats include yakitori (grilled chicken skewers), taiyaki (fish-shaped pastries filled with sweet red bean paste), and takoyaki (fried octopus balls).
These dishes are perfect for grabbing on the go as you explore more of the town’s unique atmosphere.
If you’re looking for a more substantial meal the area has many small restaurants.
You’ll find many of them serve authentic Japanese cuisine, including ramen and udon noodles.
Exploring the town of Fushimi Inari is a great way to extend your day trip and experience more local charm.
You can also enjoy some delicious food and pick up souvenirs to remember your visit.
Embracing the Essence of Fushimi Inari Shrine
A trip to the Torii gates in Fushimi Inari Shrine is a must for anyone visiting Kyoto.
This shrine was at the top of our list of places to visit during our trip to Japan.
Whether you’re coming for the spiritual experience, the incredible photo opportunities, or just as a peaceful escape from the city, be sure to add this place to your itinerary.
With its rich history, stunning architecture, and scenic mountain trails, it’s no wonder this shrine is one of the most beloved sites in Japan.
Make sure to add Fushimi Inari to your trip itinerary, even if it’s just for half a day. You’ll thank us later!
By following this guide, you’ll be fully prepared to enjoy a day exploring the shrine and hiking its scenic trails.
Just remember to bring your camera, wear comfortable shoes, and soak in the beauty and serenity of this incredible place.
