What is Fushimi Inari Taisha?
Fushimi Inari Taisha, located in Fushimi Ward, Kyoto, is the head shrine of approximately 30,000 Inari shrines across Japan.
Founded in 711 during the Nara period, Fushimi Inari Taisha is believed to bring blessings for bountiful harvests, prosperous business, and family safety. It is a highly popular destination, attracting visitors from both Japan and around the world.
Features and Highlights of Fushimi Inari Taisha
Senbon Torii (Thousand Torii Gates)
A breathtaking sight of vermilion torii gates forming a tunnel-like path. The light filtering through the gaps creates a magical atmosphere, making it a perfect spot for photography. Especially in the early morning or late afternoon, when crowds are minimal, visitors can enjoy a truly mystical ambiance.
Okusha Hōhaisho (Inner Shrine Worship Hall)
Beyond the Senbon Torii lies the Okusha Hōhaisho (Inner Shrine Worship Hall). Here, the “Omokaru Ishi” (Heavy-Light Stone) is a popular attraction—if you lift the stone and it feels lighter than expected, your wish is said to come true.
Inariyama Hiking
The entire Mount Inari within Fushimi Inari Taisha’s grounds is considered sacred. The approximately 4 km pilgrimage trail to the summit is surrounded by nature, allowing visitors to enjoy a leisurely hike. Along the way, small shrines and tea houses are scattered, offering a full experience of Kyoto’s traditional charm.
How to Enjoy Fushimi Inari Taisha
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Instagram-Worthy Spots Tour
Senbon Torii, the Omokaru Ishi, fox statues, and many other photogenic spots await visitors! Early morning visits are recommended, when crowds are minimal.
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Pilgrimage Path Gourmet
Along the pilgrimage path, visitors can enjoy a variety of Kyoto delicacies such as Kyoto-style udon, kitsune sushi, matcha sweets, and inari sushi. Strolling and sampling these treats is part of the fun!
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Blessing Items
Amulets for good fortune and prosperous business, as well as ema (wooden prayer plaques), are popular. In particular, fox-shaped ema make the experience of writing your wishes both fun and memorable.
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Night Visits – Equally Mystical
Fushimi Inari at night is enchanting and romantic. While there is no official lighting, the vermilion gates emerge beautifully in the quiet, creating a truly special atmosphere.
Experiences Around Fushimi Inari Taisha
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Tea Ceremony Classes & Experiences
Around Fushimi Inari Taisha, there are several venues offering tea ceremony experiences. Visitors can prepare and enjoy matcha themselves, appreciate the atmosphere of the tea room, the utensils, and the beauty of the gardens, and learn about the etiquette and spiritual aspects of the practice. Through these experiences, one can deeply engage with Japanese traditional culture and manners.
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Kimono & Yukata Rental with Dressing Experience
Kimono rental is a quintessential item for Kyoto sightseeing, making photos at tourist spots even more photogenic. Kyoto offers a wide range of kimono rental services, ensuring that visitors can find the perfect kimono to suit their style.
- Basic Information
- Location: 68 Fushinokuchicho, Fukakusa, Fushimi Ward, Kyoto
Access: Immediately from JR Nara Line “Inari Station” / 5-minute walk from Keihan Main Line “Fushimi Inari Station”
Visiting Hours: 24 hours (Open year-round)
Admission Fee: Free
Nearby Spots Around Fushimi Inari Taisha Are Also Worth Visiting!
Tofuku-ji Temple – A Famous Spot for Autumn Foliage
Fushimi Momoyama Castle – A Landmark of Fushimi
Sake Brewery Tour in Fushimi – The Town of Fine Sake
For sightseeing in Kyoto, including Fushimi Inari Taisha,
stay at FAUCHON Hotel Kyoto.
FAUCHON Hotel Kyoto is just a 20-minute ride on the Keihan Main Line from Fushimi Inari Taisha. After fully enjoying the streets of Fushimi, why not indulge in a luxurious hotel stay where you can experience the world of FAUCHON and its gourmet delights? Kyoto’s top sightseeing spots, including Gion, Higashiyama, and Shijo-Kawaramachi, are all within a 10-minute walk from the hotel, making it easy to continue exploring Kyoto even after checkout.