FUSHIMI INARI TAISHA

Fushimi Inari Taisha, located in Kyoto, Japan, is a renowned Shinto shrine dedicated to Inari, the deity of rice, fertility, and prosperity. Established in 711 AD, the shrine is famous for its striking vermilion torii gates that form the Senbon Torii, a pathway leading up the wooded slopes of Mount Inari. Each torii gate is donated by individuals and businesses, bearing inscriptions reflecting their gratitude to Inari.

The Fushimi Inari Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in southern Kyoto and is known for its torii gates. There are more than 1000 gates that create a trail and lead to the main buildings. This temple is a part of the sacred Mount Inari, which is also a part of the shrine and the temple. This temple is more than 1000 years old and is dedicated to Inari- the Shinto god of rice. Foxes roam around this temple and this temple is more than 1000 years old. 

A majority of the tourists visiting this place usually go to the mountain trails. However, many miss out on visiting the shrine, which is also worth visiting. Behind the main hall of the shrine is the deity where visitors can make an offering and pay their respects. The torii gates are lined up to create a path to a hiking trail and were built through donations from individuals and corporations.

Highlights

• Make an offering at the main shrine of the temple by following the set of procedures.
• Check out the main shinto gate at the main entrance of the temple and marvel at the architecture
• Take a look at the numerous fox statues that are installed to bring in prosperity and good health.
• Trek the path of torii gates and for the best pictures of you with the iconic torii gates.
• Shop for souvenirs like good luck charms from the shops located outside the temple.

How To Reach

1. By Car: The Shinto Shrine of Fushimi Inari is 23 km from the city centre, it will take 7 min via the Route number 201.

2. By Train/ metro: Take a train to Inari station which is 1 metre away from the Shinto Shrine of Fushimi Inari. You can reach the Shinto Shrine of Fushimi Inari from the train station with a one-minute walk.

Best Time To Visit

Shinto Shrine of Fushimi Inari is open throughout the year, so you can plan your visit to this place at any time of the year. 

1. The best season to visit Shinto Shrine of Fushimi Inari will be the summer season from March to June because this is the time when the climate is pleasant. 

2. The best day in the week will be the weekdays due to less crowds regardless of any time of the year. 

3. The best time of the day to visit the Shinto Shrine of Fushimi Inari will be morning due to less crowds and a favourable temperature.

Other Essential Information

• Since this is a popular tourist attraction, you are more likely to find a lot of crowds at the temple. 
• To beat the crowds, it is recommended to visit the temple early in the morning. 
• If you face crowds at the torr gates, you can just walk a bit further to the middle of the pathway and click pictures. 
• This is a place of worship, so do dress modestly by covering the shoulders and knees. 
• This is a place of worship, so tourists are advised not to make any loud noises by either talking or using their mobile devices.