Fushimi Inari Taisha
Fushimi Inari Taisha · 68 Fukakusa Yabunouchicho, Fushimi Ward, Kyoto, 612-0882, Japan
Last updated 2026-10-29
By Global Travel Guide Editorial Team
Introduction
The shrine moved to its present site in 816 and was later included in the UNESCO listing of the Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto in 1994. The gate tunnels are not a single path but a network of trails; each gate carries the donor's name and date, and new ones are added continually. Stone fox statues stand along the route as Inari's messengers, with small shrines and resting places between them. The full circuit to the summit and back covers about 4 kilometres and takes 2-3 hours, though many people turn back partway. Admission is free and the mountain trails never close, while the main hall area is generally open 6:00-18:00. The JR Nara Line reaches Inari Station in 5 minutes from Kyoto Station for 150 yen, directly opposite the entrance.
Ticket Price
Free admission to the shrine and all trails; no tickets required
Opening Hours
Shrine buildings open 24 hours; Main hall and inner shrine areas: roughly 6:00–18:00 (varies by season, 6:30–17:00 winter); Mountain trails: always open; Always free
Transportation
JR Nara Line from Kyoto Station to Inari Station (5 min, 150 yen), directly across from the entrance; Keihan Main Line to Fushimi-Inari Station (10-min walk); Bus from Kyoto Station takes longer
Best Season
Late March–early April for cherry blossoms along the lower trails; mid-November for autumn foliage (especially beautiful near the summit); early morning any time of year for empty torii photos; summer is hot and humid
Pro Tip: Start before 7am at Senbon Torii
Local Tips You'd Only Learn After Visiting
The details official guides skip — save time, avoid crowds, and get better photos.
1
Start before 7am at Senbon Torii The lower gates are packed by mid-morning. Arrive at opening, walk through the dense tunnel of gates, and continue uphill if you want quieter sections.
Member-Only Tips
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Frequently Asked Questions4 questions
Yes, the shrine and trail are open 24 hours. The lower torii tunnel is lit, but the upper trail is dark, so bring a phone light and go with someone after sunset.
The full loop to the summit and back takes about 2-3 hours. The famous tunnel of torii is near the start, so many visitors turn back after 30-45 minutes.
Before 7:00 or after 18:00. Sunrise is the best combination of light and quiet; midday is packed.
JR Nara Line to Inari station, then a 2-minute walk. Keihan Fushimi-Inari station is a 5-minute walk.