It was one of my most exhilarating experiences in Japan to have climbed to the top of the mountain at night. I recommend coming here in the evening around 7pm. The temple area is closed but the climb to the top is much more peaceful and enjoyable. You will have stretches of the path to yourself at times to just enjoy the beauty of it all. The farther upwards you travel, the less crowded it gets. Even around 10pm, there were lots of people at the beginning of the path but very few once the second circuit starts so try to complete that stretch as it was in my personal experience, the best part of it all.
A beautiful shrine and a MUST visit for anyone visiting Kyoto. However, be aware that this is most definitely NOT suitable for those with mobility issues.
We arrived about 7am and hiked up the mountain (about 42 storeys according to our smart watch). This is another shrine that you simply must arrive early to avoid the rush. Whilst our climb wasn't too busy, on our way back down, crowds of people were arriving, along with the large tour groups, making the base of the site incredibly busy.
If you do want to hike to the top shrine, you will arrive at a crossroads on the climb, here you will make your choice, go right (steeper up stairs, but shorter) or go left (longer, but with a more gradual climb). We went right for the steeper climb, giving us a nicer decent, and we were very happy with our choice.
As with other shines in Kyoto getting good pictures can be tricky, you'll wait for the perfect shot just for someone to walk into frame at the last moment, also be aware you'll get stuck behind others trying to take perfect pictures which will slow you down on your trip, you'll need plenty of time for this one.
This is easily accessible on the JR line, ¥240 approx from central Kyoto.
It’s definitely a worthwhile experience, especially if you hike all the way to the top of the mountain. That’s when you truly immerse yourself in the experience, connect with nature, and feel the meditative atmosphere and purpose of the shrine. If you don’t go all the way up, you end up stuck in the more touristy area, crowded with people, making it harder to connect. The hike is a bit challenging, taking around 40 minutes to 1.5 hours, but it’s absolutely worth it for the full experience. On the way back, I even stopped halfway at a viewpoint, lay down on the rocks soaking up the sun for about 40 minutes, and it was amazing—I almost took a nap.
Fushimi Inari Taisha is an absolute must-visit in Kyoto! The iconic vermilion torii gates create a magical, almost otherworldly atmosphere as you walk through the winding trails up Mount Inari. The hike is peaceful and scenic, with small shrines, fox statues, and stunning views along the way. Even though it’s a popular spot, there are plenty of quieter moments if you go early or venture further up the trail. The spiritual energy of the place is powerful and calming. Whether you're into photography, hiking, or simply soaking in culture and nature, this shrine offers a truly unforgettable experience.
I visited this beautiful and unique temple during the New Year period last December, and it was an incredible experience! Even though I arrived early in the morning, there were already many people there, which speaks to how popular and special this place is. The temple itself is truly stunning, with intricate architecture and a serene atmosphere.
One of the highlights is the hiking trail nearby. Some visitors choose to go for a run early in the morning, which adds to the peaceful and energetic vibe of the area. It’s such a cool spot for both relaxation and physical activity.
Entrance to the temple is completely free, making it an accessible and must-visit destination. I highly recommend checking out this temple if you're looking for a peaceful, beautiful place to start your day!
