Inside Kyoto's Mountain Shrine At Night | Fushimi Inari

@Tokyo Lens

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Experience Fushimi Inari Taisha's iconic torii gates in complete solitude by climbing the mountain shrine in the dark, reaching the summit before sunrise.

1 place · 1 experience

Experience · 1 place
Climb Fushimi Inari's Torii Gates in the Dark
This is an experience I've wanted to do since I was a kid in 2005: explore Fushimi Inari completely empty, in the dark. It's about a two-hour climb up the mountain, and the goal is to get to the top before the sun comes up. The main entrance path splits, and we took the right path. Be aware that it's not as bright as the camera makes it look; it's pure darkness, so bring a light. The path can be confusing in the dark, but there are signs now. You'll find many little off-paths and alcoves to explore, some small and simple but worth a visit. The area is surprisingly well-lit in some parts, but you still feel like you've discovered a hidden area. It's spectacular with the light cutting through and the moon up in the sky. You'll have the place entirely to yourself, which is incredible. Be mindful of monkey and boar warnings, as some monkeys can be aggressive. The shops are closed at night, but there are vending machines. You can also get your name and the date hand-written on a small torii shrine. The automatic lights are impressive, but they're on a short timer! The mix of blue and orange as the sky starts to light up through the torii gates is beautiful. Don't rush this place; you can spend an entire day here exploring the different routes. The top of the mountain doesn't offer a view, but the experience is about walking through the torii tunnels and finding those hidden paths off to the side. It's a true adventure and one of my favorite places in the entire country.
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Fushimi Inari Taisha
Shinto shrine · Kyoto
4.6 (90,859)Closed
Creator's voice
Fushimi Inari Taisha is famously known for its thousands of vermilion torii gates that wind up Mount Inari. While often said to have 10,000 gates, the actual number is over 30,000. It's free to enter and open 24 hours a day, located right by JR Inari Station. The creator highly recommends visiting at night or early morning to experience it without crowds.
Fushimi Inari Taisha, 68 Fukakusa Yabunouchicho, Fushimi Ward, Kyoto, 612-0882, Japan
Restrooms — The restrooms on the mountain are only open from 7:30 AM to 4:20 PM, and they are gated and closed outside of these hours. This is a surprisingly short and specific window, so plan accordingly if you're visiting at night.
Monkeys and Boars — There are signs warning about monkeys and boars on the mountain. Some of the monkeys can be very aggressive, so it's best to keep your distance and be aware of your surroundings, especially in the dark.
Night Viewpoint — There are several viewpoints along the climb that offer spectacular views of Kyoto at night. The creator captured a shooting star from one of these spots, highlighting the unique beauty of the city lights under the night sky.
Hidden Paths and Alcoves — Fushimi Inari is full of little off-paths and alcoves that are worth exploring. While many are small and simple, they add to the sense of adventure and discovery, especially when you have the place to yourself at night.
Fushimi Inari Pipe Bucket Waterfall — Near the top of the mountain, the creator found a small 'waterfall thing' with a bucket, which he jokingly calls the 'famous Fushimi Inari pipe bucket.' This area is extremely dark and can only be seen with night vision, as the camera struggles to capture it. It's a unique, almost hidden spot that adds to the adventure.

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