Fushimi Inari Taisha Half-Day Private Guided Tour

Visit Fushimi Inari Taisha, Japan's most famous Shinto shrine, known for its thousands of bright red torii gates. This sacred place, built in the 8th century, is dedicated to Inari, the goddess of rice, agriculture, and prosperity. Your private guide, an expert in Japanese history, will share stories about the shrine's deep cultural meaning and how it became a symbol of good fortune and success.

The tour includes a walk through the peaceful trails of Mount Inari, surrounded by nature and breathtaking views. Along the way, you’ll see smaller shrines, fox statues believed to be messengers of Inari and hidden spots that most visitors miss. It’s the perfect blend of history, nature, and cultural exploration in one unforgettable experience.

What’s Covered

• Private guide for the full day

• Guide’s transport and entrance fees

What’s Extra

• Meals and drinks

• Bottled water (available for purchase at vending machines along the trail)

Good to Know

• The tour is stroller and pram accessible for families with young children.

• Pets are welcome to join the experience.

• Convenient access to public transportation is available nearby.

• The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users.

• Infants should have their own seating arrangement; sitting on laps is not permitted.

• Infant seats are not provided during the tour.

• This is a private day tour, offering a personalized experience.

• The tour lasts approximately 4 hours.

• Live tour guide is available in French, English, and Japanese.

Tour Itinerary

1. Meeting Point

• Duration: 10 minutes

The tour begins at Inari Station, conveniently located near the shrine entrance. Your guide will meet you here and provide a brief introduction before starting the journey.

2. Entering the Shrine

• Duration: 20 minutes

Walk through the grand Torii gate, the symbolic entrance marking the transition into the spiritual world. Pass under the impressive Romon Gate, built in the late 16th century, where statues of guardian deities welcome visitors and protect the shrine from negative energy.

3. The Main Shrine (Honden)

• Duration: 30 minutes

Explore the Honden, the central hall dedicated to Inari, the goddess of rice, harvest, and prosperity. Your guide will share stories about the shrine’s history and cultural significance. Admire the fox statues, believed to be Inari’s messengers, and learn about their symbolic keys and scrolls.

4. Climbing Through the Torii Gates

• Duration: 1 hour

Begin your ascent along the famous trail lined with over 10,000 vermillion torii gates, donated by individuals and businesses seeking blessings. The path winds through serene forests and smaller shrines, offering opportunities to learn about ancient traditions, take photographs, and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

5. Mount Inari Observatory

• Duration: 30 minutes

Arrive at the observatory for stunning views of Kyoto’s cityscape. Take a moment to rest, enjoy the scenery, and capture memorable photos. Depending on your energy level, choose to return to the main shrine or continue hiking to the summit for a deeper exploration of the mountain trails.

Related Read: Top 10 Sights to See in Kyoto