The Fushimi Inari Shrine is more than its famous tunnels of vermillion-red torii gates. Dive deep into the world of Inari with this 4-hour narrated walking tour about dragons, political resistance, and the story behind Japan’s most successful religious franchise.

Guided by a Singaporean living 5 minutes away from Fushimi Inari.

★★★★★ 5 star reviews on TripAdvisor.

Did you know

• You can send postcards to Oseki-san, a god on Mt Inari, to ask for deliverance from severe coughs and breathing difficulties
• Fushimi-Inari is the only shrine complex in Japan where there are more private shrines (a whooping 10,000!) than official shrines
• The real stars of Mt Inari are neither the torii gates nor the foxes—the hidden streams, waterfalls, and great cedar trees off the main trail are

This tour:

• Is held in English
• Runs daily except Tuesdays from 8:30am – 12:30pm
• An intimate experience: Limited to 8 travelers per group
• Takes 4 hours with multiple breaks in between

The route:

• Departs from the big torii gate at the entrance
• Goes off the beaten track: visit private shrines not on the official map
• Brings you to a scenic view of southern Kyoto City
• Give you on a closer look at healing shrines
• Takes you on a hidden route to nearby Tofukuji Temple (optional entry to the Hojo costs ¥400). You will be guided to nearby Tofukuji Station after.

You’ll learn about:

• The Hindu and Buddhist origins of some of the symbols
• The Korean and Tang Dynasty Chinese influence on Mt Inari
• Mystical practices and folk beliefs not written about in the official narrative
• The Edo-era craze about foxes and Inari Shrines
• The portrayal of the shrine in 19th century manga, and 21st century anime

The 30,000-strong Inari network of shrines is the largest in Japan. The Fushimi Inari is regarded as the head shrine for them all. But why did people flock to this 233-meter mountain in the first place? Let XJ take you on a tour through time and controversy in the Alternative Fushimi Inari Walking Tour.