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Fushimi Inari Taisha 伏見稲荷大社
Fushimi, Kyoto · Open in Google Maps
Fushimi Inari Taisha is the head of the thousands of Inari shrines across Japan, worshipping Ukanomitama, the spirit of rice. It is famous for the tunnels of vermilion torii gates that climb Mt. Inari behind the main shrine.
What to look for
- Each torii was donated by a person or business, and their names are written on the back; you only see them when walking down.
- Fox statues throughout the mountain are Inari's messengers, often holding a key or a jewel in their mouths.
- The path continues up the mountain past many smaller shrines; the crowds thin out quickly the higher you go.
Enshrined kami
- Ukanomitama 宇迦之御魂大神
What people pray for here
Business prosperity, good harvests and wealth.
Etiquette
The lower torii tunnels are very crowded from mid-morning. Going early, or climbing higher up the mountain, gives you a calmer experience.
New to shrines? Read our short guide to shrine etiquette: purifying your hands, bowing and clapping, offerings, omamori and goshuin.