Arina was absolutely amazing! We truly appreciated that she took such a different approach to the route to the temple, much more quiet and calm through the bamboo forest. An amazing experience for my son and I.
Fushimi Inari Tour: Shrines and Hidden Paths
Wander off the famous path into stories many visitors miss
The Finer Details
Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine is the central headquarters for over 40,000 Inari shrines throughout Japan. Originally dedicated to the god of rice (‘Inari’), the deity of this interesting shrine is enrolled to foster business prosperity with the agricultural decline and boasts the largest number of worshippers in Japan. While this intriguing shrine remains a popular attraction for visitors, there's much more to this iconic place than the shrine itself. This 3.5-hour tour, led by a historian, follows the mountain pilgrimage (‘Oyama Meguri’). Following this path, we will discover hidden altars, waterfalls, and sub-shrines of Mt. Inari without the crush of crowds and learn how the deities believed to be living in the mountain are worshipped. While exploring this path, we will also untangle the secret story of one of Japan’s most celebrated Shinto deities, Inari.
Please note: this tour involves moderate hiking and is not suitable for people with mobility concerns
Our adventure begins at Sennyuji. This hidden temple shares a special connection to Fushimi Inari not only because it hosts a freshwater spring from Mt. Inari but also because it is guarded by the protective spirit of Inari. Here, we will enjoy a serene stroll through the crowd-free temple compounds and learn about the temple’s historical importance through its close association with the Japanese imperial household.
Leaving this treasure behind, we will follow a secret path that leads to Mt. Inari and begin the hike. Considered to be the holy body of the deity, Mt. Inari was once a sacred religious practice ground for monks and pilgrims. As we discover hidden altars, waterfalls, and sub-shrines, we will learn about ancient Japanese spirituality. Once we reach the top of Mt. Inari, we will be introduced to a spectacular view across all of southern Kyoto. From there, we will walk through the arcades of the famous torii gates lining the path from the top of the mountain to Fushimi Inari Shrine on the ground level. We will leave with a deeper understanding of the history and purpose of Inari as well as the important role of Shintoism in Japanese culture.
Sites Visited
- Fushimi Inari Shrine - Dedicated to Inari, the deity of a good harvest and success in business, Fushimi Inari Taisha is the head of all of Japan's Inari shrines.
- Sennyuji temple - Its founder was the monk Eisai, who first introduced Zen Buddhism to Japan, and Dogen, who founded the Soto sect of Zen/
Logistics
Tickets
You are prepaid for the tour and entry fees at the venues.
Accessibility
This tour involves moderate hiking, including a short walk up a steep mountain, which can be challenging. Unfortunately, the tour is not suitable for those with mobility issues.
Meet the Experts
Where You’ll Go
From iconic landmarks to tucked-away local favorites, these are the places you’ll explore and experience firsthand with your Expert.
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Sennyuji
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Fushimi Inari
What’s Included As Standard
Here’s a look at what your tour covers, plus anything you’ll want to consider arranging separately, so you can plan with confidence.
Included
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English-speaking expert guideTours led in English, offering you unbroken understanding throughout.
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Intentionally sized groupsA smaller group means more time for conversations and questions.
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Tickets and entrance feesAll entry tickets included (unless clearly stated otherwise).
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HeadsetsHeadsets are included on tours that need them, so every word can be heard.
Not Included
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Food and drinkUnless booking a Food & Drink tour or tasting experience, refreshments are not included.
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Transportation to and from the meeting pointUnless noted, pre- and post-tour transport isn’t included - this service can be added by request.
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GratuitiesTips aren’t included, but we encourage tipping as a way to thank your guide after your experience.
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Hotel pickup or drop-offUnless noted, travel to or from accommodation isn’t included - this service can be added by request.
Where You'll Explore
Make the Most of Your Tour
Some helpful advice for getting the most from your experience, from practical prep to small on-the-day tips.
Dos:
- Wear comfortable footwear
- Check the weather and dress appropriately
- Bring a bottle of water (no glass)
- Feel free to ask your Expert anything
Don'ts:
- Bring firearms or weapons
- Bring sharp objects (e.g. knives, swiss army knives, switchblades, hiking sticks)
- Dress inappropriately to enter religious sites or sacred monuments
Any questions? You can always
contact us.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. Context clients generally tip anywhere from 10-25% of the purchase price of a personal service such as this, depending on the quality of the experience and their tipping habits.
Book with confidence — see Context's flexible cancellation policy here.
Don’t just take our word for it
The Fushimi Inari tour with Juliana was very enjoyable. Juliana is articulate, extremely knowledgeable, and an excellent story teller. The tour covers much of a large temple area, and includes hiking along many paths leading to numerous Shinto shrines. The tour culminates in passing under hundreds of Torii among the several thousand in the temple area.
Laura was very knowledgeable on shrines and temples. She did a great job explaining the religions, area and customs. I highly recommend the tour w her.
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