Kyoto at Night: Reaching the Summit of Fushimi Inari Shrine

Getting to Fushimi Inari Shrine from Kyoto Station is very convenient by public transportation. Exit from the central gate of Kyoto Station and take the JR Nara Line to Inari Station. The shrine entrance is right there, and it takes only about 5 minutes. If you're touring around Kyoto city, you can also take the Keihan Line and get off at Fushimi Inari Taisha-mae Station. However, the JR line is the most straightforward and fastest route. Fushimi Inari Shrine is one of the most famous shrines in Japan, well-known for its 'Thousand Torii Gates.' The shrine is dedicated to the deity Inari, and many people visit from all over Japan to pray for business prosperity and family well-being. The charm of this place lies in the seemingly endless rows of red torii gates that create a mystical tunnel-like experience. The hiking trail to the summit offers stunning scenery and many great viewpoints to overlook Kyoto city. I climbed to the summit of Fushimi Inari Shrine at night, and it was a truly special experience. Walking through the red torii gates in the darkness felt mysteriously different from the daytime. With almost no people around, it was a peaceful communion with nature, and the softly lit path felt surprisingly safe. Upon reaching the summit, the night view of Kyoto spread out before me, and the tranquility and scenery of that moment remain an unforgettable memory.