Japan Travel

What is Fushimi Inari Taisha? Fushimi Inari Taisha is a Shinto shrine located in southern Kyoto, dedicated to Inari, the deity of rice, sake, foxes, and prosperity. Founded in 711 AD — predating the city of Kyoto itself — it sits at the base of Mount Inari and is famous worldwide for its thousands of vermilion torii gates that form winding tunnels up the mountainside. It’s free to enter, open 24 hours, and consistently ranks as Japan’s most visited attraction. Yet most tourists only see the lower section. If you’re willing to hike, you can leave the crowds behind and experience something genuinely magical. ...

Japan’s Most Anticipated Season Every year, an event unlike any other sweeps across Japan from south to north: sakura season (cherry blossom season). For roughly two weeks, the country transforms into a living painting — pink and white blossoms cascade over parks, rivers, castle moats, and mountain paths. The Japanese have celebrated hanami (flower viewing) for over a thousand years. Today it draws millions of domestic and international visitors and represents one of the most breathtaking natural spectacles on earth. ...