Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine, Kyoto (must see)

If you can only squeeze in one Shinto shrine visit during your Kyoto stay, Fushimi Inari-Taisha should be your top choice. As the primary shrine for 40,000 Inari dedications nationwide, it holds sway as the divine abode of fertility, rice, sake, and prosperity.

A sight to behold, this captivating complex sprawls across a mountain, boasting over 10,000 vermillion torii gates that weave through dense woodlands along a 4-kilometer trail. Stone foxes, guardians with granary keys, dot the landscape, alongside five shrines, mausoleums, and sake-laden altars. In Shinto belief, foxes serve as messengers to 'kami' (gods), bridging our world and the next.

While wandering through the crimson tunnel may feel surreal, the shrine's focus remains firmly rooted in worldly affairs. Originally honoring rice and sake gods since AD 711, its emphasis later shifted to commerce, evidenced by black kanji inscriptions on torii gates, each donated by businesses hoping for prosperity.

Venture to the hilltop, where countless altars await, erected by devotees after individual visions of Inari. Traditional stores peddle noodles and religious items, while a viewing point offers a stunning panorama of southern Kyoto. With its playful yet sacred ambiance, embellished by myriad fox statues, the hill exudes an enchanting allure, making Fushimi Inari the city's crown jewel.

Why You Should Visit:
Apart from ample photo ops along the winding mountain trails, it offers a mystical journey through sacred terrain, rejuvenated by crisp mountain air.

Tips:
While amenities are sparse, stores and eateries dot the path, but consider carrying water. The trek to the summit is rewarding, especially in solitude, so aim for an early start to avoid crowds and relish the serene charm.