Fushimi Inari Shrine is certainly one of the most famous sights of Japan, located in Kyoto a bit outside the city center. The shrine, especially known for its 1’000 red gates is fascinating. Already at the entrance, an oversized gate welcomes the visitors, where the first crowds are already gathering.

Immediately after the entrance you get as a visitor of this unique shrine probably the most beautiful insight into Japanese culture. Watching the Buddhist priests at prayer remains an eternal memory. But besides the shrine, the almost innumerable red gates are probably the highlight of the visit.

The way to the top is partly very strenuous. Emotionally, it probably has 10’000 steps in addition to the 1’000 red gates. The way up is not always easy. Again and again, one has the thought to simply turn around and walk back down.

If it goes any further, I’ll turn around.

The hike takes in beautiful views, breathtaking scenery, and ever-present opportunities to relax a bit and pause for a moment. It is important to note that the hike also takes a bit of time, in addition to the sometimes not-so-easy difficulty level. You will certainly have to calculate about 2-3 hours for the way up, unless you go on full speed. The way down also takes approximately 1-2 hours. Thus, there is nothing with a short and spontaneous trip.

If we hadn’t made it to the top through all 1’000 gates, we would have regretted it to this day. When you reach the top and realize that you have made it, you can and will be very proud of yourself. Already during the hike you will notice how, as the altitude increases, there are fewer and fewer people who still try to reach the top. This condition is certainly also a perfect opportunity to take a nice photo without all the people around you.

For us, the hike through the red gates from Fushimi Inari Shrine was a dream. It was also the perfect ending to our Japan trip. A dreamlike country of the rising sun and the warmest smiles.