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Fushimi Inari in Kyoto, Japan, lit up at night

At Night

Fushimi Inari at Night

Did you know you can visit Fushimi Inari at night?

That’s right: the famous hilltop shrine in Kyoto is always open, so you can choose to visit at night, when it will be far less crowded than during the day. Plus, you’ll have a more unique experience visiting at night.

Even better, plan to head up just before sunset and stay until after dark, so you can experience Fushimi Inari both by day and by night!

Seeing the shrine at the top, bathed in soft light and devoid of people, is a surreal sight. The view of Kyoto from the overlook at the crossroads point en route, at sunset or all lit up after dark, is also fabulous.

Fushimi Inari Taisha in Kyoto, Japan, lit up at night
Fushimi Inari, lit up at night

Fushimi Inari is lit at night so you can see where you are going, but it’s not so brightly lit as to ruin the reflective ambience. If you like, you can bring a headlamp or flashlight to assist with visibility as you hike up.

Note that the hillside is home to wildlife, mainly boars, monkeys, and feral cats, so be alert and stay on the trail. It’s more likely you’ll hear boars and monkeys rather than see one within the torii gates, but obviously, keep your distance if you see one.

Planning a trip? Visit our Fushimi Inari home page for the complete rundown on every single detail!

And if you’re just starting to plan your visit to Japan, check out some of the top things to do in Japan, many of which you absolutely don’t want to miss!

Top 10 Things to Do in Japan
Top 10 Things to Do in Japan