The tori, these traditional Japanese portals, symbolize the border between the sacred world of Shinto shrines and that of humans. In many shrines dedicated to the divinity Inari, protector of agriculture and commerce, the paths are bordered by countless vermilion torii, often given by private individuals or companies in thanksgiving for wishes fulfilled. Here is a selection of unique shrines where you can admire these impressive alignments.
Fushimi Inari Taisha
Located south of Kyoto, Fushimi Inari is one of the most famous shrines in Japan, known for its thousands of torii forming tunnels on the slopes of Mount Inari. With more than 5,000 porticoes, this site offers a hike of about five kilometers. For a more peaceful experience, prefer an early morning or evening visit when the sanctuary is illuminated.
Access: Right next to the JR Inari station (JR Nara line) or a few minutes walk from Fushimi Inari station (Keihan line).
Nezu Shrine
This historic Tokyo shrine, founded in 1705, is famous for its torii-lined trail on a hill near the main building. Nezu Shrine is also known for her azalea festival, which takes place every spring. This picturesque site combines nature and tradition in the heart of the capital.
Access: 5 minutes walk from Nezu station (line Chiyoda) or 9 minutes from Sendagi station (line Chiyoda).
Koizumi Inari Shrine
Located in Gunma Prefecture, this sanctuary is distinguished by its three torii aisles leading to the main building. Among them, Gunma’s largest torii is 22 metres high. In autumn, the surrounding fields are lined with cosmos flowers, offering an enchanting decor.
Access: Accessible on foot from local bus stops such as Smark Isezaki (about 32 minutes).
Motonosumi Inari Shrine
This sanctuary in Yamaguchi Prefecture is unique for its 123 torii that snake to a promontory overlooking the Japanese Sea. His particularism lies in his box of offerings suspended at the top of a torii. Successfully throwing a lucky piece there. The surrounding cliffs offer spectacular views of the ocean.
Access: About 20 minutes by taxi from Nagato-Furuichi station or 40 minutes from Nagato-shi.
Ukiha Inari Shrine
In Fukuoka Prefecture, this charming sanctuary is known for its 91 tori lined along a sloped path leading to the main sanctuary. It is particularly popular in spring, when cherry blossoms embellish the landscape. The climbing of the 300 steps under the torii offers panoramic views of the surrounding area.
Access: 25 minutes walk from JR Ukiha station or via the Nishitetsu bus (#20) until Takeshige stop, followed by a few minutes walk.
Hie Shrine
Located in the heart of Tokyo, this sanctuary is the spiritual protector of the ancient castle of Edo, now the Imperial Palace. Although rebuilt after World War II, the Hie Shrine retains its historic aura. One of its entrances leads to a narrow staircase surrounded by torii, offering a unique immersion in Japanese culture in the heart of the city.
Access: 3 minutes walk from Akasaka station (line Chiyoda) or 5 minutes from Tameike-sanno station (lines Nanboku and Ginza).
Discover the richness of Japanese shrines
These shrines are not only spiritual places, but also photogenic destinations rich in history. Whether for the impressive torii alignments or for the peaceful atmosphere, each of these shrines offers a unique experience to the traveller.
To fully enjoy your visit, consider learning the rules and traditions of Shinto shrines before you leave.
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