Every Fushimi Inari family travel story feels like its own adventure, but ours had two chapters: a night walk at Fushimi Inari with kids and a determined climb another day. Visiting Kyoto’s fox shrine as a family brought out the brave and silly sides of both boys, and the kids perspective at Fushimi Inari made every twist, turn, and torii gate feel magical. If you’re curious what a real Fushimi Inari adventure with kids is like, step into our story and see the shrine through Luca and Nico’s eyes.
Planning your own visit to this iconic Kyoto shrine? Don’t miss our Fushimi Inari with Kids Guide for everything you need to know, from stroller access to how to get there.
This post is part of our ongoing Luca & Nico’s Travel Journal series, inspired by our actual adventures, interactions, and discoveries in Japan with kids.
As you plan your Kyoto family adventure, our Kyoto Family Travel Guide offers more fun family stops like temples, animal connections, and scenic walks. For a complete collection of every cultural experience, guide, and itinerary, all at your fingertips, be sure to explore the Kyoto with Kids Hub. If you’re wondering whether a sightseeing pass could save your family time and money, our Kyoto Passes Guide breaks down the best options. Want more ideas? See our full Ultimate Guide to Family Attractions in Japan with Kids for the best castles, shrines, theme parks, and more.
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To give you a real sense of what it’s like to experience our Fushimi Inari family travel story through young eyes, here’s what Luca and Nico had to say about our visit.
Luca’s Journal Entry
Dear Journal,
Our first trip to Fushimi Inari was at night, and I was excited at first because it felt like a real adventure. The torii gates looked like endless tunnels, glowing in the dark, and Papa joked that maybe the fox spirits were watching us. At first, I pretended I wasn’t scared, but after a few gates, it got really quiet and a little creepy. Nico started walking closer to Mama. I thought about counting all the gates, but after about twenty, I realized I’d be counting forever. We decided to turn back, and I felt a bit disappointed, but also kind of relieved. The next time we went during the day. It was much warmer and busier, but somehow it felt safer. This time, I was determined to make it to the lookout point. Nico was in a hurry, but I tried to count the gates again. There are just too many! When we finally reached the viewpoint, the city looked small below us, and the gates looked like a red river winding down the mountain. I’m glad we went back and didn’t give up. Maybe next time, we’ll go all the way to the top.
~ Luca
Nico’s Journal Entry
Dear Journal,
The first time we went to Fushimi Inari, it was super dark and super spooky. Papa said there were fox spirits living in the shadows, so I did my best ninja moves and whispered, “Don’t worry, I’ll protect you!” (But I stayed really close to Mama.) The torii gates looked like monster mouths at night. I kept looking for glowing fox eyes but only saw Luca’s shoes. Then we went back in the daytime. SO MANY GATES! I tried to run through all of them as fast as possible. I kept shouting, “Let’s beat the grown-ups to the top!” but Luca stopped to count, and then I forgot what number he was on. By the time we got to the viewpoint, my legs were tired, but I felt like a torii gate champion. If we ever go at night again, I’ll bring a flashlight… and maybe some fox snacks.
~ Nico
Luca & Nico’s Challenge:
Count as many torii gates as you can before your grown-up gets tired… or you do! Bonus points if you can zoom past the crowds and find a gate with a special marking.
Parent Insight
Not every family adventure goes as planned, and sometimes a little fear or a change of plans is part of the journey. Giving your kids a chance to try again, even after a “fail,” builds resilience, courage, and turns even the shortest adventure into a memorable story.
Did You Know? Fun Facts About Fushimi Inari Taisha
- Fushimi Inari has over 10,000 bright red torii gates, all donated by people or companies hoping for good fortune.
- The shrine is dedicated to Inari, the Shinto god of rice, harvest, and business success, that’s why you’ll see so many fox statues, as foxes are considered Inari’s messengers.
- The hike to the summit takes about 2–3 hours, but most families stop at the famous viewpoint (Yotsutsuji) about halfway up.
- Each torii gate is inscribed with the donor’s name and the date it was given, you can spot different styles and sizes as you climb.
As you finalize your Kyoto plans, you might be weighing your accommodation choices. Our Kyoto Hotel Guide features top-rated family stays across every budget, whether you’re looking for a riverside luxury retreat in Gion, a modern base near Kyoto Station, or a traditional ryokan-style experience. For a broader look at family-friendly options across the country, you can also compare stays in our Ultimate Guide to Family Hotels in Japan.
Once your hotel is booked, explore our Best Things to Do in Kyoto with Kids guide for temples, gardens, and playful cultural adventures, from the iconic red gates of Fushimi Inari and the sweeping views at Kiyomizu-dera to Arashiyama’s bamboo forest, Kinkaku-ji’s golden pavilion, and the historic halls of Nijo Castle. Don’t forget our Kyoto Indoor Activities Guide for rainy or hot weather alternatives. If you’re planning your schedule, our Kyoto 3-Day Itinerary shows how to balance famous sites with hidden gems at a relaxed, kid-friendly pace.
Until Next Time…
We didn’t make it to the top (yet), but our day and night adventures at Fushimi Inari were full of stories we’ll never forget. Next time, maybe we’ll bring a fox spirit mask… and finally finish counting those endless gates!
Stay curious, stay adventurous, and keep dreaming!
~ The LuNi Travels Family ~
