Fushimi Inari Taisha

Thousands of vermilion torii gates, each donated by a business or individual, form tunnels that climb the wooded slopes of Mount Inari. It is Kyoto's most photographed sight. The main shrine buildings are striking on their own, but the gates are the reason people come.

The shrine grounds are open 24 hours and admission is free. Arrive before 7am or after dusk to see the Senbon Torii tunnel without the crowds that build through the day. The full loop to the summit and back takes 2–3 hours; most visitors turn back after the first 20–30 minutes at Yotsutsuji intersection, which is also where the crowds thin out sharply. It's an uphill hike with steps throughout, so wear proper shoes.