Explore “Fushimi Inari Taisha” with Thousands of Vermilion Torii Gates and Find ‘Kumatakasha’ Bringing Good Luck with Games

“Fushimi Inari Taisha(伏見稲荷大社)” located at Fushimi-ku in Kyoto is the head shrine representing approximately 30,000 Inari shrines all over Japan. It is a really representative sightseeing spot in Kyoto, and popular regardless of age or sex. There are a lot of highlights in the precinct such as the fox statues which are the messenger of the shrine and the vermilion torii tunnel.

“Fushimi Inari Taisha” which has a history of over 1300 years, had been worshipped as a god of prosperity in business and a bumper crop. Nowadays, there are benefits for safe delivery, healing all illnesses and academic achievement as well. In addition, the shrine is characterized by having a vast site. The area is extended to about 870,000㎡, including the main hall and ‘Inari Mountain (稲荷山)’.

Many people turn around after seeing the main hall and Senbon torii(千本鳥居, thousands of vermillion torii gates), actually there is a spiritual place in Inari Mountain, too. ‘Kumatakasha(熊鷹社)’ is located at the end of climbing Inari Mountain for about 20 minutes. As its name suggests, the shrine enshrines the god of Kumataka (熊鷹, hawk-eagle).

It is said that Kumatakasha brings you good luck when buying candles at the store across the street and offers it. The appearance of the many candles is really mysterious view. It is believed that the god of Kumata is ‘effective for every game’, so we definitely want to visit when having a big game.

When you visit Fushimi Inari Taisha, why not try going to Inari Mountain for further benefits?