I’ve written at length about how Japan’s “overtourism” problem is mostly illusory. There aren’t too many tourists in Japan; they’re just concentrated in too few places.
Kyoto is one of them. And among Kyoto attractions, Fushimi Inari Shrine (you know, the famous and seemingly never-ending tunnel of orange torii gates you’ve seen all over Instagram) is one of the most crowded spots of all.
Although there are ways to have the shrine more to yourself, I thought I’d take a more dramatic tack with this post. Namely, by pointing out alternatives to Fushimi Inari located throughout Japan.
Why is Fushimi Inari Shrine So Popular?
Before I mention some alternatives to Fushimi Inari Shrine, I should probably explain what “went wrong” with Fushimi Inari Taisha in the first place. Because for most of its history, which dates back over 1,000 years, it was only marginally famous. Even as recently as 20 years ago, it only really became crowded (and only by Japanese tourists) during new year celebrations.
Well, a few things happened. First, at some point between its founding in the 711 AD and modern day, companies began “sponsoring” more and more gates, which are now said to number 10,000. Doing so was said to bring luck and fortune, albeit not in a short-term way like playing bingo online, but rather over the long haul. Secondly, well, Instagram happened. And Tik-Tok. And YouTube.
My Favorite Orange (and Red) Gates in Japan
Motonosumi Inari Shrine, Yamaguchi
Objectively, I’d say that Motonosumi Inari Shrine, along the Sea of Japan in northern Yamaguchi prefecture, is the most beautiful alternative to Fushimi Inari. The gates here are red rather than orange, and there are fewer of them. But it’s right along the sea, which makes it nothing short of mesmerizing. It is slightly difficult to access though, requiring a taxi ride from Nagato Station (or, ideally, a rental car).
Hie Shrine, Tokyo
Another place to see Japan orange gates is right in the heart of Tokyo. I’m speaking, of course, about Hie Shrine, located amid the skyscrapers of the Akasaka district just steps from Akasaka-Mitsuke Station, which serves the Ginza and Marunouchi Lines of the Tokyo Metro. Pair a visit here with a night out in nearby Roppongi, or an adventure at the teamLab Borderless “Digital “Art” Museum!
Takayama Inari Shrine, Aomori
Although its name might confuse you to believe it’s in the famous Japanese Alpine city, Takayama Inari Shrine is located in the Tsugaru region of northern Japan, near Hirosaki city in Aomori prefecture. It’s especially enchanting in winter, when its orange gates contrast beautifully with white snow. Given that the shrine is several kilometers away from the nearest bus stop, it’s a good idea to rent a car to get here.
Yutoku Inari Shrine, Saga
Last (for now) as an alternative to Fushimi Inari is Yutoku Inari Shrine, in Kyushu island’s lesser-visited Saga prefecture. Sprawled over a mountainside (which means it’s a great workout, in addition to being an amazing sight to see), it’s accessible as a day trip from Nagasaki, just in case Saga-ken isn’t on your radar. Conveniently, local buses take you all the way here from Hizen-Kashima Station.
Is Fushimi Inari Shrine Still Worth Visiting?
If you don’t have the time or desire to visit these other shrines, then the good news is that Fushimi Inari Shrine is still worth visiting. This is particularly the case if you are strategic about your trip. For example, as I’ve written about in another article, visiting Fushimi Inari at night is generally much less crowded, and paints the shrine’s gates in a new light (or darkness, as it were).
Another simple way to experience the red gates in Japan without throngs of tourists? Walk up a few more steps! The reality is that most visitors to Fushimi Inari are simply in the mood for instant (Insta?) gratification, and will focus on the first few dozen gates. If you walk up the mountain even 10-15 minutes, you’ll be surprised how much less crowded it gets!
Other FAQ About Seeing the Orange Gates in Japan
Where to go instead of Fushimi Inari Shrine?
There are many shrines in Japan featuring haunting tunnels of orange and red gates. These include distant attractions like the seaside Motonosumi Inari Shrine in Yamaguchi prefecture, as well as Hie Shrine, which is located beneath skyscrapers in the center of Tokyo.
What is similar to Fushimi Inari Shrine in Tokyo?
Hie Shrine, located just steps from Akasaka-Mitsuke Station on the Tokyo Metro Ginza and Marunouchi Lines, is similar to Fushimi Inari Shrine. While it has many fewer gates, it’s also much less crowded. It also sits beneath towering skyscrapers, giving it an even more enchanting feel.
Should I skip Fushimi Inari?
I don’t ever advocate skipping attractions that you really want to see. However, if the thought of heavy crowds at Fushimi Inari Shrine intimidates you, there are two strategies you can employ. First, visit Fushimi Inari outside of peak periods, or hike a bit past the main crowds. Alternatively, visit similar shrines located elsewhere in Japan.
The Bottom Line
There are plenty of alternatives to Fushimi Inari for travelers who want the Instagram money shot, but not the stress. For intrepid explorers, remote sites like Yamaguchi’s seaside Motonosumi Inari Shrine and Takayama Inari Shrine in Aomori prefecture offer serene scenes that are virtually deserted. Others, such as Saga’s Yutoku Inari Shrine and especially Hie Shrine in Tokyo, are within day-trip distance (or, in the case of the latter, a subway ride) of busy city centers. That’s the good news. The better news? When you hire me to plan your Japan itinerary, you can have a trip full of these one-of-a-kind destinations.
