Araki Shrine — Attraction in Kyoto

Nice little sub-shrine in the Fushimi Inari Taisha complex. However, the “Google Maps” way of getting there is a bit off, and for those who do not know how to read kanji may not be able to find it the “google maps” way.

Essentially follow the maps way to the “destination” there will be a large Torī gate on the right, keep moving straight about 30m on the right a house has the map of the area and the real way to get to Araki Jinja from the area, rather that backtracking to Fushimi Inari and going up the mountain. Go 15m beyond the map, you’ll come to a “trail” follow that up and through the bamboo forest and you’ll pop out...

Lovely hike around mount Inari. I recommend going of the beaten path early in the climb. You'll see a party on the right hand side leading up the mountain. It's a scenic hike up the mountain that's a lot quieter than the normal path. You'll eventually come up to a party leading to a waterfall. Check that out, then visit the woodworker's shop. He's a friendly man who will give you the history of the place and his awesome work. From there you'll continue to the top of the mountain via some steep stairs, at which point you'll resume the normal path. Lots of photo opportunities up here since many people choose not to...

Maybe my favourite shrine in all of Japan. It is far away from the tourist crowds that you will encounter at the main entrance of Fushimi Inari. I recommended you to pass though here on your way back to the station. It is an island of pure peace. The Milos, shrine maidens, are extremely friendly and the shop offers some very interesting souvenirs that are very different from main stream ones. Also the small fox porcelain fortune telling dolls are a must in this shrine. Take the time to visit it and you will not...