Fushimi Inari to Tofuku-ji Hike – Quiet Kyoto Trail from Shrine to Temple

#Kyoto #Trail #GPX File #Trail Route

🗻 Peak Altitude: Mt. Inari (233 m)
🚶 Distance: About 5 km
⏱️ Hiking Time: 2–2.5 hours

Route: JR Inari Station → Fushimi Inari Taisha → Kyoto Trail (No.4) → Forest Path → Tofuku-ji → JR Tofuku-ji Station

If you’re looking for a short and scenic hike in Kyoto that combines world-famous shrines, peaceful forest paths, and Zen temple vibes—all within the city—this is the one.

This route takes you from JR Inari Station, through the iconic torii gates of Fushimi Inari Taisha, up to a beautiful viewpoint, then into a quiet section of the Kyoto Isshu Trail, and finally ends at JR Tofuku-ji Station.

You’ll avoid the crowds, skip Sennyu-ji, and enjoy a forest escape that many tourists never discover.

📥 GPX files are available at the bottom of the contents.

If you still have time and energy, you can continue along the Kyoto Trail toward Kiyomizu-dera (清水寺) instead of descending to Tofuku-ji—extending your cultural hike even further.

1. Route Summary

Start at JR Inari Station (right next to Fushimi Inari Taisha)
Climb to Yotsutsuji Viewpoint through the famous torii gates
Continue just beyond the viewpoint and turn left at the Kyoto Trail No.4 signpost
Follow a quiet S-shaped forest descent through cedar woods
Exit into a quiet residential area near Tofuku-ji Temple
Walk about 10 minutes to JR Tofuku-ji Station

2. Through the Torii of Fushimi Inari

This hike begins at JR Inari Station, just a few steps from the entrance of Fushimi Inari Taisha. Walk through the endless rows of vermilion torii gates, passing small shrines, lanterns, and fox statues along the way.

Most visitors stop at Yotsutsuji, a rest area with benches and a wide view of southern Kyoto. From here, it’s only about 20–30 minutes further to reach the summit of Mt. Inari (233 m).

If you have the energy, adding the summit loop is a nice bonus—it’s the highest point of this route, and after that, it’s all downhill.

3. Entering the Kyoto Trail (Higashiyama No.4)

Just past Yotsutsuji, look for the Kyoto Trail signpost marked No.4. Turn left here to leave the main shrine route and step into a different world.

The trail changes immediately:

Narrow and earthy, with tree roots and soft soil underfoot
Wooden steps and S-shaped switchbacks
Surrounded by tall cedar trees and birdsong

No more tourists. Just forest sounds and the scent of wood—a secret hiking path hidden inside the city.

4. Descending Toward Tofuku-ji

After about 20–30 minutes of descending through the forest, the trail connects to a steep paved slope. You’ll walk into a quiet Kyoto neighborhood with stone walls and traditional-style houses.

There’s no need to pass through Sennyu-ji. This is a more direct trail, leading you toward the outer area of Tofuku-ji Temple—known for its massive gates and maple-filled gardens.

You can stroll through the temple grounds if time allows, or continue toward the station.

5. Ending at JR Tofuku-ji Station

From Tofuku-ji, it’s about a 10-minute walk to JR Tofuku-ji Station, which takes you back to Kyoto Station in just one stop.

No buses or transfers are needed. Just train to trail to train again.

6. Practical Tips

Best season: All year, but especially spring (cherry blossoms) and autumn (maple leaves)
Footwear: Sneakers or hiking shoes with good grip (stone and dirt paths)
Supplies: Bring water and snacks—there are no shops along the forest trail
Navigation: Follow the wooden Kyoto Trail signs, especially at post No.4 (look for “東山コース”)
Crowd control: Start early (before 8:30 a.m.) to enjoy the shrine before it gets crowded

This is one of those special Kyoto hikes I always take friends on—especially if they say:

“I want to see something famous, but also something quiet and local.”

You start with the magic of Fushimi Inari, then shift into a forest trail few tourists ever find, and end at one of Kyoto’s most beautiful Zen temples.

And the best part?

It fits perfectly into a morning or afternoon, leaving time for lunch, tea, or even another temple visit nearby.