Fushimi Inari Taisha

There's something almost otherworldly about walking through Fushimi Inari at dawn. The famous tunnel of 10,000 torii gates stretches up Mount Inari, each gate donated by individuals and businesses seeking prosperity and good fortune. Most tourists visit during the day, but the real magic happens at first light. Around 5:30 AM, as the sky begins to soften, you'll find yourself nearly alone on the mountain path. The vermillion gates glow in the early light, and the only sounds are birdsong and your own footsteps. The full hike to the summit takes about 2-3 hours round trip. Along the way, you'll pass smaller shrines, stone fox statues (the messengers of Inari, the god of rice), and occasional clearings with views over Kyoto. Local tip: If you can't make it for sunrise, late evening is also special. The shrine is open 24 hours, and the lanterns create an atmospheric glow after dark.