Exploring Kyoto by Bike: A Photographic Adventure at Fushimi Inari Taisha
Kyoto, with its blend of ancient temples and serene landscapes, was calling my name. I decided the best way to explore this historic city was on two wheels, and so began my three-day cycling adventure. Armed with a map, my camera, and a sense of adventure, I set out to discover the beauty of Kyoto—and what better way to start than with a visit to the iconic Fushimi Inari Taisha?
Biking Through Kyoto: The Journey Begins
Kyoto’s small-town charm makes it an ideal place to explore by bike. The city is incredibly bike-friendly, with most people riding on the pavements and even the roads feeling safe for cyclists. My hotel was conveniently located near the main station, and just around the corner was a bike rental shop. I rented a bike for three days, complete with a lock and bell, and parked it outside the hotel each night, ready for the next day’s adventure.
Riding through Kyoto was an experience in itself. The city’s narrow streets, lined with traditional wooden houses and hidden temples, offered endless opportunities to get lost—and that was half the fun. I found myself stopping frequently to take photos, each corner revealing something new and photogenic. As I headed southwest towards Fushimi Inari Taisha, the journey took about 30 to 45 minutes, mostly due to my frequent stops to check the map and admire the scenery.
Arriving at Fushimi Inari Taisha: A Photographic Challenge
As I approached Fushimi Inari, the crowd of tourists was a clear indicator that I had arrived at one of Kyoto’s most popular sites. The entrance to the shrine, marked by thousands of vibrant orange torii gates, was a sight to behold. There’s no entry fee, but I quickly realised that capturing a photo without people in the frame would be a challenge.
Fushimi Inari is famous for its torii gate tunnel, a winding path that leads up the mountain. Each gate has been donated by a business in Japan, with their names engraved in black on the orange wood—a beautiful tradition that adds to the shrine’s unique charm. I spent the first hour trying to get that perfect shot of the tunnel, free of tourists, but it was nearly impossible. Finally, after much patience and persistence, I managed to capture a photo that did the scene justice.
Exploring Off the Beaten Path: Hidden Gems and New Friends
Rather than following the main path all the way to the top, I decided to explore some of the less-traveled areas of the shrine. These quieter spots offered a different perspective and allowed me to take some stunning shots of the surrounding nature. The peacefulness of these off-track areas contrasted sharply with the bustling main path, and I felt like I had discovered a hidden side of Fushimi Inari.
As I made my way back through the torii tunnel, I met a fellow photographer from Canada. We exchanged tips on photography and he suggested I approach two girls dressed in traditional kimonos to ask if I could take their picture. Following his advice, I politely asked if they would pose for a photo, and they agreed. I promised to email them the picture later, and it turned out to be one of the best shots of my trip—one of the girls turning back in the tunnel, framed perfectly by the torii gates. It’s a moment I captured in a GoPro video, adding a dynamic element to my travel memories.
Returning to Fushimi Inari: A Lesson in Patience
My first visit to Fushimi Inari didn’t go as planned—the photos didn’t turn out quite how I envisioned. But I was determined to get it right, so I returned the next day, this time armed with better planning and a lot more patience. The extra effort paid off, and I finally captured the images I had imagined. The vibrant colours of the torii gates, the contrast of the traditional kimonos, and the serene atmosphere all came together to create photos that truly reflected the essence of Kyoto.
Kyoto’s Magic Through the Lens
Cycling through Kyoto and visiting Fushimi Inari Taisha was an adventure that combined the thrill of exploration with the joy of photography. The city’s blend of ancient tradition and natural beauty provided endless opportunities for capturing stunning images. From the winding streets of Kyoto to the iconic torii gates of Fushimi Inari, every moment was a chance to learn more about Japan’s rich culture and history.
Kyoto left a lasting impression on me, not just for its photogenic landscapes, but for the sense of connection I felt with the place. Whether it was meeting fellow photographers or simply getting lost on a bike, every experience added depth to my journey. I highly recommend visiting Kyoto and Fushimi Inari Taisha—not just for the photos, but for the unforgettable adventure it offers.