Reader’s Question:

I want to go from Ninna-ji in Kyoto to Kamigamo Shrine and then to Fushimi Inari Taisha. Can I transfer by bus to get there?

A Day of Divine Discoveries: Traveling from Ninna-ji to Kamigamo Shrine and Fushimi
Inari Taisha

As I sit here reminiscing about my recent adventures in Kyoto, I can’t help but be swept away by the beauty and serenity of its temples and shrines. My latest escapade involved wandering between three of Kyoto’s most iconic spiritual spots: Ninna-ji, Kamigamo Shrine, and Fushimi Inari Taisha. And let me tell you, the journey was just as enriching as the destinations! If you’re wondering about transferring between these locations by bus, I’m here to share my experience, tips, and a few delightful surprises along the way.

Starting at Ninna-ji: A Zen Beginning

I kicked off my day at Ninna-ji, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Honestly, I could have spent hours just soaking in the tranquility of the place. The five-story pagoda, which is simply breathtaking, stood tall against the clear blue sky. It’s that kind of view that makes you feel like you’ve stepped into an ancient painting. As I wandered through the beautiful gardens, I found myself lost in thought. The cherry blossoms were still in bloom, and I couldn’t resist snapping a hundred pictures. Pro tip: if you visit during spring, definitely bring a picnic—those gardens are made for lounging. But enough about my flower obsession. You might be wondering how to get from here to Kamigamo Shrine. Well, since I was feeling adventurous, I decided to take the bus instead of the more common walking route. Plus, who doesn’t love a good bus ride in a foreign country, right?

Bus Travel in Kyoto: A Lesson in Patience

Now, here’s the thing about buses in Kyoto: they’re incredibly efficient but can also be a bit of a puzzle if you’re not familiar with the system. I approached the bus stop outside Ninna-ji, glancing at the route map. I was determined to figure it out, and let’s just say, after a few moments of indecision and a friendly chat with a local who seemed equally lost, I managed to hop onto the right bus—number 10, if I remember correctly. I couldn’t help but feel a wave of excitement mixed with slight anxiety as the bus rolled away. Would this lead me to my next shrine successfully? The ride itself was a mini-adventure, weaving through Kyoto’s charming streets, lined with quaint shops and local eateries. I made a mental note to explore these later. Finally, I arrived at Kamigamo Shrine, and wow, what a treat! Though not as famous as some other shrines, it held an authentic charm that captured my heart instantly. The massive torii gate at the entrance was striking, and the peaceful atmosphere felt refreshing after the hustle and bustle of the bus ride.

Exploring Kamigamo Shrine: A Hidden Gem

As I wandered through the grounds of Kamigamo Shrine, I encountered fewer tourists, which was a nice surprise. It felt like I had stumbled upon a hidden gem of Kyoto! There’s something special about places that aren’t always crowded. You can take a moment to breathe, reflect, and truly appreciate the intricate details of the architecture. I spent some time admiring the sacred trees and the serene river that runs alongside the shrine. It was here that I felt genuinely connected to the history and spirituality of the place. I even tried my hand at omikuji (fortune telling) and, to my delight, pulled a good fortune! I took it as a sign to embrace the day fully. After soaking in the atmosphere, I felt ready for my next adventure: the iconic Fushimi Inari Taisha!

Onward to Fushimi Inari Taisha: The Path of Torii Gates

Now, getting from Kamigamo Shrine to Fushimi Inari Taisha was a bit more straightforward. I hopped back on the bus and headed towards Inari Station, which is conveniently located just a short walk from the shrine. I was buzzing with excitement as I approached the entrance, the famous vermilion torii gates rising majestically before me. I’ll be honest—Fushimi Inari Taisha was breathtaking, but it was also a bit overwhelming. The famous trails lined with thousands of torii gates were packed with tourists, snapping selfies left and right. Still, it’s a sight you simply can’t miss. I decided to venture beyond the main path, following the trails less traveled. And let me tell you, once I got away from the crowds, the experience transformed completely. The higher I climbed, the quieter it became, and I found myself in a beautiful, serene setting, surrounded by trees and the soft rustling of leaves. It felt like my own secret escape from the world.

The Joys of Wandering

As I explored, I came across some small shrines and had a moment of pure bliss. I love how in Japan, there’s always something unexpected around the corner. After a bit of climbing, I reached a viewpoint that offered a stunning panorama of the city below. I sat there for a while, just breathing in the beauty of it all and feeling grateful for the opportunity to travel. After descending back down, I made sure to check out the food stalls near the base of the shrine. I indulged in some delicious inari sushi (rice wrapped in sweet tofu pouches), which was the perfect reward after all that hiking. Plus, you really can’t beat enjoying local cuisine while surrounded by such iconic sights.

Final Thoughts: Reflecting on the Journey

As my day came to an end, I couldn’t help but feel a little nostalgic about my adventure through Ninna-ji, Kamigamo Shrine, and Fushimi Inari Taisha. The bus rides, though a bit daunting at times, were actually part of the experience. Each leg of the journey added layers to my exploration of Kyoto, reminding me that travel isn’t just about the destinations; it’s about the journey itself. If you’re planning to take this route, I highly recommend embracing the bus travel experience. Just be sure to download a transit app or grab a map beforehand, and don’t hesitate to ask locals for help. Everyone I encountered was incredibly helpful and eager to assist. In a nutshell, whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-timer in Japan, this day trip from Ninna-ji to Kamigamo Shrine and Fushimi Inari Taisha is a must. You’ll be treated to a mix of tranquil gardens, hidden spiritual havens, and striking vistas. Just remember to wear comfortable shoes and keep your camera handy—because this is a journey you’ll want to remember! Happy travels, and may your adventures be just as magical as mine!