This is one of Kyoto's most visually spectacular shrines, with thousands of vermillion-colored torii gates straddling trails that lead up sacred Mt. Inari. Founded in the 8th century to honor Inari, the god of rice, it has long been a popular location for merchants to pray for success in their businesses. There are also statues of foxes, thought to be messengers of the god, and smaller subsidiary shrines. The top of Mt. Inari has beautiful views of Kyoto.