the viewing deck: Kyoto Solo Day Trip last part: Nijo-jo and Fushimi Inari

Friday, December 20, 2013

Kyoto Solo Day Trip last part: Nijo-jo and Fushimi Inari

7-days wandering solo in summer Japan
may 28 - june 04, 2013 tuesday to tuesday

Kyoto solo day-trip 2nd part: Kinkakuji & Heian Shrine

Aside from Ginakakuji (Silver Pavilion), made by the Grandson and Kinkakuji (Golden Pavilion), made by the Grandfather, another interesting and captivating tourist spots to visit in Kyoto is the Fushimi-Inari Shrine. After having the morning tour (Ginkakuji, Philosopher's path, Kinkakuji, Heian Temple, Imperial Palace and Nijo-jo) with one-day unlimited bus pass on the central city of Kyoto, I made part Inari Shrine as my last destination for Kyoto day-trip.

Fushimi Inari Taisha is the head shrine of Inari, located in Fushimi-ku, Kyoto. The shrine sits at the base of a mountain also named Inari which is 233 metres above sea level, and includes trails up the mountain to many smaller shrines. Each of the torii at Fushimi Inari Taisha is donated by businesses. Inari is the God of rice.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fushimi_Inari-taisha

How to go to Fushimi-Inari Shrine:

JR Nara line to Inari station. The shrine is a 5 minute walk from both stations. Open to the public from 0700H-1800H, no entrance fee.

Fushimi Inari Shrine torii gates

Nijo-jo

Nijo-jo is originally built in 1603 as the official residence of the first Tokugawa Shogun. Nijo castle is one of the most finest examples of early Edo Period as it makes splendid use of early Edo period building design, lavish paintings and carvings. The castle was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1994.

How to go to Nijo Castle:

Just ride any of bus # 93, 204, alight to Horikawa Marutamachi bus stop then walk around 300m away going to main entrance. Visiting hours from 0900H-1700H with entrance fee of 600yen. Food and tripod is not allowed inside. Taking video is prohibited also.