The complex of Fushimi Inari Shrine is one of the most remarkable sights in southern Kyōto. The impressive complex was dedicated to a Shinto god (Shinto gods are known as 'kami') by the Hata family in the 8th century, and encompasses five shrines. Curiously, the deity the entire complex is dedicated to – Inari Ōkami – is one of the principle Shinto kami, whose circle of influence includes foxes, rice, sake, agriculture and industry, and even general success and prosperity. The spotlight here goes to the 5,000 of vermilion gates (known as Senbon torii), that lead up to the summit of 233m Mt. Inari-san. The Romon Gate at the shrine’s entrance was donated in 1589 by the samurai warlord, Toyotomi Hideyoshi. Stone foxes also play an important role here, as they are considered to be messengers of Inari.

The original little temple atop a hill was destroyed by a typhoon back in the 1950s, and then later rebuilt at its current location. Walking up the path to the structure, you will pass 1200 stone statues representing the disciples of Buddha, which have been carved by a priest and townspeople who learned the craft from him. This off-the-beaten-trail temple is an amazing site for those looking to go beyond tourist staples.

This festival, organised by DEPO2015, celebrates dishes from all over the world, and you will soon notice that street food hides much more than American burgers and Hungarian langos. Stay tuned about the dates, as the feast normally happens twice or thrice a year, and you will experience flavours and taste from all around the globe that you will probably never (or not before long) meet again.

For one night each year, the gates of churches and various praying areas are opened in the evening time, and you can then visit places that are not accessible during the year. While you can expect great architecture and interesting insights, a rich cultural programme will also entertain you that night.