Inari Shrine

| Kyoto |

6 AM

I was sleeping in my bed-sized room - this is a capsule hotel -

when my alarm went off. A good thing about these capsule hotels, you feel the need to jump out of bed quicker than normal - might have something to do with the casket like space, I don’t know - but it was also easy to get out, because the Fushimi Inari Shrine was first on our agenda.

Breakfast consisted of miso soup with tofu and seaweed, a hot cup of green tea, and rice with a dark, rich, umami-mushroom sauce (a light but hearty breakfast and one I came to look forward to each morning). The idea was to get to Fushimi before the sun came up. So far, we were on schedule.

6:40 AM

We dropped beneath Kyoto to hit the subway. We checked the map and counted how many stops it was until we would exit to catch another train.

Kyoto is a very modern city with a plethora of cultural attractions to see. It’s an amazing city that’s very accessible and offers an exciting dining scene.

7:10 AM

Stepping off the train and onto the platform, I checked to the East to see the sun’s rays just beginning to crest over the horizon. The Torii Gates was ahead and not many people up and about; Perfect.

We hustled down the stairs and crossed the street. I flicked my camera on mid-stride and saw the gates before us. I couldn’t wait to start shooting.

Fushimi is beautiful by itself. But, having the low-angle sunshine made for even better shots. If you’re thinking of going to Fushimi Inari Shrine, remember to go early.