Fushimi Inari Hidden Waterfall Sacred Takigyo Ritual Experience
Active
2h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Join a tour by us, proud winner of the Best of the Best Award. Each experience is led by a Certified Guide, professionally trained and carefully selected to ensure quality and authenticity.
Discover waterfall purification in Kyoto through takigyo, a Shinto ritual guided by a priest. Wear traditional attire, receive blessings, and immerse yourself beneath a sacred waterfall for a meaningful spiritual experience. This 2.5-hour small-group tour includes offerings, guided prayers, and a Q&A, offering insight into Shinto beliefs. Ideal for couples, friends, and solo travelers exploring Japanese spirituality
- 2.5-hour small group tour led by an English-speaking guide - Engage in the sacred takigyo ritual at a hidden shrine - Create personal offerings and participate in a guided prayer - Enjoy a warm shower and reflective drink after the purification ceremony
Available options
Water Purification Included
Includes Water Purification Experience
No Water Purification
Without Water Purification Experience
What's included
Hidden shrine
A Certified guide
Tour Photos
Share the offerings with the gods
Detailed itinerary
1
Meet in front of FamilyMart at Tofukuji Station
In front of Family Mart Nakai Tofukuji Store
Outside of Tofukuji Station EXIT 2, Next to the Family Mart
［From Kyoto station to Tofukuji station］Please use JR line：You can use both rapid trains and local trains.
［From Shijyo keihan to Tofukuji station］Please use Keihan line : You can use sub-express trains, semi express trains and local trains. Please DO NOT USE express trains.
Your guide will be holding a red or orange sign.
The Google Maps link points to the building with a FamilyMart convenience store.
The building with the FamilyMart is pinned on the map.
2
Visit Goshano-taki Shrine
Explanation about the shrine and the waterfall (with interpreted)
egin your journey by meeting your local guide at the designated spot and walking together to the sacred waterfall purification site. At the shrine, learn about its history and spiritual significance, and meet the Shinto priest who will explain the meaning of takigyo, the traditional Japanese waterfall meditation practice
3
Room orientation and overview of the tour flow
Lecture on copying divine words (Shin-kotoba) & decide the order for waterfall practice
Receive detailed instructions on the full flow of the waterfall purification ritual, decide the order of participants, and learn how to copy divine words (Shin-kotoba) from the priest. Change into traditional takigyo attire in private rooms, and get ready for your turn to walk to the waterfall with your guide. This preparatory stage ensures every participant understands the process and feels confident, combining cultural insight with practical guidance for an authentic and safe experience.
4
Change into Gyo-yi ritual attire
Waterfall purification (takigyo)
At the waterfall, the Shinto priest chants sacred prayers as you immerse yourself under the flowing water.
5
Prepare offerings with priest
Start of the prayer ritual
Drink sacred sake or non-alcoholic amazake, Q&A session
Afterward, refresh with a warm shower and copy the divine words in a calm room. Learn to create your own offerings under the priest’s guidance, present them to the gods, and taste them as part of the ritual. Conclude with a Q&A session, where you can ask the priest about the practices and meanings, making this a complete and deeply engaging cultural and spiritual experience.
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
To respect all participants, the tour will start on time. Guests arriving late will not be able to join, reschedule, or receive a refund. Please note that there may be other participants on the same tour.
Guests under 15 years old and those aged 65 or older are not eligible to participate in the waterfall purification (takigyo). They may observe only, but if you originally booked for takigyo and decide to observe instead upon arrival, no refund will be provided.
During the waterfall purification (takigyo), you will change into a white ritual outfit. Since it may become see-through after the takigyo, we recommend wearing a swimsuit underneath. If you forget to bring one, disposable undergarments are available for purchase at the shrine for 100 yen.
While other participants from the same group are performing takigyo, please wait quietly in your own room.
The tour may be canceled due to traffic conditions, weather, facility operations, or safety reasons.
The tour fee includes the takigyo experience, shrine entrance, a towel for after the shower, and the offerings set.
Meeting point
Meet outside Tofukuji Station Exit 2, next to FamilyMart. From Kyoto Station, take JR rapid or local trains. From Shijo Keihan, use Keihan sub-express, semi-express, or local trains (no express). Look for a red or orange “MagicalTrip” sign. The map pin marks the FamilyMart building.
About Kyoto
Kyoto, once the imperial capital of Japan, is a city rich in history, culture, and tradition. Known for its numerous classical Buddhist temples, as well as gardens, imperial palaces, Shinto shrines, and traditional wooden houses, Kyoto offers a unique blend of ancient and modern Japan. The city is a must-visit for travelers seeking to experience the heart of Japanese heritage.
Top Attractions
Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)
A Zen Buddhist temple covered in gold leaf, Kinkaku-ji is one of Kyoto's most iconic landmarks. The temple's top two floors are completely covered in gold leaf, reflecting beautifully on the surrounding pond.
Historical/Religious
1-2 hours
¥400
Fushimi Inari Taisha
Famous for its thousands of vermilion torii gates, Fushimi Inari Taisha is a Shinto shrine dedicated to Inari, the god of rice. The trails leading up the mountain offer stunning views of Kyoto.
Religious
2-4 hours (depending on how far you hike)
Free
Kiyomizu-dera
A historic wooden temple with a large veranda supported by massive wooden pillars, Kiyomizu-dera offers panoramic views of Kyoto. The temple is particularly famous for its spring and autumn foliage.
Religious
1-2 hours
¥400
Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
A stunning grove of bamboo, Arashiyama is one of Kyoto's most famous natural attractions. The towering bamboo stalks create a surreal and peaceful atmosphere.
Nature
1-2 hours
Free (Tenryu-ji Temple costs ¥500)
Gion
Kyoto's most famous geisha district, Gion is known for its traditional wooden machiya houses, teahouses, and the chance to spot geishas and maikos (apprentice geishas).
Cultural
1-2 hours (longer if dining or attending a cultural event)
Free to explore (dining and cultural events can be expensive)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Kaiseki Ryori
A traditional multi-course Japanese meal that emphasizes seasonality and presentation. Each dish is carefully prepared and artfully presented.
Dinner
Often includes fish, meat, and vegetables, but vegetarian options are available.
Yudofu (Tofu Hot Pot)
A Kyoto specialty featuring tofu simmered in a light kombu (kelp) broth, often served with vegetables and condiments.
Lunch/Dinner
Vegetarian-friendly, can be made vegan if broth is vegetable-based.
Matcha Desserts
Kyoto is famous for its high-quality matcha (green tea) powder, used in various desserts like ice cream, parfaits, and wagashi (traditional sweets).
Dessert
Vegetarian and vegan options available.
Obanzai
Home-style Kyoto dishes made with fresh, local ingredients, often featuring vegetables, fish, and tofu.
Lunch/Dinner
Can be adapted to various dietary preferences.
Popular Activities
Hiking in the mountains
Cycling through the countryside
Rafting on the Hozu River
Onsen (hot spring) visits
Tea ceremonies
Scenic walks in gardens and parks
Temple and shrine visits
Traditional tea ceremonies
Best Time to Visit
March to May (Spring), October to November (Autumn)
Spring and autumn offer pleasant weather and are the best times to visit for cherry blossoms and autumn foliage. These seasons also see the highest tourist volumes.
15°C to 25°C (Spring), 10°C to 20°C (Autumn)
59°F to 77°F (Spring), 50°F to 68°F (Autumn)
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Japanese
- Widely spoken: English (limited)
- English: Limited/Rare
Currency
Japanese Yen (JPY)
Time Zone
JST (UTC+9)
Electricity
100VV, 50/60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Very safe
Kyoto is a very safe city with a low crime rate. Violent crime is rare, and petty crime is uncommon. However, as with any tourist destination, it's important to take basic precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- • Be cautious of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas
- • Use reputable tour operators and taxis
Getting there
By air
- Kansai International Airport • 115 km from Kyoto
- Osaka International Airport (Itami) • 40 km from Kyoto
By train
Kyoto Station
By bus
Kyoto Station Bus Terminal
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are the most extensive and affordable way to get around Kyoto. They cover most areas of the city and are especially useful for reaching temples and shrines.
Taxis
Available • Apps: JapanTaxi, INDRIVER
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Gion
Higashiyama
Arashiyama
Downtown Kyoto (Shijo-Kawaramachi)
Day trips
Nara
40 km from Kyoto • Half day to full day
Nara is a historic city known for its ancient temples, shrines, and the famous Nara Park, home to hundreds of free-roaming deer.
Uji
20 km from Kyoto • Half day
Uji is a small city known for its historic temples, beautiful riverside scenery, and high-quality matcha (green tea).
Kurama and Kibune
25 km from Kyoto • Full day
Kurama and Kibune are two neighboring villages in the mountains north of Kyoto, known for their hot springs, hiking trails, and scenic beauty.
Festivals
Gion Matsuri • July (main events on July 17th and 24th)
Jidai Matsuri • October 22nd
Aoi Matsuri • May 15th
Pro tips
- Visit popular attractions like Fushimi Inari Taisha and Kinkaku-ji early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds.
- Consider purchasing a Kyoto City Bus Pass or other transportation passes to save money on getting around the city.
- Try local specialties like yudofu (tofu hot pot), matcha desserts, and obanzai (home-style Kyoto dishes).
- Explore the city's many temples and shrines, but don't forget to take time to enjoy the natural beauty of Kyoto's gardens and parks.
- Learn a few basic Japanese phrases to enhance your experience and show respect for local customs and traditions.
$60
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
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