Fushimi Inari Shrine Tower Gate

The Romon Gate at Fushimi Inari Taisha stands out for its deep vermillion paint and the two muscular guardian statues housed in its side alcoves. Toyotomi Hideyoshi donated this massive two-story structure in fifteen eighty-nine. He had recently unified the country and prayed here for the health of his mother. The gate survived wars and fires that razed other parts of the shrine, acting as the main entrance for travelers who have climbed the path to seek divine favor for centuries.