Timeline
06:26
Arrive at Saijo Inari to find a quiet spot near the entrance. The shrine complex is large, so give yourself time to walk up from the bus stop and settle in before the sun crests the horizon.
07:11
Watch the sunrise. The morning light breaks over the shrine grounds, illuminating the historic structures against the backdrop of Mount Ryuo.
07:26
Take a slow walk through the shrine grounds while the air is still and cool. The legend of the white fox and the cured emperors adds a layer of quiet reverence to the morning mist.
07:56
Head back down toward the station. Since there are no food or drink options listed nearby, check the route back to Okayama Station to find breakfast once the shops open for the day.
Local tip
Buses run from outside the east exit of JR Okayama Station. Disembark at 'Inariyama' and walk 5 minutes to the shrine. Arrive early to secure a good viewing spot.
Built from places in the Wikivoyage guide to Okayama (CC BY-SA 4.0), with open map data from OpenStreetMap contributors (ODbL).