Traditional Shrines & Temples To Visit in Japan
Best Traditional Shrines & Temples In Japan
1. Todai-ji Temple (Nara)
One of the largest and most magnificent landmarks in Japan is Todai-ji Temple.
The history of this enormous antique structure is fascinating. It contains the largest
bronze Buddha statue in the world and was the largest timber structure in the world
for a thousand years. The doors are enormous as well.
Todai-ji is a must-see, and we have been there a few times. There are numerous other
traditional Japanese temples and shrines in Nara Park if you search around.
2. Kinkaku-ji Temple (Kyoto)
One of the most recognizable and well-known locations in Japan is the Kinkaku-ji
Temple, sometimes referred to as the Golden Pavilion.
With good cause, it is the most popular tourist destination in Kyoto! A bad picture is
nearly impossible to capture here! This is the monarch of shrines and temples in
Japan.
The morning before the wind starts up is the ideal time to visit so you can view the
pond’s reflections. Unfortunately, there were no reflections because it was so
windy when we visited.
3. Ginkaku-ji Temple (Kyoto)
You might be interested in learning that the Silver Pavilion, also known as Ginkaku
ji, is the less well-known sibling of the Golden Pavilion. It’s not too diAicult to get to
this one, which is in Higashiyama, in eastern Kyoto.
This temple, also called the Higashiyama Jisho-ji, was first constructed as a
shogun’s mountain home in the fifteenth century.
With an elevated cone that resembles Mount Fuji and a dry sand garden, it’s a
stunning edifice in its own right and a great subject for photographs.
4. Tenryu-ji Temple (Kyoto)
This 14th-century temple is situated in the Arashiyama neighborhood of Kyoto.
If you visit around the middle of November, you’ll see amazing fall foliage and a
lovely landscape garden.
If you’re visiting Kyoto’s main tourist destinations, you’ll probably be close to
Tenryu-ji regardless because it shares a border with the well-known Arashiyama
Bamboo Grove.
5. Senso-ji Temple (Tokyo)
The largest and most well-known temple in Tokyo is Sensoji. Because it was
constructed in the seventh century, it is also the oldest.
This is the temple to see if you only have time to see one traditional Japanese
temple in Tokyo! It features a five-story pagoda, a gigantic Torri gate, and an
enormous paper lantern that makes for interesting pictures. You can even enter the
enormous main temple structure.
The current temple is a rebuild of the ancient structure, which was damaged in the
World War II firebombing of Tokyo, yet it still has the same magnificent appearance
as it did then.
6. Kawasaki Daishi Temple (Tokyo)
One of the better temples in the Tokyo region is Kawasaki Daishi, located in
Kawasaki City.
If you’re seeking more things to see in Tokyo, you should definitely stop by this one,
even though it’s not quite as large and well-known as the one at Sensoji.
Originally constructed in the 12th century, this one was largely damaged during
World War II. The current structure is a rebuild, yet it still appears real and is rather
stunning.
You pass dozens of hip stores selling food and gifts along the tiny street leading up
to the temple. The enormous main temple hall, a large five-story pagoda, and a gate
await you at the end of the roadway.
7. Arakura Sengen Shrine (Fuji)
You can take a day excursion from Tokyo to the breathtaking Fuji Five Lakes
region. As Japan’s tallest mountain, Mount Fuji is also one of its most
cherished symbols.
Among other things, the charming Chureito Pagoda, which was added to the
complex in 1963 as a peace memorial, is located near Fuji’s Arakura Sengen
shrine.
One of the most identifiable Japanese temples and shrines you will ever see
in photographs is Chureito, a stunning red five-story pagoda that is perfect for
taking images of with Mount Fuji in the backdrop!
8. Fushimi Inari Shrine (Kyoto)
Situated in south Kyoto, this shrine dates back to the eighth century and features
over 1,000 orange torii gates encircled by woodland.
The labyrinth of gates is entertaining to explore, and there are also pleasant
mountain routes.
However, it’s preferable to visit in the early morning or late afternoon because this
location can get extremely congested with tourists.
9. Byodo-in Temple (Uji)
Located in Uji, a little city halfway between Kyoto and Nara, this temple is
underrated.
Originally constructed in the eleventh century, Byodo-in Temple is now depicted on
the Japanese ten yen currency.
Surprisingly, Byodo-in Temple has a twin structure in Hawaii that is identical to it
and has the same name.
10. Great Buddha Statue (Kamakura)
One of Japan’s most well-known landmarks is the enormous Buddha statue at
Kamakura.
Part of the Kotoku-in temple, this bronze statue has been left outside since the
main structure was destroyed by a tsunami in the fifteenth century.
Given that Kamakura is about an hour south of Tokyo’s city center, it’s among the
most convenient day trips from Tokyo.
More Japanese Shrine & Temple Guides
I appreciate you looking! I hope this list of some of Japan’s top temples was
enjoyable.
For more advice, details, and pictures, make sure to check out my comprehensive travel guide on the top things to do in Japan!