“2.2K” can be rephrased as “2,200”
Guide to Japanese Temples and Shrines: A Compilation from Years of Visits to Japan
The ‘Land of the Rising Sun’ is home to over 160,000 traditional Japanese temples and shrines, each with its own fascinating history and stunning architectural beauty.
Kyoto: Japan’s Historic and Cultural Hub for Shrines and Temples
Explore my comprehensive guide to Japanese temples!
Best Accommodation Options in Kyoto
Top Traditional Shrines and Temples to Visit in Japan
1. The Temple of Todai-ji in Nara
Todai-ji Temple stands as one of the largest and most impressive landmarks in Japan.
The impressive history of this ancient monument and its significance as the world’s largest wooden building for a thousand years, as well as its housing of the largest bronze Buddha statue, adds to its allure.
We have been to Todai-ji a few times and it is definitely worth visiting. While exploring Nara Park, you will also find numerous other traditional Japanese temples and shrines.
Consider adding Nara to your Japan bucket list, as it is conveniently accessible for a day trip from Osaka or Kyoto.
Explore Further: Todai-ji Temple
2. The Kinkaku-ji Temple in Kyoto
One of the most iconic and renowned landmarks in Japan is the Kinkaku-ji Temple, also known as the Golden Pavilion.
The Most Popular Tourist Site in Kyoto: A Must-See for Picture-Perfect Moments!
The ideal time to visit is in the morning before the wind becomes strong, as this is when the pond reflects the surroundings. Unfortunately, during our visit, the wind was quite strong, so we couldn’t see any reflections.
Explore Kinkakuji Temple: Learn More About This Iconic Landmark
Ginkaku-ji Temple in Kyoto
Discover the lesser-known twin of the Golden Pavilion, the Silver Pavilion, located in eastern Kyoto (Higashiyama).
Also called the Higashiyama Jisho-ji, this temple has origins dating back to the 15th century when it was constructed as a mountain retreat for the shoguns.
The building has its own unique beauty and is very picturesque, featuring a dry sand garden and a raised cone resembling Mount Fuji.
Option 1: Tenryu-ji Temple in Kyoto
The construction of this temple took place in the 14th century and it can be found in the Arashiyama district of Kyoto.
The garden offers a beautiful landscape and stunning autumn foliage during the second week of November.
You’ll likely be close to Tenryu-ji if you’re visiting the popular tourist attractions in Kyoto, as it also borders the well-known Arashiyama Bamboo Grove.
Senso-ji Temple in Tokyo
Sensoji holds the title of Tokyo’s largest and most beloved temple, with the added distinction of being the city’s oldest, dating back to the 7th century.
The must-see traditional Japanese temple in Tokyo with a 5-story pagoda and popular giant paper lantern for photos!
Sensoji is also a fantastic location for buying souvenirs. We discovered a wide variety of wonderful items in the small shops lining the temple grounds.
Discover more about Sensoji Temple
Kawasaki Daishi Temple in Tokyo
Kawasaki Daishi: A Beautiful Temple in Kawasaki City, Tokyo Region.
A visit to this attraction in Tokyo is definitely worth it, even though it may not be as well-known as Sensoji.
The original structure dates back to the 12th century, but extensive damage during World War II led to its reconstruction. Despite being a modern replica, the current building retains its impressive and authentic appearance.
Explore More: Visit Kawasaki Daishi Temple
7. Temple of Hase-Dera (Kamakura)
A hill temple and Japanese shrine in Kamakura with possible origins dating back to the 8th century.
Explore the variety of captivating statues at this location, such as a 9-meter tall Kannon figure, which is among the largest wooden statues in Japan. Additionally, visitors can enjoy a panoramic view of the city and glimpse Sagami Bay from the top.
Hase-Dera is conveniently located near the iconic Great Buddha statue in Kamakura, allowing for a seamless visit to both attractions in a single day.
Arakura Sengen Shrine at Mount Fuji
Explore the stunning Fuji Five Lakes area on a day trip from Tokyo and take in the breathtaking views of Mount Fuji, the tallest peak in Japan and a beloved national symbol.
The Arakura Sengen shrine at Fuji includes the beautiful Chureito Pagoda, added in 1963 as a peace memorial, among other attractions.
Chureito: A stunning red 5-story pagoda with Mount Fuji in the background, one of the most iconic Japanese shrines and temples captured in photos!
Reserve Your Spot Now for a Day Trip or Private Tour to Mount Fuji
9. Fushimi Inari Shrine in Kyoto
A shrine in south Kyoto, dating back to the 8th century, is adorned with over 1,000 orange torii gates and is nestled within a lush forest.
Exploring the maze of gates is enjoyable, and there are also pleasant mountain trails to discover.
It can become quite crowded with tourists, so it’s recommended to visit in the early morning or late afternoon.
10. Temple of Kiyomizu-dera in Kyoto
One of Japan’s most renowned temples, perfect for enjoying autumn foliage.
The orange pagoda next to the main building was our favorite part to photograph at the Japanese temple, although most people focus on the main building. There are plenty of great photo opportunities around the temple!
Kiyomizu-dera, a Buddhist temple, was constructed in the eastern part of Kyoto in the 8th century.
11. Byodo-in Temple in Uji
An underappreciated temple in Uji, a quaint city nestled between Kyoto and Nara.
The Byodo-in Temple was constructed in the 11th century and is now depicted on the Japanese 10 yen coin.
Byodo-in Temple in Hawaii has a twin building that closely resembles the original in Japan and bears the same name, which is quite surprising!
Yasaka Pagoda in Kyoto at Age 12
You can’t visit the Higashiyama district in Kyoto without noticing the iconic pagoda towering over the other buildings.
The Yasaka Pagoda, with 5 stories, is a part of a temple that has its origins in the 6th century, despite being constructed in the 15th century.
You can find the best photos outside, but there is also an option to go inside (up to the 2nd floor of the pagoda) for a fee.
Great Kamakura Buddha Statue
One of Japan’s most well-known landmarks is the enormous Buddha statue located in Kamakura.
The bronze statue at Kotoku-in temple has been exposed to the elements since a tsunami destroyed the main building in the 15th century.
Kamakura is conveniently located just one hour south of Tokyo, making it an ideal day trip destination.
Etiquette at Japanese Temples
Visiting Traditional Shrines and Temples in Japan: What Tourists Need to Know
- Remember to remain calm and respectful, especially indoors. When entering temple buildings, it is customary to remove your shoes and leave them at the entrance or use the provided plastic bags. Taking photos is allowed on the temple grounds, but usually not inside the buildings, and if prohibited, there will be a sign posted. While most Japanese temples and shrines are free, some may have an entrance fee of less than 500 Yen ($5 USD) per person, which is usually valid for the entire day. In Kyoto and Tokyo, there are numerous kimono rental shops where you can rent traditional dress to wear to a Japanese temple. The locals do not mind foreigners wearing their traditional dress for photos, as it is a common sight.
Ideal Time for a Visit
Japanese temples and shrines are particularly stunning during the autumn and cherry blossom seasons, although this is also the time when they experience the highest number of visitors.
The timing of these seasons varies from year to year, but typically the cherry blossom season can be observed in the last week of March, and the fall colors reach their peak around mid-November (in the Kyoto area).
The optimal times to visit are early morning and late afternoon to avoid the midday crowds, particularly during holidays and peak seasons.
Make sure to arrive early in the morning at temples with ponds, such as Kinkakuji, to capture the reflections on the water before the wind disturbs them.
Have a joyful journey!
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Thank you for checking this out! I hope you found this list of top temples to visit in Japan enjoyable.
Make sure to take a look at my comprehensive travel guide for the top activities in Japan, which includes additional tips, information, and photographs!