I’ve compiled a guide to Kyoto temples and shrines after visiting Japan multiple times, in order to assist you in finding the top ones!
Kyoto, Japan: A Hub of Ancient Culture and Famous Shrines and Temples
Explore Kyoto’s Diverse Array of Temples and Shrines: A Comprehensive Guide
Best Accommodation Options in Kyoto
Top Traditional Shrines and Temples to Visit in Kyoto, Japan
Kinkaku-ji Temple in Kyoto, Japan
The Kinkaku-ji Temple, also known as the Golden Pavilion, holds a significant place as one of Japan’s most iconic and renowned landmarks.
This temple in Kyoto is the most visited for a reason – it’s nearly impossible to take a bad photo here! It’s definitely one of Kyoto’s top temples.
It’s best to visit in the morning before the wind gets strong, that way you can enjoy the reflections on the pond. Unfortunately, it was very windy when we went, so we missed out on seeing any reflections.
Discover more about the Kinkakuji Temple
2. The Temple of Ginkaku-ji
Discover the Silver Pavilion, Ginkaku-ji, in eastern Kyoto after visiting the Golden Pavilion.
The temple, also called the Higashiyama Jisho-ji, was constructed in the 15th century 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 that resembles Mount Fuji.
Tenryu-ji Temple – A Historical Landmark
The construction of this temple dates back to the 14th century and it can be found in the Arashiyama district of Kyoto.
The temple boasts a beautiful landscape garden and stunning autumn foliage, particularly in mid-November. This is the primary reason why it made my list of the top temples in Kyoto.
You’ll probably be close to the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove if you’re visiting the popular tourist spots in western Kyoto, since Tenryu-ji is also located nearby.
Fushimi Inari Shrine: A Must-See Destination
A Kyoto shrine from the 8th century is adorned with over 1,000 orange torii gates and is nestled within a forest.
Exploring the maze of gates is enjoyable, and there are also some pleasant mountain paths to hike.
It is advisable to visit this location early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the large crowds of tourists.
Kiyomizu-dera Temple: A Must-See Destination in Japan
This temple in Japan is widely renowned and also offers a lovely display of autumn foliage.
The main building is a popular spot for photos, but we actually loved the orange pagoda next to it the most. Overall, there are plenty of great photo opportunities around this Kyoto temple!
Kiyomizu-dera, a Buddhist temple, was constructed in the eastern part of Kyoto in the 8th century.
Yasaka Pagoda – A Historic Landmark
One cannot visit the Higashiyama district in Kyoto without catching a glimpse of this iconic pagoda towering over the surrounding buildings.
The Yasaka Pagoda, constructed in the 15th century, is comprised of 5 stories and is associated with a temple that originated in the 6th century.
Explore the stunning exterior photography opportunities and consider paying a fee to access the interior up to the 2nd floor of the pagoda.
Option 1: The Kennin-ji Temple
We came across a random temple while walking through the Higashiyama area of Kyoto.
This Zen temple in Kyoto was unknown to us at the time, but it is now recognized as one of the most important in the area. Established in 1202 AD, it is also thought to be the oldest Zen temple in Kyoto.
Nice pictures can be created using the colors white and black.
Byodo-in Temple in Uji
Underrated Temple in Uji: A Hidden Gem 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 an unexpected twin building that is strikingly similar and bears the same name!
9. The Temple of Todai-ji in Nara
Todai-ji Temple: A Remarkable Landmark in Japan that is Easily Accessible from Kyoto
The impressive ancient monument holds a fascinating history. It stood as the largest wooden building in the world for a thousand years and is home to the world’s largest bronze Buddha statue.
We have been to Todai-ji a few times and it is definitely worth a visit. Nara Park is also home to several other traditional Japanese temples and shrines if you explore the area.
Add a day trip to Nara from Kyoto or Osaka to your Japan itinerary! It’s easily accessible and worth a visit.
Discover More About Todai-ji Temple
Map of Temples in Kyoto
Explore Kyoto’s Temples with this Interactive Map for Your Japan Trip
You can find more in-depth guidance on navigating the Kyoto temples by referring to my specific travel guides for each destination on the map.
Etiquette at Japanese Temples
Visitors to Kyoto, Japan should be aware of certain rules and guidelines when visiting traditional shrines and temples.
- Maintain a calm and respectful demeanor, especially when indoors or visiting temple buildings in Kyoto. Remember to remove your shoes before entering and either leave them at the entrance or use provided plastic bags. Photography is generally allowed on temple grounds but not inside buildings, and any restrictions will be clearly indicated. While some temples and shrines are free to enter, others may have a small entrance fee of less than 500 Yen ($5 USD) per person, with tickets valid for the entire day. Consider renting a kimono from one of the many shops in Kyoto to wear when visiting a Japanese temple, as locals do not take offense to foreigners wearing traditional dress for photos.
Ideal Timing for a Visit
The temples and shrines in Kyoto are particularly stunning during the autumn and cherry blossom seasons, but they also tend to be very crowded during those times.
The timing of these seasons varies from year to year, but typically the sakura season (cherry blossoms) can be seen in the last week of March, and the fall colors peak around mid November (for the Kyoto area).
The ideal times to visit are early morning and late afternoon to avoid the crowds that gather at the temples by midday, particularly during holidays and peak seasons.
You should arrive early in the morning at temples with ponds (such as Kinkakuji) to capture the reflections on the water before the wind disturbs them.
Hotels in Kyoto
Top Kyoto Japan Tours
Discover additional guides for Japanese Shrines and Temples
We appreciate your interest! We hope you found this compilation of top temples to explore in Kyoto, Japan, enjoyable.
Before your trip, make sure to take a look at my comprehensive list of top activities in Japan! Additionally, my Japan Travel Guide includes additional tips, information, and photos for your reference.
Enjoy your journey!
Additional Resources
- Top Attractions in Japan: A Guide to the Best Temples, Shrines, and Cultural Experiences