Each of these temples and shrines provides a distinct cultural and spiritual experience. Be certain to make a stop during your next journey to Japan.
Japan is a destination highly sought after for its captivating blend of traditional and modern elements. At the core of this contrasting coexistence lies numerous breathtaking temples and shrines, which provide a profound insight into Japan’s profound historical and spiritual legacies.
- Kinkaku-ji
- Tōdai-ji
- Fushimi Inari Shrine
- Kiyomizu-dera
- Meiji-Jingu
- Kōtoku-in
- Itsukushima Shrine
- Ryoan-ji
- Hōryū-ji
- Zenrin-ji
10. Toshogu Shrine in Nikko: A UNESCO World Heritage site and the final resting place of Tokugawa Ieyasu, the founder of the Tokugawa shogunate.
Kinkaku-ji Temple, literally ‘Temple of the Golden Pavilion’ – Kyoto
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Tōdai-ji – Nara
Tōdai-ji, located in Nara, stands out among Japan’s historic landmarks. It houses the iconic bronze statue of the Great Buddha (Daibutsu), a colossal bronze monument and one of the largest in the world. The temple grounds are equally striking, featuring grand wooden doors and lantern-lined avenues. Sika deer, revered as divine messengers, roam freely in the adjacent park.
Fushimi Inari Shrine – Kyoto
Leading up to Inari Mountain is a stunning tunnel that forms a beautiful entrance. Visitors can stroll along the winding paths of this tunnel to take in panoramic views of Kyoto.
Kiyomizu-dera – Kyoto
The temple boasts of its outstanding views of the city and cherry blossom trees during the ephemeral sakura season. The temple also holds significant importance as a major Buddhist pilgrimage site.
Meiji-Jingu Shrine – Tokyo
Located in Yoyogi Park, a popular spot in Tokyo, Meiji-Jingu Shrine is one of Japan’s most frequented and renowned shrines. It was constructed to pay tribute to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken. A striking wooden torii gate marks the entrance to the shrine. The area surrounding the shrine, which is a park, offers a welcome respite from Tokyo’s fast-paced atmosphere.
Kōtoku-in – Kamakura
Kōtoku-in Temple, situated in Kamakura, boasts the renowned Kamakura Daibutsu, a 13.35-metre-high bronze Buddha statue dating back to the 13th century. For a particularly singular experience, visitors may take the unusual step of entering the statue.
Itsukushima – Miyajima
These structures appear to float on the water at high tide. The shrine is an outstanding example of Shinto architecture and is situated in a serene natural setting, with Mount Misen as a scenic backdrop.
Ryoan-ji – Kyoto
The Ryoan-ji Temple is renowned for its stone garden, which is one of Japan’s most celebrated stone gardens in the world. It consists of 15 stones arranged in such a manner that, regardless of your viewpoint, you can see only 14 of them at a time. This composition is meant to foster meditation and reflection.
Hōryū-ji – Nara
Hōryū-ji Temple is one of the oldest Buddhist temples in Japan, dating back to the 7th century. It is renowned for its preserved wooden architecture, including the legendary Yumedono, or “Dream Pavilion”, and is home to precious Buddhist relics.
Zenrin-ji (Eikan-do) – Kyoto
Zempoitsu-ji Temple, also known as Eikan-do, is a Zen Buddhist temple famous for its stunning autumn garden. During autumn, the maple trees and garden surroundings turn brilliant shades, making the scenery breathtaking.
