Discover the 7 Temples and Shrines in Japan You Must Visit

Japan is home to some of the world's most fascinating spiritual and architectural sites. If you're planning a trip, these temples and shrines are essential stops that connect you with the country's history, spirituality, and art.

Kinkaku-ji (Kyoto)

Known as the Golden Pavilion, this Zen temple in northern Kyoto is striking at first sight: its two upper floors are completely covered in gold leaf. It was the retirement villa of Shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu and, after his death in 1408, became a temple of the Rinzai sect according to his wishes.

The current building is a 1955 reconstruction, as the original was destroyed by a fire started by a monk in 1950. Built next to a large pond, each of its floors represents a different architectural style. It reflects the opulent Kitayama culture of the aristocracy of that era.

Tōdai-ji (Nara)

In Nara, Tōdai-ji is one of Japan's most historically significant temples. Built in 752 as the head temple of all provincial Buddhist temples in the country, it became so influential that the capital had to be moved away from Nara in 784 to reduce its power in government affairs.

Its main hall, the Daibutsuden, houses one of Japan's largest bronze Buddha statues (Daibutsu). This impressive seated figure stands 15 meters tall and depicts Vairocana, flanked by two Bodhisattvas. Although the current reconstruction from 1692 is only two-thirds the original size, the sense of grandeur remains.

Tenryū-ji (Kyoto)

Located in the heart of Arashiyama, this temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Kyoto's five great Zen temples. It was built in 1339 in memory of Emperor Go-Daigo.

Its garden, Sogenchi, is a national historic site and one of its biggest attractions. Over the centuries, the temple has suffered eight major fires. The current complex dates from the 19th century and houses important Zen artifacts, such as the famous painting "Dragon Emerging from the Clouds."

Tō-ji (Kyoto)

Literally "Eastern Temple," Tō-ji was founded in the late 700s, shortly after the capital was established in Kyoto. Together with its now-vanished twin temple, Saiji ("Western Temple"), it guarded the southern entrance to the city. Today, it is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The monk Kobo Daishi, founder of the Shingon Buddhist sect, was appointed head priest here, making it a crucial temple. A helpful tip: if you visit Kyoto on the 21st of any month, you can enjoy a bustling flea market on its grounds, with a wide variety of goods.

Futarasan (Nikkō)

This Shinto shrine is located next to the famous Toshogu Shrine in the center of Nikko. It was founded in 782 by Shodo Shonin, the monk who introduced Buddhism to the area. It is dedicated to the deities of Nikko's three sacred mountains: Nantai, Nyoho, and Taro.

Most of the grounds are free to enter, except for a small paid area that includes a garden with trees, several halls, and a spring. The Shinkyo Bridge, located one kilometer away, also belongs to this shrine.

Fushimi Inari (Kyoto)

This is the most important of the thousands of Shinto shrines dedicated to Inari, the god of rice. It is world-famous for its thousands of vermilion torii gates that form pathways leading up Mount Inari.

Foxes are considered messengers of Inari, so you'll see many statues of them at this shrine. The shrine has ancient origins, predating Kyoto's establishment as the capital in 794. Walking along its winding paths through the forest is a unique experience.

For Your Trip

If you're looking for a more peaceful atmosphere, try getting up earlier and arriving as soon as possible. This way you avoid the crowds and have time to stroll through its gardens, bridges... and of course, take better photos.