Temples

Discover Japan's Most Popular Temples

Fushimi Inari shrine at Senbon Torii

Temples in Japan, known as tera (寺) or oji (お寺), are sacred sites of Buddhism, serving as places of worship, meditation, and cultural heritage. Unlike Shinto shrines, temples house Buddhist statues, relics, and altars for prayers and rituals. Key features include the main hall (hondo), pagodas, bell towers, and incense burners. Visitors typically bow, offer incense, and pray silently.

Explore Japan's Most Popular Temples

Kinkaku-ji temple, otherwise known as the Golden Temple in Kyoto prefecture

Kinkaku-ji (Golden Temple)

Kyoto's Famous Golden Temple

Asakusa (Senso-ji Temple), Asakusa Temple

Senso-ji (Asakusa Temple)

Step into traditional Japan

Todai-ji in Nara prefecture

Todai-ji Temple

Nara's Great Temple

Ginkaku-ji Main hall

Silver Temple (Ginkaku-ji, 銀閣寺)

The serene silver pavillion

Kiyomizudera is located close to Fushimi Iniar shrine

Kiyomizudera Temple

Famous Temple with views overlooking Kyoto

Kamakura Daibutsu at Kotoku-in Temple, Kanagawa

Kamakura Daibutsu (Kotokuin Temple)

The Great Buddha of Kamakura

More Notable Temples In Japan

Tenryu-ji in Kyoto prefecture

Tenryu-ji Temple

Zen temple with stunning gardens

Jorenji Temple in Tokyo Prefecture

Jorenji Temple (Tokyo Daibutsu)

Tokyo's giant Buddha statue

Asakusa (Senso-ji Temple), Asakusa Temple

Senso-ji (Asakusa Temple)

Step into traditional Japan

Kofuku-ji in Nara Prefecture

Kofuku-ji Temple

Large UNESCO Temple

Byodo-in Temple Kyoto

Byodo-in Temple – Kyoto

UNESCO Temple in Southern Kyoto

 

Explore Japan

Top Travel Tips

Getting a Japan Rail Pass is the easiest way to explore Japan, and see some of Japans natural attractions, and getting a JR Pass is one of our tips for travelling to Japan.

Japan Rail Pass | Travel Tips

Unlock Japan with the Japan Rail Pass

coin lockers in train stations are a great place to store luggage in Japan

Where to Store Luggage in Japan

Your guide to travelling Japan unincumbered

Bicycles are a great way to explore Japan, but Japan treats bikes differently than most countries.

Cycling in Japan – What you might want to know

General rules of thumb for cycling in Japan

For many first time travellers to Japan, you might have many questions about Japan, or need some clarification on the subject. Here's how we can help.

Frequently Asked Questions About Japan

Most commonly asked questions

Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture is on of Japan's hottest and most popular destinations. On this page, you will find things to do in Kyoto, where to stay in Kyoto, and attractions of Kyoto. Explore the Self-guided 2 Day Kyoto Itinerary, and see the top sites of kyoto in a day

2 Days in Kyoto – Kyoto Itinerary

Ideas for your 2-day trip to Kyoto

Explore More Destinations in Japan

Scroll to Top