Japan is home to numerous temples, each with a long history and unique architectural beauty. Ancient capitals like Nara and Kyoto are dotted with World Heritage temples, while Tokyo also boasts prestigious temples dating back to the Edo period. Walking through temple grounds, you can experience the beauty of nature’s four seasons in tranquil surroundings, while architectural details showcase the craftsmanship and aesthetic sensibilities of artisans. Many Buddhist statues and gardens are designated as National Treasures or Important Cultural Properties, making these precious places where you can experience Japanese history and culture firsthand.
This article introduces the origins and highlights of eight representative temples in Japan, along with etiquette and dress codes for visiting.
1. Eight of Japan’s Most Famous Temples
Japan’s representative temples serve as travel destinations in their own right, thanks to their historical depth and architectural beauty. Here, we introduce eight well-known temples, from famous temples in Nara and Kyoto to prominent temples in the heart of major cities, explaining their origins and highlights.
1-1. Todai-ji
Located in Nara City, Nara Prefecture, Todai-ji is the head temple of the Kegon school of Buddhism, spreading across the approximately 660-hectare Nara Park. This temple was founded in the 8th century by Emperor Shomu, who prayed for national peace. It was registered as a UNESCO World Heritage site as part of “Historic Monuments of Ancient Nara” in 1998. The Great Buddha Hall, known as one of the world’s largest wooden structures, houses the seated Vairocana Buddha statue (the Great Buddha of Nara), and passing through the pillar hole inside the hall is also popular.
The Nio guardian statues at the Great South Gate, ancient Buddhist statues in the Hokke-do (Sangatsu-do), the terrace of Nigatsu-do, and the Shoso-in treasure house are among the many National Treasures and Important Cultural Properties scattered throughout. The history of repeated reconstruction following wars and fires is also noteworthy. The Shunie ceremony (Omizutori) in early spring and autumn foliage are particularly recommended, and the scenery of deer walking the grounds with the Great Buddha Hall creates a quintessentially Nara atmosphere. The approach is wide, allowing you to explore various halls while strolling.
1-2. Horyu-ji
Horyu-ji in Ikaruga Town, Nara Prefecture, is said to have been founded in the early 7th century as a temple associated with Prince Shotoku. After a fire, buildings reconstructed from the late 7th to 8th centuries remain, highly regarded as one of the world’s oldest wooden architectural complexes. In the Sai-in Garan (Western Precinct), the unique arrangement of the Golden Hall and Five-Story Pagoda standing side by side, surrounded by corridors, is a highlight.
The details of the Middle Gate and corridors, and the curve of the Five-Story Pagoda’s roof, are architectural beauties not to be missed. The Shaka Triad in the Golden Hall and the Kudara Kannon in the treasure house (Daihozoin) showcase the deep appeal of ancient Buddhist statues. The Yumedono in the Eastern Precinct and Shoryoin exude a quiet atmosphere where you can feel the history of Prince Shotoku worship. Walking through the spacious grounds conveys the spirit of Asuka culture. In 1993, it was registered as Japan’s first UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site along with Himeji Castle.
1-3. Kinkaku-ji
Rokuon-ji in Kita Ward, Kyoto City, is a temple of the Rinzai school Shokoku-ji sect, converted from the villa “Kitayama-dono” of Ashikaga Yoshimitsu, the third shogun of the Muromachi shogunate. It is commonly known as Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion). The gold leaf-covered Shariden (Golden Pavilion) is an architectural wonder combining different styles: the first floor in shinden-zukuri (aristocratic mansion) style, the second floor in buke-zukuri (samurai house) style, and the third floor in Zen Buddhist hall style, with a symbolic phoenix atop the roof. It was destroyed by fire in 1950 and rebuilt in 1955.
Highlights include the inverted reflection of the Golden Pavilion on the surface of Kyoko-chi Pond, the composition of the garden with islands such as Ashihara-jima, and the view from Sekka-tei tea house. The grounds follow a set path, and the pavilion’s brilliance and expression change with the season and time of day. It was registered as a UNESCO World Heritage site as part of “Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto” in 1994. Due to frequent crowding, early morning visits are advisable, allowing you to appreciate the Golden Pavilion from various angles. The snow-covered winter scenery is also a Kyoto tradition. Fresh greenery and autumn foliage are also popular.
1-4. Ginkaku-ji
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Higashiyama Jisho-ji (commonly known as Ginkaku-ji or Silver Pavilion) in Sakyo Ward, Kyoto City, originated as the villa “Higashiyama-dono” built by Ashikaga Yoshimasa, the eighth shogun of the Muromachi shogunate, during the chaotic period of the Onin War. After Yoshimasa’s death, it became a Zen temple. Although not covered in silver leaf, it came to be called Ginkaku-ji during the Edo period in contrast to Kinkaku-ji. Highlights include the Kannon-den (Silver Pavilion) and Togudo, the white sand garden “Ginshadan,” the Kogetsudai moon-viewing platform, and the scenery of moss gardens and ponds.
The white sand is said to reflect moonlight, enhancing the quiet elegance.Passing through the approach path called “Ginkaku-ji-gaki” (Ginkaku-ji hedge) from the main gate, the atmosphere shifts, and you can experience understated, refined beauty. Climbing the path up the back mountain offers views of the entire garden and Kyoto cityscape, and the autumn foliage season is also popular. It was registered as a UNESCO World Heritage site as part of “Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto” in 1994.
1-5. Kiyomizu-dera
Kiyomizu-dera, spreading across the mid-slope of Mount Otowa in Kyoto, is said to have been founded in 778 and has been beloved by common people as a temple of Kannon worship. It was registered as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1994. The grounds cover approximately 130,000 square meters, with over 30 halls and pagodas including National Treasures and Important Cultural Properties. After repeated destruction by fire and reconstruction, most of the current buildings were completed around 1633.
The “Kiyomizu Stage” of the Main Hall juts out over a cliff, supported by wooden framework without using nails.From the stage, you can overlook Kyoto city, with cherry blossoms, fresh greenery, and autumn foliage seasons being particularly popular. The vermillion Nio-mon Gate, the approximately 31-meter-tall Three-Story Pagoda, and Otowa Waterfall with its three streams are must-sees, and the scenery changes as you walk through the grounds. The liveliness of the approach path is also part of the travel experience. Special evening illuminations can be enjoyed during nighttime visits.
1-6. Byodoin Phoenix Hall
Byodoin in Uji City, Kyoto Prefecture, is a temple where Fujiwara no Yorimichi converted a villa into a temple in 1052 and built the Amida Hall (Phoenix Hall) the following year in 1053. The Phoenix Hall, known from the 10-yen coin, is characterized by its symmetrical appearance seeming to float on a pond, with a seated Amida Nyorai statue by Jocho enshrined inside. The wing corridors and tail corridors extending left and right from the central hall make the entire building resemble a phoenix spreading its wings, which is also a highlight.
After the Heisei restoration from 2012 to 2014, the roof and paintwork were restored, and the golden phoenixes are eye-catching. Walking around Aji Pond, arranged as a Pure Land garden, the scenery changes with each angle, and morning light is ideal for photography. At the Hoshokan Museum, you can view National Treasures such as the temple bell, and during autumn foliage season, reflections on the water surface become especially beautiful. It was registered as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1994.
1-7. Enryaku-ji on Mount Hiei
Enryaku-ji on Mount Hiei, spanning the border between Shiga and Kyoto prefectures, is the head temple of the Tendai school of Buddhism, founded by Saicho in 788. It was registered as a UNESCO World Heritage site as part of “Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto” in 1994. The entire mountain area of Mount Hiei serves as the temple grounds, with about 100 halls scattered throughout, divided into three areas: Todo (Eastern Pagoda), Saito (Western Pagoda), and Yokawa. The Konpon Chudo in Todo is the central hall, and walking through the corridors, the atmosphere becomes solemn. In the inner sanctuary, the eternal Dharma light “Fumetsu no Hoto” has been continuously maintained. Many monks studied here, and some later founded various Buddhist sects.
After reconstruction following wartime destruction and fires during the Warring States period, visitors can now enjoy worship and forest walks. From the mountaintop, you can view Lake Biwa and Kyoto cityscape, with fresh spring greenery, autumn foliage, and winter snow scenes as highlights. The spacious grounds are conveniently accessible by shuttle bus.
1-8. Senso-ji
Senso-ji in Taito Ward, Tokyo, is one of Tokyo’s oldest temples, with origins in the legend of a Kannon statue discovered in the Sumida River in 628. The Kannon Hall was established in 645, and the principal image has been protected as a hidden Buddha. It gathered faith in the Edo townscape and developed in connection with the bustle of Asakusa, which is its distinctive feature.
The Kaminarimon Gate and its large lantern at the entrance are symbols of Asakusa, and you can approach the Main Hall while selecting sweets and souvenirs along Nakamise-dori. The Nio statues at Hozomon Gate and giant straw sandals, the vermillion Five-Story Pagoda, and the Important Cultural Property Denpoin are also highlights. The ceiling paintings in the Main Hall are famous, and walking around the grounds between worship visits reveals the different expressions of the buildings. At night, illumination creates a calm atmosphere different from daytime.
2. Etiquette and Dress Code for Temple Visits
At temples, it’s advisable to avoid clothing with excessive skin exposure, flashy colors, or extremely casual attire such as sandals. When participating in memorial services or ceremonies, also refrain from leather products, fur, or materials that evoke the taking of life. For photography, check posted signs and ask monks or staff before proceeding, and do not use flash or tripods without permission. Handle shared items such as prayer beads, chairs, and information boards carefully, and return them to their original places after use. It’s also important to avoid loud voices on approach paths or in main halls and be considerate not to block walkways.
Summary
Todai-ji is symbolized by the Great Buddha Hall, one of the world’s largest wooden structures, while Horyu-ji is known as one of the world’s oldest wooden architectural complexes. Kyoto’s Kinkaku-ji is beautiful with its gold leaf-covered Shariden reflecting in the pond, while Ginkaku-ji offers the quiet elegance of white sand gardens and moss gardens. From Kiyomizu-dera’s stage, you can overlook Kyoto city, and Byodoin Phoenix Hall is familiar from the 10-yen coin design.
Additionally, Enryaku-ji on Mount Hiei, as the head temple of the Tendai school, has halls scattered throughout its vast mountain grounds, while Tokyo’s Senso-ji conveys Edo-period faith and bustle to the present day. Understanding the history and beauty of each temple will provide a deeper worship experience.
*This article was created based on information as of December 2025.
