Temples & Shrines in Japan: A Traveler's Guide
When you visit Japan, you’re going to see a lot of temples and shrines.
For travelers, Japan’s sacred sites offer unique architecture and, in many cases, attractive grounds that often feature beautiful gardens.
But for Japanese people, a visit to a shrine or temple is much more than walking through a garden. These places of worship have spiritual, religious and cultural significance.
What’s more, shrines and temples are not the same thing. They do, in fact, belong to two separate and distinct religions. Using these terms interchangeably would be like mixing the terms “church,” “synagogue” and “mosque” freely without regard to specific religion.
So let’s talk about the differences between shrines and temples – and between Shinto and Buddhism. Why is that important? Because understanding the differences between temples and shrines, their history, and their significance will make your Japan travel experience more authentic and better aligned with the “real Japan.”
Temples vs. Shrines: What’s the Difference?
At first glance, temples and shrines may seem quite similar, especially to those new to Japan. Some travelers even use the words interchangeably. Here’s why that’s… not good.
Shinto and Buddhism are separate religions.
Shrines are Shinto.
Temples are Buddhist.
Their purposes, designs and respective religions are distinct. Knowing whether you’re visiting a temple or a shrine tells you the significance of the place you’re at (the specific site, that is, not just Japan in general).
Some background info on these two religions is coming right up. And later, we’ll talk about visiting shrines and temples — and how to do so with respect for Japanese cultural norms.
What we’ll say for now is that all Japanese are born Shinto. It’s in their souls, their history and their DNA. Throughout one’s life, it’s much more common – on a day-to-day basis – to engage in Shino spiritual practices and traditions. There are times when Japanese people engage in Buddhist rituals, most notably at funerals and times of memorial. Many Japanese people also incorporate aspects of Christianity in their lives, especially at weddings.
As the old saying in Japan goes, “you are born Shinto, marry Christian and die Buddhist.”
Buddhist Temples (Tera or Otera)
Buddhist temples in Japan, often referred to as “tera” or “otera,” are places of worship for followers of Buddhism.
Though Buddhism and Japan are seen as having a strong connection, this is not a religion that was native to Japan.
Introduced from China and Korea in the 6th century, Buddhism quickly integrated into Japan’s cultural and political life. Many temples in Japan feature statues of Buddha, “Zen” (that’s a Japanese form of Buddhism) gardens designed for meditation, as well as sacred artifacts that hold spiritual significance.
Temples in Japan typically include:
A main hall (hondo) housing what’s usually a Buddha or bodhisattva statue or altar
A pagoda, symbolizing the connection between heaven and earth
A bell tower, where monks ring the temple bell during important ceremonies
A gate (mon) marking the entrance to the temple grounds, which symbolizes the transition from the mundane world to the sacred
We’ll get into some of the famous Buddhist temples in Japan in just a bit – those include Senso-ji in Tokyo; Kinkaku-ji & Kiyomizu-dera in Kyoto; and Todai-ji in Nara with its famous big bronze Buddha statue.
Also, notice a lot of temples ending in “ji”? That’s no coincidence. The word “tera” has alternative pronunciations, depending on the words/characters around it; “dera” is one such pronunciation, and a common one is “ji.”
Shinto Shrines (Jinja) – Japan’s Spiritual Soul
Shinto shrines are dedicated to kami, the deities or spirits that embody aspects of nature, ancestors or historical figures.
Kami-sama, as the vaunted form of the word is used, are everywhere and in everything / everyone. According to Shinto, the gods can be found in nature, in people… even in animals. If you visit Japan’s ancient capital of Nara, on a day trip from Kyoto for example, you’ll encounter the famous deer who are said to be messengers of the gods.
As Japan’s indigenous religion, Shinto is deeply tied to the natural world and emphasizes harmony between human beings and nature. Shrines are often located in natural settings – among trees, in parks, in/near mountains or by water – adding to their calming and sacred atmosphere.
Shinto shrines are easily identified by their:
Torii gates, the large wooden or stone gates that mark the boundary between the secular and spiritual worlds
Purification fountains (temizuya) where the visitor cleanses their hands & mouth before entering the shrine
Sacred objects, such as rocks, trees or waterfalls, which may be tied with a sacred rope
Shide (zigzag-shaped paper streamers), often used as offerings or decorations around sacred spaces
When you see the torii gates to a Shinto shrine – such as the famous Ten Thousand torii of Kyoto’s Fushimi Inari Shrine – the first and biggest one is the main entrance, and people stop to bow under it. Many torii are painted in a shade of orange and/or red; but other torii gates are natural (stained) wood, or made of stone.
Unlike temples, Shinto shrines are literally everywhere in Japan. Pretty much every Japanese neighborhood has a shrine.
Some are tiny, literally a corner altar and small torii tucked away on the property of an office building, shopping arcade or other busy area with a lot of foot traffic.
Other shrines are grand, such as the Ise Shrine in Mie prefecture; Atsuta Shrine in Nagoya; or Izumo Taisha shrine in Shimans prefecture; all of these are major shrines in Shinto spirituality and well worth a visit while you’re in Japan.
Some shrines that we frequent include one that’s wedged in between two condo buildings, a restaurant row and a small park; one that’s next to the entrance to IKEA; and one main city shrine (Ikuta Shrine in Kobe) that’s been around for 1200 years. Yup, that’s not uncommon with shrines in Japan.
Now, what’s left of the history tends to be a tree trunk or, if fortunate, maybe an old living tree that’s been around for several centuries. The main structures of Shinto shrines in Japan, including the altar and the torii gates, are replaced generationally. This reflects the Japanese spiritual and psychological attitudes that what bonds us on earth is temporary, but what links us to the past is eternal.
Like I said earlier, you’re going to visit a fair amount of shrines and temples in Japan.
Now that you know the difference between the two, let’s give a little rundown of some of the major temples and shrines in Japan that are common on many travel itineraries here. Of course, we encourage you to visit some of the smaller, local shrines on your Japan travels as well. But these are some highlights to start with.
Major Temples & Shrines to Visit in Japan
Whether you're traveling in Japan for a brief stop or an extended stay, you’ll likely be experiencing at least a few magnificent temples and shrines.
Here are some of the most iconic and historically significant sites that warrant a spot on your Japan travel itinerary.
Senso-ji Temple in Asakusa, Tokyo
Located in Asakusa, Senso-ji is Tokyo’s oldest temple, and it draws millions of visitors every year.
Its massive Thunder Gate (Kaminarimon), with the iconic giant red lantern, sets the tone for a visit to a major attraction of Tokyo. Walking down Nakamise Street, a shopping avenue leading to the temple that’s admittedly gotten a bit touristy over the years, you’ll find Japanese snacks, souvenirs and street food.
Japan Travel Pro(s) Tip: Senso-ji is maybe at its nicest at night (or at the “blue hour” just after sunset & just before sunrise) when the temple buildings are illuminated, creating a memorable atmosphere. Visit early in the morning or after dark to avoid the crowds and enjoy a nice stroll around the temple grounds (the main hall has varying hours, but the grounds are generally open 24/7).
Nearby Attractions: Asakusa and this part of Tokyo have plenty going on, including cruises down the Sumida River, as well as nearby Tokyo Skytree. It’s a pretty modern city, Tokyo, but it’s got some history too, of course.
Meiji Jingu / Meiji Shrine (Tokyo)
Meiji Shrine, nestled in a 70-hectare forest in the heart of Tokyo’s Shibuya district, is an urban oasis. This Shinto shrine, dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken, is a favorite spot for traditional weddings. The long, tree-lined paths leading to the shrine, as well as the massive torii gates, create a tranquil and meditative atmosphere.
Japan Travel Pro(s) Tip: It’s long been popular to combine a visit to Meiji Shrine with a stroll through nearby Yoyogi Park or Harajuku’s Takeshita Street, offering a stark contrast between nature and vibrant youth culture – though both have lost their luster over the years and are more touristy than anything nowadays. Meiji Jingu is also conveniently located near the popular districts of Shinjuku and Shibuya – a good walk is from Meiji Shrine through Omotesando, Minami-Aoyama and down the hill to Shibuya.
Seasonal Highlight: Visit during the New Year (Hatsumode) for an unforgettable cultural experience when millions of people come to pray for good fortune in the year ahead.
Zojo-ji Temple (Tokyo)
A historical gem, Zojo-ji is the family temple of the Tokugawa shogunate. Located at the base of Tokyo Tower. Zojo-ji’s sprawling grounds and ancient structures stand in contrast to the (sort of) modern tower rising behind it. This Tokyo temple also houses a mausoleum for several of the Tokugawa family members, adding to its historical importance.
Japan Travel Pro(s) Tip: For a memorable view, visit Zojo-ji during cherry blossom season, when the grounds are blanketed in pink blooms with Tokyo Tower in the background.
Nearby Attractions: Combine a visit with a trip up Tokyo Tower for panoramic views of the city or explore nearby Shiba Park.
Kiyomizu-dera (Kyoto)
One of the most celebrated temples in Japan, Kiyomizu-dera offers great views of Kyoto from its wooden terrace, which juts out over a hillside. This UNESCO World Heritage site is particularly famous during the cherry blossom and autumn foliage seasons of Japan, when the entire temple complex is awash in colors. The temple is also home to Otowa Waterfall, where visitors can drink from streams believed to bestow health, longevity and success.
Japan Travel Pro(s) Tip: Visit Kiyomizu-dera in the late afternoon to catch the sunset over Kyoto, and then stay for the evening illuminations if you're visiting in spring or autumn.
Nearby Attractions: Wander through the nearby historic streets of Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka for a glimpse of traditional Kyoto, with teahouses and shops selling artisanal goods. Is it super touristy around here? Sure. But sometimes we all have to do these things, don’t we?! Also near Kiyomizu-dera and the Ninenzaka/Sannenzaka area is the Yasaka Pagoda (aka Hokan-ji, the famous photo op from multiple angles), Kodai-ji (which has a bamboo grove and a nice evening light-up at certain times of the year, Kennin-ji, Chion-in, and Yasaka Shrine. Yup, it’s a target rich environment of shrines and temples in this part of Kyoto (often referred to as the Gion area; well, some of it is).
Fushimi Inari Taisha (Kyoto)
Fushimi Inari Taisha, located in southern Kyoto, is one of Japan’s most iconic and visually captivating shrines. Known for its thousands of vermilion torii gates, which form a tunnel-like path up the sacred Mount Inari, Fushimi-Inari shrine is dedicated to Inari, the Shinto god of rice and agriculture. The winding paths lead through a mystical forest, dotted with small shrines, stone fox statues and nice viewpoints over Kyoto.
Japan Travel Pro(s) Tip: The hike to the top of Mount Inari takes about 2-3 hours as a full loop, from when you reach the first gate until the time you leave – though you can turn back at any point. The best photo spots are along the lower sections of the trail, especially if you visit early in the morning to avoid the crowds. Fushimi Inari Shrine is open 24/7.
Nearby Attractions: You can combine your visit with a trip to the nearby sake breweries in the Fushimi district, where you can learn about Kyoto’s famous sake production. There are also other shrines and temples in the area, such as Tofukuji, Komyo-In and a loop that features Sennyu-ji among others.
Kinkaku-ji (Kyoto) – aka the Golden Pavilion
The Golden Pavilion (Kinkaku-ji) is one of the most iconic landmarks in Kyoto, and perhaps all of Japan. This Zen Buddhist temple, covered in gold leaf, reflects beautifully in the pond surrounding it. Sound like a photographer's dream? In the right light (such as late afternoon on a sunny day), it can be. Kinkaku-ji gets pretty crowded, and it’s mainly a procession of photo-seeking tourists (both Japanese and international alike) seeking that iconic view. But on a clear day, the gold factor makes this a good stop.
Japan Travel Pro(s) Tip: While you can’t enter the pavilion itself, the best views are from across the pond, so be sure to have your camera ready. Visiting in the early morning or late afternoon provides the best light for photography.
Nearby Attractions: After visiting Kinkaku-ji, you can see the nearby Ryoan-ji Temple (see section below), home to Japan’s most famous Zen rock garden. Hirano Shrine is also in the area, and it’s a good one especially at cherry blossom time; as is Kitano-Tenmangu Shrine. North of this area are Josho-ji and Genko-an temples.
Ryoan-ji (Kyoto)
Famous for its minimalist rock garden, Ryoan-ji is a good spot to contemplate and reflect. The garden consists of 15 carefully placed rocks surrounded by meticulously raked white gravel. Almost mysteriously, only 14 rocks are visible from any one viewpoint – legend has it that the 15th rock can only be seen after attaining enlightenment (if you do manage this, be sure to reply in the comments below).
Japan Travel Pro(s) Tip: Early morning is the best time to visit to experience the calm before the crowds arrive.
Nearby Attractions: The temple’s beautiful grounds, including a scenic pond, make it worth taking your time to explore. You can also visit the nearby Ninna-ji Temple, known for its late-blooming cherry blossoms; as well as the aforementioned cluster of shrines and temples from the previous section.
Todai-ji (Nara) – Home of the Big Buddha
Home to the largest bronze Buddha in Japan, Todai-ji is an awe-inspiring sight. Located in Nara, this immense temple is set in the scenic Nara Park, where the famous deer (messengers of the gods, remember?) roam freely. The Daibutsu (Great Buddha) statue, housed in the world’s largest wooden building, draws millions of visitors each year.
Japan Travel Pro(s) Tip: Nara can be visited as a day trip from Kyoto or Osaka. Be sure to feed the deer (with exclusive deer treats purchased in Nara Park), but exercise caution as they can be a little pushy when they know you have food!
Nearby Attractions: Don’t miss Kasuga Taisha, Nara’s famous Shinto shrine, or explore the smaller temples scattered throughout Nara Park (such as Kofuku-ji).
Kasuga Taisha (Nara)
Kasuga Taisha is a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its stone lanterns, which line the pathways leading to the shrine, and the hundreds of bronze lanterns hanging from its eaves. Dedicated to the deity of the Fujiwara clan, one of Japan’s most powerful families, the shrine’s peaceful, forested setting offers a nice atmosphere.
Japan Travel Pro(s) Tip: Visit early in the day to enjoy the shrine’s peaceful surroundings and take a walk through the adjacent primeval forest, which is considered sacred.
Shitennoji (Osaka)
Shitennoji Temple is one of Japan's oldest and most historically significant Buddhist temples, founded in the 6th century by Prince Shotoku, a key figure in the early promotion of Buddhism in Japan. Located in Japan’s “second city” of Osaka (near Abeno Harukas), Shitennoji is known for its traditional architectural layout, which has been preserved and restored over the centuries. The temple complex features a beautiful five-story pagoda, a main hall (Kondo) and a treasure house showcasing ancient Buddhist relics. Visitors can explore the peaceful garden and pond, offering a nice escape from the surrounding urban area.
Japan Travel Pro(s) Tip: The temple grounds are free to explore, but there is a small fee to enter the inner area and treasure house, which holds valuable artifacts from Japan’s Buddhist history.
Sumiyoshi Taisha (Osaka)
Sumiyoshi Taisha, also located in Osaka, is one of Japan’s oldest Shinto shrines and the head shrine of over 2,000 Sumiyoshi shrines across Japan. Founded in the 3rd century, Sumiyoshi Taisha is unique for its ancient architectural style called Sumiyoshi-zukuri, which predates the influence of Buddhism on shrine architecture. The shrine is particularly famous for its bright red Sorihashi Bridge, a nicely arched bridge that spans a pond at the entrance, creating a real photo op. But you’re here for calm and reflection, right?
Japan Travel Pro(s) Tip: Visit during New Year's celebrations (Hatsumode) to experience the vibrant energy of Japanese New Year traditions, or during one of the shrine’s annual festivals such as Sumiyoshi Matsuri in late July.
Itsukushima Shrine (Miyajima, Hiroshima)
Itsukushima Shrine, situated on the island of Miyajima in Hiroshima Prefecture, is one of Japan’s most iconic and photogenic shrines. Famous for its dramatic "floating" torii gate, which appears to rise from the sea during high tide, the shrine itself is built on stilts over the water. Itsukushima Shrine is a UNESCO World Heritage site, revered for its beauty and spiritual significance. The surrounding natural beauty, with forested hills and scenic views, makes it a popular destination for travelers seeking both spiritual and scenic experiences.
Japan Travel Pro(s) Tip: For the best views of the floating torii gate, plan your visit during high tide. However, visiting during low tide allows you to walk out to the gate and see it up close. Stay the night at a hotel or ryokan nearby, and see Itsukushima at different light, different tide heights and different crowd levels.
Nikko Toshogu Shrine (Nikko)
Nikko Toshogu Shrine is an ornate Shinto shrine in the mountains of Nikko, Tochigi Prefecture. It serves as the mausoleum for Tokugawa Ieyasu, the founder of the Tokugawa Shogunate, which ruled Japan for over 250 years. The shrine is famous for its intricate wood carvings, including the famous "Sleeping Cat" and the "Three Wise Monkeys" (you know these guys, they represent "see no evil, hear no evil, speak no evil”!). Lavishly decorated with gold leaf and colorful details, Toshogu Shrine is one of Japan’s most important cultural heritage sites and a UNESCO World Heritage site. The surrounding forests of Nikko add to the shrine’s mystical atmosphere.
Japan Travel Pro(s) Tip: Nikko is accessible from Tokyo as a day trip, but look at staying overnight to fully explore the other temples, shrines and natural beauty of the area, including nearby waterfalls and onsen hot springs.
Kotoku-in (Kamakura)
Kotoku-in, located in Kamakura, is home to one of Japan’s most famous and recognizable landmarks: the Great Buddha (Daibutsu). This massive bronze statue of Buddha Amida stands over 13 meters tall and dates back to the 13th century. Originally housed in a large temple hall, the statue has remained outdoors for centuries after the building was destroyed by a tsunami in the 15th century. The surroundings of Kotoku-in make it a peaceful place for reflection.
Japan Travel Pro(s) Tip: Combine your visit to Kotoku-in with a walk along the nearby Kamakura Daibutsu Hiking Trail, which offers scenic views of the surrounding area and leads to other historical sites in Kamakura. Kamakura can be visited on the same day trip from Tokyo along with Enoshima and/or Yokohama.
Koyasan (Wakayama)
Koyasan is a sacred Buddhist site and the heart of Shingon Buddhism, located on a remote mountaintop in Wakayama Prefecture. Established by the monk Kobo Daishi (Kukai) in the 9th century, Koyasan is home to over 100 temples, many of which offer shukubo (temple lodging), allowing visitors to experience the traditional Buddhist lifestyle, including vegetarian meals and participation in morning prayers. Koyasan is a place of deep spiritual significance and tranquility, offering an immersive cultural experience.
Japan Travel Pro(s) Tip: Spend a night at a temple lodging for an authentic experience of Buddhist life. Don’t miss the night-time cemetery tour at Okunoin for a mystical and serene exploration of the sacred grounds.
Practical Tips for Visiting Temples & Shrines in Japan
To make the most of your temple and shrine visits, here are a few practical tips to ensure you show respect while also enjoying your experience:
Purification Rituals: At shrines, use the provided ladles at the temizuya to wash your hands and rinse your mouth. This simple purification ritual prepares you to enter sacred space.
Shoes Off: When entering temple halls, be prepared to remove your shoes. Look for designated areas to place your shoes before stepping inside.
Offerings: It’s common to make small offerings at both temples and shrines. At shrines, toss a coin into the offering box, bow twice, clap twice, and bow once more while making your prayer.
Photographs: Always check for signs indicating if photography is allowed. In some sacred spaces, especially inside temple halls, photography may be prohibited.
Dress Respectfully: Although there’s no strict dress code per se, it’s a good idea to dress modestly, especially if you plan to enter temple halls or participate in rituals.
A Brief History of Japan’s Buddhist Temples & Shinto Shrines
The history of temples and shrines in Japan is complex and intertwined. Shinto, as the indigenous religion of Japan, predates the introduction of Buddhism. However, for much of Japanese history, Shinto and Buddhism coexisted and often blended in a system called shinbutsu-shugo.
Buddhism arrived in Japan in the 6th century and quickly gained favor among the elite. Many grand temples were built during the Nara (710-794) and Heian (794-1185) periods. The Kamakura period (1185-1333) saw the rise of new Buddhist sects and the construction of Zen temples.
Shinto, meanwhile, continued to be practiced alongside Buddhism. Many shrines were established during the Heian period, and the Grand Shrines of Ise, considered the most sacred Shinto site, have a history dating back to the 3rd century.
The Meiji Restoration of 1868 brought significant changes. The government implemented a policy of separating Shinto and Buddhism (shinbutsu bunri), leading to the destruction of many Buddhist temples and artifacts. Shinto was established as the state religion, a status it held until the end of World War II.
Today, while most Japanese people don't consider themselves exclusively Buddhist or Shinto, both temples and shrines continue to play important roles in daily life and culture.
The Role of Temples & Shrines in Modern Japan
While Japan is often considered a secular society, temples and shrines continue to play significant roles in daily life. Many Japanese people visit shrines for New Year's prayers (hatsumode), to pray for success in exams, or to ask for blessings on important life events.
Temples often serve as community centers, hosting festivals, classes, and other events. They also play a crucial role in funeral rites, as most Japanese funerals follow Buddhist traditions.
Both temples and shrines are also important for preserving traditional arts and crafts. Many sites house important cultural treasures, from ancient statues and paintings to beautiful gardens.
Lesser Known “Hidden Gem” Shrines & Temples in Japan
While the well-known temples and shrines are certainly worth visiting, don't overlook smaller, local sites. These often provide a more intimate and authentic experience. In other words, the hidden gems of Japan!
Look into staying at a temple lodging (shukubo) for a unique opportunity to experience temple life firsthand. You can also eat at some temples in Kyoto and elsewhere; they feature vegetarian or vegan meals, known as Shojin Ryori.
Noteworthy shrines and temples around Japan include (in no particular order though generally west to east; and we’ll update this list sometimes, too):
Nanzo-in, near Fukuoka city with a large reclining Buddha statue
Motonosumi Shrine, with a series of red torii leading down a hillside to the Sea of Japan
Izumo Taisha, Shimane prefecture, one of the most significant shrines in Japan
Kibitsu shrine, Okayama
Ikuta Shrine, Kobe
Osaka Tenmangu (near the Tenjinbashi-suji shopping arcade)
Seiganto-ji, near the Nachi waterfalls in Wakayama
Kumano-Nachi Taisha, near the aforementioned Nachi waterfalls and on the Kumano Kaido trail (as well as Kamimura shrine and Kumano, Hayatama Taisha)
Ise Shrine, maybe the most significant shrine in Japan, in Mie prefecture
Atsuta Shrine, in Nagoya
Kiji-jinja Shrine in Tokyo
Ikegami-Honmon-Ji, in Tokyo
Sazae Temple, in Fukushima prefecture
Risshaku-ji Temple in Yamagata
Chuson-ji, in Iwate
Ho-on-ji, in Morioka
Takayama Inari shrine, in Aomori (a series of red torii near the sea)
Hokkaido Shrine, in Sapporo, the biggest & most popular shrine in Hokkaido
Really, you can’t go wrong wherever you happen to be traveling in Japan.
Just look around – you’re probably near a shrine and/or temple. Or you might just stumble into one.
Whether you’re in Kyoto, Osaka or Tokyo, the “Golden Route” of Japan travel (admittedly some of the best places to visit in Japan) which feature literally thousands of shrines and temples, or in a smaller city or rural area of Japan, there are so many temples and shrines to be explored.
Got a favorite shrine or temple in Japan? Let us know in the comments below.
Until next time, happy travels!
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions About Shrines & Temples in Japan
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Yes, temples and shrines in Japan are open year-round. However, visiting during different seasons can provide unique experiences, like cherry blossoms in spring or colorful foliage in autumn.
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While you’re not required to follow religious practices, it’s important to show respect. Simple acts like bowing slightly or washing your hands at the purification fountain go a long way.
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Many shrines are free to visit, but some temples, especially well-known ones, may charge a small admission fee.
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Morning tends to be less crowded, especially at popular spots. However, some temples and shrines also offer beautiful nighttime illuminations.
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Eating and drinking are generally discouraged in the sacred areas, but some popular sites have designated spots or nearby stalls where you can enjoy local snacks.