
In Japan, the word “temple” refers to a Buddhist site. Buddhism was introduced to Japan around the middle of the 6th century and is still an inherent part of Japanese day to day life, most visible in customs and traditions.
What are Temples?

Temples are institutions where Buddhist rites and ceremonies are performed, which were introduced from India and China. Buddhist monks live on the premises and a statue in the image of Buddha is the principle object of worship.
Visiting a Temple

Temples have different features, depending on which sect it is a part of. However, different sects are permitted to visit other temples. For the sake of open-mindedness, as long as your aim is to understand the teachings of Buddha, you are allowed to visit any temple you wish.
The Main Gate of a Buddhist Temple

The main gate is the structure at the entrance of a temple. Hold your hands together to greet Buddha and proceed.
The Main Temple Building

The main building is where the statue of Buddha is enshrined. Place an offering of money into the box with the sign marked “浄財” (jozai, offerings), then announce your visit by pulling the rope to sound the temple gong called waniguchi placed in front of the main building. The act of donating money is considered a type of training to emancipate yourself from your worldly desires. After sounding the temple gong, bow once and pray silently by pressing your hands together in front of your chest.
The Five-Story Pagoda

Some temples have a three-story pagoda. It is an important building in a Buddhist facility which holds the Buddha’s historical relics (bones after cremation). The five-story pagoda of Horyu-ji Temple was built around the year 680, making it the oldest wooden construction in the world.
Annual Temple Festivals

A variety of events are held throughout the year at temples all around Japan. One of them is hatsumode, a ritual about praying for happiness and good fortune form New Year’s Eve to New Year’s Day. On the 3rd of February, another event called setsubun takes place, during which soybeans are thrown to symbolically drive out evil and bring happiness and health to one’s home. Hinamatsuri, the Girls’ or Doll Festival, as well as Children’s Day follow after, both celebrating children, and there is also the summer festival Shichigosan, which celebrates children the ages of three, five, and seven. All of these festivals have roots in Buddhism.
- Category
*Prices and options mentioned are subject to change.
*Unless stated otherwise, all prices include tax.
Popular Tours & Activitiess
Recommended places for you
-
Kanzenkoshitsuyakinikutabehodai Gyugyu Paradise Sannomiya
Yakiniku
Kobe, Sannomiya, Kitano
-
Goods
Yoshida Gennojo-Roho Kyoto Buddhist Altars
Gift Shops
Nijo Castle, Kyoto Imperial Palace
-
Jukuseiniku-to Namamottsuarera Nikubaru Italian Nikutaria Sannomiya
Izakaya
Kobe, Sannomiya, Kitano
-
Kambei Sannomiyahonten
Yakiniku
Kobe, Sannomiya, Kitano
-
Appealing
Rukku and Uohei
Izakaya
Sapporo / Chitose
-
ISHIDAYA Hanare
Yakiniku
Kobe, Sannomiya, Kitano
-
Akihabara Electronics: 7 Essential Stores in Tokyo for Tax-Free Deals & Unique Finds
by: Ran Tanaka
-
Ad
A Tokyo Souvenir with Soul: The Handcrafted Leather of Bunkoya Oozeki
-
10 Shinjuku Hotels Balancing Cost Performance and Comfort: Perfect for Both Business and Tourism
by: Flurina YOC
-
Autumn in Japan 2025: Fall Foliage Forecast & Where to Enjoy the Colorful Leaves (+Tour Info)
-
The Ultimate Guide to Mitsui Outlet Parks in Japan (2025 Edition) - Popular Tax-Free Malls & Coupon Info for Travelers
by: Guest Contributor
-
Where to Buy Electronics in Ikebukuro: 6 Tax-Free Shops for Tourists in Tokyo
by: Ran Tanaka
-
Dakigaeri Gorge: Stroll Beside Aqua-Blue Streams and Brilliant Autumn Leaves in Akita
by: Guest Contributor
-
Inside Kyoto's Spectacular Sanjusangen-do Temple with 1,000 Gold Statues
-
10 Most Popular Temples in Kyoto
-
Secrets to Shopping in Japan: Guide to Annual Sales in Japan & Where to Shop
by: Miyu Shimada
-
Visiting Nara's Hasedera Temple: This 'Temple of Flowers' Is Home to Stunning Statues!
-
Exploring the Timeless Beauty and Spiritual Significance of Nara's Popular Temples
- #best sushi japan
- #what to do in odaiba
- #what to bring to japan
- #new years in tokyo
- #best ramen japan
- #what to buy in ameyoko
- #japanese nail trends
- #things to do japan
- #onsen tattoo friendly tokyo
- #daiso
- #best coffee japan
- #best japanese soft drinks
- #best yakiniku japan
- #japanese fashion culture
- #japanese convenience store snacks