
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.
Recommended places for you
-
Goods
Yoshida Gennojo-Roho Kyoto Buddhist Altars
Gift Shops
Nijo Castle, Kyoto Imperial Palace
-
Kambei Sannomiyahonten
Yakiniku
Kobe, Sannomiya, Kitano
-
ISHIDAYA Hanare
Yakiniku
Kobe, Sannomiya, Kitano
-
Kanzenkoshitsuyakinikutabehodai Gyugyu Paradise Sannomiya
Yakiniku
Kobe, Sannomiya, Kitano
-
Appealing
Rukku and Uohei
Izakaya
Sapporo / Chitose
-
Jukuseiniku-to Namamottsuarera Nikubaru Italian Nikutaria Sannomiya
Izakaya
Kobe, Sannomiya, Kitano
-
Ad
Enjoy Country Farm Tokyo German Village: Flower Fields, Food, and Family Fun in Chiba Prefecture
-
Grand Prince Hotel Takanawa: Embrace Japanese Culture and Beauty of the Seasons in a Vast Japanese Garden
by: Satochin
-
2025 Japan Cherry Blossom Report: Tokyo & Osaka At Peak Bloom
-
Sakura Season in Tokyo, Aussie Style: Hanami at bills Brings Spring to Your Plate
by: Timothy Sullivan
-
Affordable & Effective! 5 Must-Have DAISO Cleaning Goods Recommended by a Japanese Mom
-
The Prince Sakura Tower Tokyo: Enjoy Stunning Views and a Garden in Full Bloom
by: Satochin
-
Yamadera Temple (Yamagata): Hiking to Japan's Mystical Mountain Sanctuary
-
Numazuko Kaisho in Ueno: Good Quality, All-You-Can-Eat Seafood for Just US$12!?
-
Tokyo Tsukiji|Tsukiji Area Map & Sightseeing Information
-
Visiting Osaka's Iconic Tsutenkaku Tower: Fun Activities & Area Guide
-
10 Most Popular Temples in Nara
-
Sendai Daikannon Statue: Explore One of the World's Tallest Statues
- #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