Best Architecture around Kansai Spot List

This Buddhist school was established by the Chinese monk Jianzhen

A guardian deity of water with miraculous virtue worshipped since ancient times. The shrine has been worshipped for better luck marriage by countless people through the ages, including nobles.

A temple associated with Heian-era poet Ariwara no Narihara

A Zen temple of the Rinzai School built in the scenic area of Arashimaya in Kyoto. It was built by Takauji Ashikaga in memory of the recently deceased Emperor Go-Daigo.

Featuring a garden created by Motonobu Kano

The head of Japan’s Kumano shrines—famous for matchmaking

A temple founded in Higashiyama by Hideyoshi Toyotomi's wife, Nene, to mourn his passing and pray for his soul. The nighttime illuminations in spring, summer and fall are beautiful to see.

Flowers blossom throughout the seasons at this temple, also known as “The Flower Temple”

Autumn colors light up the moss garden in this temple's garden of enlightenment

Dresses available for commemorative photos

Enshrines Japan's top Shinto deity

Featuring a wooden statue of a historical Shogun from the Ashikaga period

Famous for its early blossoming cherry trees, which signify the coming of spring

A thatched hut that stands in lush greenery

A famous location for autumn leaves, connected to Kukai (Kobo-daishi)

The first of 33 temples on the Saigoku Kannon Pilgrimage, Seiganto-ji is an ever-popular destination for worshipers

Tadao Ando designed this temple's main hall

Enjoy the burning red foliage in autumn and the cherry blossoms and rhododendrons in spring

Famous for its beautiful cherry blossoms and autumn leaves

One of Kyoto's most renowned temples, located on the side of Mt. Otowa in the Higishiyama Range. It has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site.