Best Architecture around Kansai Spot List

One of the Monzeki temples of the Tendai sect that enshrines the National Treasure Amida Sanzon (Amida Triad) statue in eternal tranquility.

The main training center for Shingon Esoteric Buddhism with its iconic five-story pagoda, the key landmark of Kyoto's scenery. The temple is known as ”Daishi's temple.”

Where the emperors and nobles enjoyed themselves

Boasts an amazing stage modeled after a lion mask

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.

Occasionally open seasonally for cherry blossom, azalea, and fall leaves viewing

A castle that is deeply rooted in the history of the Tokugawa Clan and became an important historic site during the Meiji Restoration when power was returned to Japan's Imperial Family.

The oldest shrine in Kyoto

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.

A temple that has long protected Arima Onsen

The graceful standing statue of Gigeiten is a must-see attraction

A little-known temple hidden deep in the mountains

Famous for the bell that angered Ieyasu

A beautiful castle otherwise known as Shirasagi-jo Castle. It was Japan's first UNESCO World Heritage site.

The historic, symbolic spot of Namba. Always popular with tourists

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.

A crimson tower glistening in the ocean and sky

The object of worship here is Amida Nyorai and the statue of Prince Shotoku in the main hall is an important cultural property

Pray for good health and matchmaking at this shrine built for subduing an epidemic

The head temple of the Shingon Sect's Omuro School. Holding a long association with the Imperial Household, the temple is also well known for its late-blooming cherry trees called Omuro-zakura.