Best Temples around Kansai Spot List

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

Famous for the bell that angered Ieyasu

A spiritual area surrounding Kobo Daishi’s mausoleum

Known for “the evening bell of Mii-dera”, one of the Eight Views of Omi

This imposing temple serves as a center for Shugendo asceticism

Where the emperors and nobles enjoyed themselves

Shitenno-ji Temple is the oldest state-built Buddhist temple in Japan, established in 593 by Prince Shotoku. The architectural structures seen today are faithful reproductions of the temple's original appearance.

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.

Ono no Komachi concealed herself here amongst the plum blossoms

A majestic temple and garden with beautiful Arashiyama in the background

Several hundred structures are scattered across Mt. Hiei

Don't miss seeing the resting place for Shinsengumi members, Mibu-zuka

A Zen temple of the Rinzai Sect of Buddhism, world famous for its traditional rock garden.

A temple of the Nichiren sect on Mt. Ogura in Sagano. It is well-known for ”Hyakunin Isshu” (a collection of 100 poems by 100 different poets). In autumn, the nearby mountains awash with brilliant red leaves.

The abbot’s chambers are surrounded by four gardens

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.

A mortuary temple for the imperial household

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

A temple located in the holy mountain of Kurama in Kyoto. Minamoto no Yoshitsune is said to have trained here, and visitors can feel the vibrant energy of nature and the universe.

An ancient temple known as an exemplary viewing spot for autumn leaves since the Heian period.