Best Temples around Kansai Spot List

A thatched hut that stands in lush greenery

A temple that has long protected Arima Onsen

A spiritual area surrounding Kobo Daishi’s mausoleum

This large temple complex boasts a magnificent ancient hall

Several hundred structures are scattered across Mt. Hiei

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

A temple built upon the request of Emperor Tenmu during the Hakuho Period. Reconstructed in recent years, the temple structures showcase beautiful, vibrant colors.

The nation’s head Koyasan Shingon-shu temple

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

Worshipers are charmed by the many flowers and large Kannon statue

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.

Established by Emperor Shirakawa during the Heian Period, the temple's name derives from the ingo (posthumous Buddhist name) of Yoshiakira Ashikaga, the second shogun of the Muromachi bakufu (Japanese feudal government headed by a shogun). While exploring the precinct, you'll find the graves of Yoshiakira and Masatsura Kusunoki, the busho (military commander) of Nancho (Southern Court) located next to each other. Masatsura was much respected by Yoshiakira even though he was an enemy general. During autumn, the maple leaves turn a striking red (visitors are not allowed to bring in a tripod stand or a unipod).

A vault of many national cultural artifacts from the Nara period

Legend has it that the temple buildings were built by Emperor Shomu. In addition to the exquisite Kamakura-Period-style Romon Gate (National Treasure) facing the old road, there is a Kamakura-Period-style thirteen-story pagoda (Important Cultural Property) towering at the center of the temple grounds. The temple is also famous for its cosmos flowers.

A tea ceremony sanctuary that started as a gathering of artists

This famous shrine blossoms in full glory from season to season with its flowers

One of Japan's famous ancient temples, quietly nestled in Ikaruga

See “Thunder of the Dragon” during special viewings

See the brave figures of twelve protective deities

The head temple of Jodo Shinshu Hongan-ji School and affectionately referred to as ”Onishi-san” in the Shichijo Horikawa district.