Best Architecture Spot List

Having many children themselves, rabbits symbolize safe child-rearing here

An elegant temple with a Japanese rock garden and wonderful autumn foliage

Famous for its beautiful cherry blossoms and autumn leaves

The main shrine hall is a national treasure with droves of people lining up for the New Year’s shrine visit at “Sumiyossan”

The symbol of Osaka and loved by people as ”Mr. Taiko's castle,” the Main Tower has been designated as a registered tangible cultural property of Japan.

Two different windows overlooking a garden

It is the palace where the generations of Emperors and Empresses of Japan have lived starting in the Meiji era (1868-1912) to this day. You can visit the palace site as long as you obtain prior permission.

A shrine for a popular matchmaking deity and associated with the puppet play “Sonezaki Shinju”

This Buddhist school was established by the Chinese monk Jianzhen

A historical shrine with a solemn atmosphere built in Gongen-zukuri (style of Shinto architecture in which the main hall and worship hall share one roof). It is designated as National Important Cultural Property. Late April is the best period to see the Azaleas on the premises.

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.

Hie-jinja Shrine has a history of more than 600 years. The Sanno Festival, one of the three biggest Japanese festivals, is held in June.

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

Himeji’s famous mountain-top temple

A little-known temple hidden deep in the mountains

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

Worshipers are charmed by the many flowers and large Kannon statue

This imposing temple serves as a center for Shugendo asceticism

Zojo-ji is one of the seven Daihonzan (head temples) of Jodo-shu Buddhism and contains many designated Cultural Properties. It is also where the souls of the Tokugawa clan are mourned.

A shrine to the south of the imperial palace for gods who offer directional protection