Best Architecture Spot List

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.

This Buddhist school was established by the Chinese monk Jianzhen

The shrine to the north of the main hall of Kiyomizu-dera Temple, whose spirit is worshipped as a deity of marriage. A pair of guardian stones in the grounds known as ”Koi uranai-no-Ishi” dates back to the Jomon period.

A mortuary temple for the imperial household

The oldest shrine in Kyoto

The inner sanctuary is the oldest example of Shinto architecture in Japan

A temple associated with Heian-era poet Ariwara no Narihara

The head temple of the Jodo sect, founded at the place where Honen Shonin passed away. The magnificent monastery was built under the wing of the Tokugawa family.

The Nikko Tamozawa Imperial Villa is one of the largest of all wooden imperial villas to be erected during the Meiji Era. Today, guests can tour the inside of the villa as well as its yard.

A 300-m-high, one of Japan's highest buildings, Abeno Harukas is a landmark of Oasaka that features a department store, an art museum and a hotel.

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

Himeji’s famous mountain-top temple

The main temple of the Shingon Sect of the Daigo School of Buddhism that stretches across Mt. Daigo. Famous for its cherry blossoms, Hideyoshi Toyotomi used to hold spring parties here to enjoy the trees when they are in bloom.

Encounter a god of matchmaking in a busy district

Yamate 234 Ban-Kan, or the Yamate #234 Residence, is a Western-style mansion that served as an apartment building for foreign residents. The panel exhibits displayed on the first floor tell the history of the building.

Symbolizing the sacred mountain Haguro

Hakone Sekisho is an impressive reproduction of an Edo Period sekisho on the banks of Lake Ashi. It is as if you've slipped back in time to the Edo Period.

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.

The roads are covered with colorful leaves in autumn

The abbot’s chambers are surrounded by four gardens