Best Temples Spot List

The oldest Buddhist temple in Tokyo best known by the Kaminarimon Gate is one of the must-visit places in Tokyo. On Nakamise Street, you can enjoy souvenir shopping and snack-joint hopping.

Shingon Sect Temple in Setagaya, Tokyo. Tamagawa 88 Sacred Sites. Kanto Sacred Site consisting of temples for 33 Bokefuji Kannon Pilgrimage.

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

Famous for the bell that angered Ieyasu

The temple is the oldest one in Kamakura, founded by a high priest called Gyoki. Its principal image of worship is the three figures of eleven-faced Kan'non, and the temple ground is covered with various flowers throughout the seasons.

This temple is one of the Three Mountains of the Kanto region for the Chisan sect of Shingon Buddhism and is well-known as a temple to ward off evil. Enjoy the shops in the surrounding streets after attending a Goma Rite (a ceremony in which Goma wood is burned in a fireplace on the Goma platform).

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

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.

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

Magnificent views await at the end of the 1,015-step climb

This is a temple erected at the wish of Keishoin, the real mother of Shogun Tsunayoshi Tokugawa. The main hall, remaining in its original state from the Genroku period, has been designated as a National Important Cultural Property.

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