Best Temples Spot List

A little-known temple hidden deep in the mountains

The head temple of the Rinzai sect, known as the highest-ranked Zen temple in Japan.

The Naritasan Shinshoji Temple has attracted many worshipers for more than 1,000 years. There are many assets designated as an Important Cultural Properties on its vast temple grounds.

Famous for its majestic, moss-covered garden

Several hundred structures are scattered across Mt. Hiei

This imposing temple serves as a center for Shugendo asceticism

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.

A temple with strings of ”monkey charms”

The Matsuchiyama Shoden Honryu-in Temple close to Senso-ji Temple, is recognized as a ”power spot” by the common people. On this spot they pray for the material benefits in this world. With Y-shaped daikon radishes and kinchaku (Japanese traditional style pouch) people pray for finding a suitable marriage partner and for matrimonial happiness.

Where the emperors and nobles enjoyed themselves

Twin Dragons created during the Heisei period watch over Kyoto’s oldest Zen temple

This temple guesthouse is home to national treasures

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

A temple famous for its Bone Buddhas

A thatched hut that stands in lush greenery

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

Where the successful Hideyoshi Toyotomi worshipped the three-faced Daikokuten

An ancient temple supported by common people

Famous for the bell that angered Ieyasu

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