Best Temples Spot List

A Nichiren Buddhist temple housing Kishimojin (Hariti), the deity of easy childbirth. Steeped in nature, Kishimojin-do has been a popular site for viewing cherry blossoms since the Edo period (1603-1868).

Where the emperors and nobles enjoyed themselves

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

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

Famous for its beautiful cherry blossoms and autumn leaves

A temple that has existed since the Warring States period and is connected to Nobunaga

The head temple of the Shingon Sect's Omuro School. Holding a long association with the Imperial Household, the temple is also well known for its late-blooming cherry trees called Omuro-zakura.

Where the successful Hideyoshi Toyotomi worshipped the three-faced Daikokuten

Beloved Buddha artifacts inside the school of Heijo Palace

Nara's symbol, the world's largest bronze statue of Rushana Daibutsu is seated in the Great Buddha Hall located in the vast grounds. The temple has been designated as a World Heritage site.

A mortuary temple for the imperial household

The head temple of the Rinzai sect's Tofuku-ji School, which has Japan's largest monastery and oldest San-mon gate. It is known as one of Kyoto's best places to view autumn leaves.

Fallen leaves on the road to the temple invite you to this high-status monzeki temple

The main training center for Shingon Esoteric Buddhism with its iconic five-story pagoda, the key landmark of Kyoto's scenery. The temple is known as ”Daishi's temple.”

A spiritual area surrounding Kobo Daishi’s mausoleum

A temple with strings of ”monkey charms”

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.

Featuring a garden created by Motonobu Kano

Worshipers are charmed by the many flowers and large Kannon statue

The roads are covered with colorful leaves in autumn