Best Temples Spot List

An ancient temple known as an exemplary viewing spot for autumn leaves since the Heian period.

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.

Featuring a wooden statue of a historical Shogun from the Ashikaga period

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.

Where the emperors and nobles enjoyed themselves

A beautiful temple like the Pure Land itself that illustrates the prosperity of the Fujiwara regency during the late Heian Period.

The roads are covered with colorful leaves in autumn

A Tendai sect temple with the magnificent natural monument, Yoryu no Matsu

Famous for the bell that angered Ieyasu

This temple is the daihonzan (head temple) of the Kencho-ji Temple school of the Rinzai sect and ranks first among the Kamakura Gozan (Kamakura's Five Great Zen Temples). It has a number of national treasures, cultural assets, and historical structures. The Sanmon (three gates) are a must-see.

Blessed with knowledge by Monju

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

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

Famous for its connection to Honen and it’s beauty in autumn

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).

Famous for its beautiful cherry blossoms and autumn leaves

An ancient temple supported by common people

A massive triple gate welcomes you to the head temple for the Obaku sect of Zen Buddhism

A thatched hut that stands in lush greenery

Featuring a garden created by Motonobu Kano