Japan’s temples range from golden pavilions to moss gardens to mountaintop retreats. If you only visit a few, make them count. Here’s a guide to the most beautiful and meaningful temples to see.
Kyoto’s greatest hits
- Kinkaku-ji — the shimmering Golden Pavilion.
- Kiyomizu-dera — the grand hillside temple with city views.
- Ryoan-ji — the world’s most famous Zen rock garden; see our gardens guide.
- More in our Kyoto guide.
Beyond Kyoto
- Senso-ji (Tokyo) — the capital’s oldest temple; see our Asakusa guide.
- Todai-ji (Nara) — home to a giant bronze Buddha; see our Nara guide.
- Koyasan’s Okunoin — a mystical mountaintop temple town; see our Koyasan guide.
- Byodo-in (Uji) — the Phoenix Hall pictured on the 10-yen coin.
Temple vs shrine?
Temples are Buddhist; shrines are Shinto — and they’re visited differently. Read our shrines vs temples guide so you know the etiquette.
How to enjoy temples
- Go early for calm and soft light; the famous ones fill up fast.
- Collect goshuin (calligraphy stamps) in a special book — a lovely keepsake.
- Dress modestly and keep quiet; remove shoes where indicated. See our etiquette guide.
- Consider a temple stay (shukubo) for the full experience.
Fit temple-hopping into a 7-day itinerary.