The Best Religious Sites in Japan

Originally built as 15th-century shogun Ashikaga Yoshimasa's retirement villa, Ginkakuji Temple stands as a testament to developing Higashiya

Completed in 645 CE, Senso-ji Temple holds the status of being the oldest temple in Tokyo. The temple grounds contain an independent Buddhist

With a history spanning over five centuries, Ryoanji Temple boasts probably the nation's most iconic rock garden. Founded in 1450, the temple

Pay a visit to the World Heritage Site of Nikko Tosho-gu, a Shinto temple that contains the burial place of Tokugawa Iyeasu, the founder of t

A World Heritage Site dating back to 728 CE, Todai-ji Temple has served as a central Buddhist temple complex known for its administrative con

A visit to the sacred complex of Ise Grand Shrine allows you to discover a series of Shinto sacred sites centered on two main temples. The 12

Admire the monumental statue of Kōtoku-in, one of the largest Buddha figures in Japan. The towering bronze statue dates back to the 13th cent

Known for its eleven-headed statue of a bodhisattva associated with mercy, Hase-dera Temple probably dates back to the 8th century CE. Though

Dedicated to the Shinto god of learning Tenjin, Dazaifu Tenman-gu traces its origins back to the year 905. Wander the complex and admire the

Likely the oldest site of its kind in the country, Izumo Taisha Shrine also represents as one of the most important places of worship in the