One of the main sights to see in Japan are their many temples and shrines. In our article will look at the most popular temples for you to visit during your trip to Japan.

Japan is known for its natural beauty, historic and interesting culture, and its beautiful architecture. One popular kind of sightseeing is to travel around the country and visit the most popular temples. They all have their architectural designs and styles about them. Each one has a storied past and gives visitors a taste of traditional Japanese culture. With so many temples in Japan, it is difficult to find the ones who will leave the best impression. We will look at some of the best places to visit while traveling through Japan.

Kiyomizu-Dera Temple

This is one of the most well-known temples in Japan. Built-in Kyoto in 780, it has become the most popular temple to visit in Japan. It sees thousands of visitors daily and is most known for its large stage that juts from the side of the main hall. Visitors can experience the natural beauty of the Otowa Waterfall and all of the historic architecture. There are multiple shrines and statues scattered around the grounds, and each holds a special meaning for old popular monks or spirits. Photographers will find many spots that allow for beautiful scenic photographs, and they are allowed in almost every area of the temple grounds. It is open all year to the public and does not require any appointments, just purchase a ticket at the front gates and you can experience one of the best temples in Japan.

Kinkakuji Temple

Kinkakuji is located in Kyoto, and as the name translates, it is colored in gold. They use a style of gold leaf to achieve the glimmering spectacle. It was first built in 1408 and suffered many fire incidents during its time. It was rebuilt the same way each time, and is meant to symbolize wealth the economic culture of the area. You cannot enter the pavilion area but you can view the inside of the building easily from afar. The other big feature is the way the golden building in places near a pong that reflects the golden light of the walls. The garden is open to visitors and allows for viewing parties. It is a definite must-see for anyone who is visiting Japan.

Senso-Ji Temple

This temple is located in Asakusa, in Tokyo, and is one of the best temples to visit in Tokyo. It was built 628 and is one of Japans oldest temples. Before entering the temple, visitors will walk through Kaminarimon, which is a large shopping district. It houses many shops and food places that everyone can visit and purchase souvenirs and traditional Japanese foods. It is truly a sight to behold and visitors can spend hours walking the streets and shopping. The temple gates are a famous spot for photographers and have a large gate with a large lantern that visitors must walk under to enter the temple. The temple grounds are spacious and can hold a large number of people at one time. The main hall is used mostly for prayers and only allow people into the deeper areas at special events. Visitors can pray and have their fortune told at the main grounds. It is near Tokyo Sky Tree and getting other popular parts of Tokyo from the station is easy as well.

Hokokuji Temple

This temple is located in Kamakura and is known for its giant bamboo forests that surround the temple. It is a beautiful area that visitors can enjoy any time of the year. There are five main buildings to visit and a tea-drinking spot that is located perfectly at the edge of the forest. You can enjoy traditional style green tea and matcha tea. Walking through the bamboo forest trail makes it one of the most memorable temples in Japan. Visitors will need to travel by bus to get to the temple grounds, but they will be rewarded with one of the best sights in all of Japan.

Todai-Ji Temple

Constructed in 752, this temple will go on to hold great historical significance. It was the largest wooden hall in the world for many years and showcases large picturesque buddha statues. It is near the deer park and sees many deer visiting the area. The deer are raised around humans and are not afraid to approach visitors in hopes of getting some shika sembei. The deer know how to bow for their food as well, so they are popular guests of the area. There are many small halls and museums that people can visit.

Sanjusangendo Temple

This temple is located in Kyoto and houses the 1001 tori gates. It is one of the most well-known images of Japan. It is visited by thousands of people every year and has been featured in many travel brochures. It was built in 1164 and has been burned down a few times throughout its history. The meaning of the gates is to help fight suffering and observe the people.

More temples can be visited in the country and you can find more that may interest you. You can use travel sites and other agencies that have complete guided tours that will show you the best temples in Japan. Make sure to take in all of the great history and culture of the island nation.