Kiyomizu-dera Temple (Kyoto)
Located on a hillside overlooking a valley and the city itself, Kiyomizu-dera is the most visited temple in Kyoto. It was built in honor of Kannon, the goddess of mercy. Special events are often held here, including occasional pink nighttime illumination of the temple for breast cancer awareness, traditional ceremonies, and various stage productions.
Kinkakuji Temple (Kyoto)
Kinkakuji was originally built in 1397 as the home of a shogun, or military chief. The building was covered entirely in gold leaf, giving it the title of the Golden Pavilion. Its gardens are meant to represent an earthly paradise.
Senso-ji Temple (Tokyo)
Legend has it that two brothers repeatedly tried to return a statue of the goddess Kannon to the Sumida River. Each time, the statue had returned by the next day. Senso-ji Temple was built in that location in honor of the goddess. The temple is at its most beautiful in the evening when nighttime illumination highlights its intricate architecture.
Hokokuji Temple (Kamakura)
Also called the Takedera Temple, the temple grounds house bamboo forests, delicate moss covered carvings, and ponds of brightly colored koi. Authentic Japanese matcha served with sweets is available until 3:30 p.m.
Todai-ji Temple (Nara)
The Todai-ji Temple in Nara is the largest wooden building in the world. It also houses an immense statue of Buddha. Attempting to portray the scale of this image, one visitor recalled, “a medium-sized human could fit through one nostril!” Many visitors also enjoy the friendly herds of deer that roam the site.
Sanjusangendo Temple (Kyoto)
Formerly called Rengeoin Temple, this temple is unique for the sheer number of religious statues it contains. The Great Hall houses 1,001 “life-sized” images of the goddess Kannon.
Shitennoji Temple (Osaka)
One of Japan’s oldest temples, Shitennoji was built more than 1,400 years ago. The temple is famous for its symmetrical architectural style. Subsequent temples built in this style are said to have the “Shitennoji style temple layout.”