Kyoto, Japan is home to an astounding 2,000 Japanese temples and shrines. Yes, two-thousand.
While visiting Kyoto Temples was high on our list of things to do, we had no intention – or ambition – to see them all. There is actually more to see in Kyoto!
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We did, however, visit a multitude of beautiful temples, many of which are listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Now we have created a list for you of what we believe are the absolute Best Temples in Kyoto!
Top 10 Kyoto Temples
Our list includes the most beautiful temples in Kyoto that we feel every visitor must see. It is important to note that many temples charge an entry fee, while shrines are free to enter.
Below we have also included a Kyoto Temples Map to help you plan your visit and create your own Kyoto Walking Tour.
#1 Rengeoin Sanjusangendo Temple
Rengeoin Sanjusangendo is a Kyoto, Japan temple that will take your breath away! It is one of the most famous temples of Kyoto.
Located on the east side of the city, the temple was built in the year 1164 – and rebuilt in 1266 after a fire destroyed the original building.
The wooden temple hall is famous for housing 1,001 statues of Kannon, the Goddess of Mercy. They date to the 12th and 13th centuries and are listed as a National Treasure.
Of the 1,001 statues, 1,000 are life-size versions of Kannon, situated into two sections. Between them at the center of the Kyoto Buddhist temple is an enormous wood-carved, seated statue of the 1000-armed Kannon.
Additionally, there are 28 deities that stand to protect Kannon, as well as the Buddhists who worship Kannon. Two other statues in this Kyoto Temple hall are of Thunder God and Wind God.
Fun Facts: Rengeoin is the official name of the temple, which means Hall of the Lotus King. However, it is more often referred to as Sanjusangendo, which translates to “hall with 33 spaces between the columns.”
The 120-meter-long temple hall, designed in the Wayo architectural style, does in fact have 33 ‘spaces’ between the columns.
#2 Fushimi Inari Shrine, Kyoto
There are many beautiful places to see in Kyoto, but none are as striking as the thousands of red vermilion torii gates that line the paths at Fushimi Inari Shrine.
The massive complex, which sits on Mount Inari just south of the city center, has origins dating to the 8th century. The shrine is dedicated to Inari – the god of rice and patron of business.
The torii gates are offered by devotees, farmers and business owners as a way of ushering their prayers and wishes to the deity.
Foxes are a symbol found throughout the Fushimi Inari complex, as it is believed that foxes act as messengers.
At the base of the hill are the Fushimi Inari Main Gate and Fushimi Inari Main Shrine (built in 1499), but visitors will want to seek out the hillside paths behind the shrine that lead to the top of the mountain.
Hiking the torii-covered path that loops around the top of the mountain, passing restaurants, viewpoints and smaller shrines along the way, is one of the top things to do in Kyoto!
The Fushimi Inari trail is nearly 2.5 miles long and takes about 2 hours to complete.
Fun Fact: Vermilion red is a color used at many Japanese temples, as it is thought to combat evil, but it is used at Fushimi Inari Taisha because it denotes a successful harvest.
The color is attained by mixing mercury and red dirt and has been used as a method of preserving wood for centuries.
#3 Gioji Temple (Moss Temple Kyoto)
Although small and quaint, we think Gioji Temple is one of the must-see temples in Kyoto.
Located in Arashiyama, the thatched roof temple sits in a moss-covered forest that looks like it was plucked from the pages of a fairytale.
While the temple itself is not one of the top Kyoto Attractions, the setting is absolutely charming.
Fun Fact: The mystical tale surrounding the original inhabitants increases the allure of the Gioji Temple. According to the legend, a dancer named Gio was left by a noble suitor when he became attracted to another dancer, named Hotoke Gozen.
After the loss of love, Gio quit dancing and became a nun at the temple…and just one year later, Hotoke Gozen, with her head down, followed in Gio’s footsteps, as she too was left by the nobleman.
#4 Adashino Nenbutsuji Kyoto Buddhist Temple
A trip to Adashino Nenbutsuji Temple can feel slightly unsettling – especially in the context of Kyoto sightseeing. Yet, we think it is astoundingly beautiful.
The Buddhist temple in Kyoto was founded in the year 811 on a hill in Arashiyama and the spacious grounds are occupied by a cemetery.
At the center of the cemetery is a field of 8,000 stone Buddhist statues clustered together in rows. It’s the history of these statues that make Adashino Nenbutsuji an intriguing Kyoto temple to visit.
During the Heian period, when people died without kin or family, their bodies were left abandoned and unburied on the hillside.
Kukai, the founder of Shingon-shu (a Buddhist sect), gathered the bones and built the temple to give honor to the deceased.
Hundreds of years later, a famous monk, Honen, started reciting Buddhist prayers for the dead.
The tombstone statues were arranged together in the early 1900s to give a final resting place for the souls. Although created from a somber past, the stone sculptures are a beautiful sight.
Fun Fact: A ceremony, called Sento Kuyo, takes place on August 23 and 24 of every year to honor the souls. More than 1,000 candles are lit among the 8,000 statues creating a somewhat spooky atmosphere.
#5 Kinkakuji Temple (Golden Temple Kyoto)
Perhaps the most famous temple in Kyoto is Kinkakuji, the Golden Temple. Incredibly picturesque, it is actually covered in gold leaf and sits on a lake creating beautiful reflections.
Visiting the temple grounds (as the Kyoto Zen temple is officially off limits) can feel slightly overwhelming with the hordes of fellow guests that are routed into the small viewing area.
However, there are more Kyoto tourist attractions here. We recommend only lingering for the view and a photo and then taking your time to wander the path through the rest of the gardens.
This famous Kyoto temple is one of the Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto. Somewhat surprisingly, it only dates to 1955.
Built as a villa, the structure was purchased in 1397 by shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu as a retirement home. After his death, his son abided by his will and turned the complex into a Zen temple.
During the Onin War in the mid-1400s, all of the complex buildings – aside from the main pavilion – were burned to the ground.
Then, in 1950, a disturbed monk burned down the Golden Pavilion. The temple was rebuilt in 1955 in a likeness to the original.
Fun Fact: Each floor of Kinkakuji represents a different style of architecture. The ground floor is designed in the Shinden style, a popular plan of palaces during the Heian Period.
The second floor resembles samurai dwellings of the Bukke style and the top floor is built as a Chinese Zen Temple Hall.
#6 Yasaka Shrine (Gion Shrine Kyoto)
Sitting just outside Maruyama Park between the Gion and Higashiyama districts is the most famous shrine in Kyoto: Yasaka Shrine.
The Shinto Shrine, which is also often called Gion Shrine, dates to the year 656 and is one of the top Kyoto, Japan points of interest.
Although there are several structures here, the most appealing is the center stage with giant lanterns hanging from all sides. The complex hosts the annual Gion Matsuri Festival, which takes place in July.
Fun Fact: The Matsuri Festival is based on historical events in the year 869 when Gion Shrine mikoshi (palanquin) walked through the streets to fend off an epidemic.
#7 Go’o Shrine (Pig Shrine Kyoto)
While not necessarily famous, we think Go’o is one of the best shrines in Kyoto to visit simply because it features hundreds of pig statues. It’s not every day that you can visit a shrine chock-a-block with pigs!
Although it is quirky, understanding the history of the temple, which is dedicated to Wake no Kiyomaro, explains the presence of pigs.
Kiyomaro was a trusted advisor to Emperor Kanmu, who is said to have received a divine message that discredited Dokyo, the next-in-line for emperor, from taking over.
On this news, Dokyo exiled Kiyomaro and had the tendons in his legs slashed before his journey out of town.
According to legend, Kiyomaro was saved and protected by 300 wild boars and his wounds magically healed.
He was eventually brought out of exile and continued to serve the emperor – even advising him to relocate to Kyoto. Hence, the temple that is dedicated to Kiyomaro honors the pigs that saved his life.
Fun Fact: Go’o Shrine is one of the top places to visit in Kyoto for people with leg injuries. They go there to pray that they will be cured just as Kiyomaro was.
#8 Higashi Honganji and Nishi Honganji
Both Nishi Honganji and Higashi Honganji are Jodo Shinshu complexes, which is a school of Pure Land Buddhism and the most popularly practiced type of Buddhism in Japan.
Nishi Honganji, which is the recognized headquarters of Jodo Shinshu, was built in 1591. Main features include the Karamon Gate, the Daishido Hall and Goeido Main Hall. Many Buddhist artifacts are also housed within the complex.
Higashi Honganji was built just 11 years after Nishi Honganji in 1602 and is the head temple of Otani – a faction of Jodo Shinshu. The main hall at Higashi Honganji is the largest wooden structure in Kyoto.
Just a few streets away is Shoseien, a Japanese garden that is part of the residence, but is open to the public. It’s popular for the Sōchin-kyo Teahouse and Shinsetsu Bridge.
Fun Facts: These are named for their location; Nishi Honganji is Western Temple, while Higashi Honganji is Eastern Temple. It’s just a 5 minute walk between the two.
#9 Ginkakuji Temple (Silver Temple Kyoto)
Another one of the top temples in Kyoto is Ginkakuji – or Silver Pavilion – which was built in 1482.
The Ginkakuji Temple was modeled after Kinkakuji (Golden Pavilion) and built by shogun Asikaga Yoshimasa, the grandson of shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu, as his retirement villa.
The temple pavilion is closed to the public, but the grounds are open to visitors.
Perhaps not as impressive as Kinkakuji, the grounds of the Ginkakuji Temple of Kyoto are simply lovely. Just like Kinkakuji, the Silver Pavilion sits at the edge of a lake and is surrounded by lush gardens.
The main features are a sand garden (called Sea of Silver Sand), a moss garden and a path that ventures onto the hillside providing incredible views of the entire complex.
Fun Fact: Unlike Kinkakuji, Ginkakuji has never been covered in silver. The nickname is attributed to the imitation of the more revered Golden Pavilion.
#10 Kiyomizu-dera Temple Kyoto
The 1200-year-old Kiyomizudera Temple is a sprawling complex integrated into nature and is one of the most visited temples in Kyoto.
Founded in 778 on the site of the crystal-clear waterfall, most of the buildings here date to the 17th century. The complex is part of the Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto.
Of the numerous buildings at Kiyomizu dera, there are three must-see structures. Hondo, Okuno-in Hall and Otowa Waterfall building.
The Main Hall sits on a cliffside with a protruding balcony over the valley at the height of 42 feet. It has long been popular with tourists – especially during cherry blossom season.
However, it is the Okuno-in Hall, which also has an open balcony, that offers the best views of the complex and Kyoto.
From the Otowa Waterfall building, guests can drink from one of the three streams of pure water in hopes their wishes will be granted.
Fun Fact: At Kiyomizu Kyoto, there is a shrine dedicated to Okuninushi, the god of love and matchmaking.
Two stones sit 60 feet apart and visitors seeking love can close their eyes and attempt to walk from stone to stone; those who successfully complete the task are assured they will find love.
Other Kyoto Shrines and Temples
Not yet ‘templed out’ and looking for more? Add the following to your Kyoto temple tour!
Toji Temple
Located southwest of Kyoto Station, Toji Temple (East Temple) once stood, along with Saiji Temple (West Temple) as the south entrance to the city.
In addition to the Kondo Hall and Kodo Hall, the Toji Kyoto temple has a pagoda, which stands 187-feet-tall and is the tallest pagoda in Japan.
Nanzen-Ji Temple
Visitors to Nanzenji are greeted by an enormous entrance gate, Sanmon Gate – which was built in 1628. The Zen temple complex is comprised of buildings that date to the 14th century.
One peculiar sight at the Zen Buddhist temple is the brick aqueduct that runs through the complex.
Kenninji Temple
Considered to be the oldest Zen temple in Kyoto, the buildings in the Kenninji complex were built in 1202. The grounds feature gardens as well as both historic and new artwork.
Tofukuji Temple
Especially beautiful in the autumn, Tofukuji dates to 1236. Although there are multiple structures here, many seek out the Tsutenkyo Bridge – both for the views of it and from it.
Chionin Temple
The Chionin Temple is difficult to miss with its gigantic entryway. The gate was built in the 1600s and ranks as the largest wooden gate in Japan.
Eikando Temple
Zenrinji is the original name of this site, meaning Temple in a Calm Grove – which accurately describes it’s location among lush nature.
Popular in the autumn when the colors change, many Kyoto visitors head for the Tahoto Pagoda, which is open for visitors to climb for views of the grounds.
Honen-in Temple
Located near Eikando, Honen-in Temple is sought out for its peaceful atmosphere. On the grounds, there is a moss forest, carp pond and sand garden. It was built in 1680 and is dedicated to Honen, the founder of the Jodo sect of Buddhism.
Kozan ji Temple
Located in the Takao valley which is an hour from Kyoto by bus, Kozan-ji Temple is a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site.
The main attractions at the temple are the historic painted scrolls and tea plantation, which is said to be the oldest in Japan.
Jingoji Temple, Takao
The Jingoji Temple is also in Takao and is approached by a steep staircase. At the top, there is a large gate and multiple structures. However, many go just to toss clay discs into the valley to rid themselves of bad karma.
Myoshinji Temple
The Myoshinji Temple complex is massive, with more than 50 temples and sub-temples on site. Many of the buildings are open to visitors who join one of the complex tours.
Hokanji Temple (Yasaka-no-to Temple)
Most visitors will certainly pass this temple in an old Kyoto neighborhood while walking to Kiyomizu-dera Temple. The beautiful pagoda stands at 150 feet and has classic, sloping roofs.
Daitoku-ji Temple
Located in northern Kyoto, Daitoku-ji Temple is best-known for its Zen gardens where people come to meditate.
Kyoto Temple Map
To prepare for your trip to Japan, use our interactive Kyoto Map of Temples on Google.
Map Key: Orange markers indicate our Top 10 Kyoto Temples; purple markers are other temples to visit in Kyoto. Click on any of the markers for more information, including opening hours and prices.
Looking to experience more of Kyoto? We’ve got you covered with our complete Kyoto Itinerary!
Shrines and Temples: Kyoto Experiences
We loved exploring the temples and shrines in Kyoto on our own at our own pace – but visitors have more options!
Shukubo Kyoto (Temple Lodging Kyoto)
Kyoto visitors seeking out unique experiences can spend the night at a temple in Shukubo – or priests’ accommodations.
There are often strict rules and curfews, but guests are also sometimes invited to participate in special services. While there are several Shukubo, the Shunkoin Temple Kyoto is a popular choice.
Kyoto Tour
We have provided information for visitors to create their own temple tour in Kyoto. However, for guests who would rather join a Kyoto tour, there are many sightseeing options led by professional guides.
More Tips For Your Japan Vacation
Planning to visit more top destinations in Japan? Fantastic! Use our Complete 2 Week Japan Itinerary to plan your perfect trip.
We include everything you need to know – from Where To Go To See Mt Fuji to how to determine if you should buy a Japan Rail Pass.
You can also get ready to Visit Tokyo with our detailed guides for Tokyo Food, the Best Drinks in Tokyo and Our Tokyo Temple Tour!
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