
52 temples · 27 shrines
Kyoto Prefecture is in the Kansai region of western Japan and is known for its long history as a center of Japanese culture. It includes Kyoto City, former imperial sites, many temples and shrines, and scenic areas such as the Tango coast and the rural mountains of the north.
A ranked guide to standout temples and shrines for planning a meaningful visit.
Adashino Nenbutsuji is a quiet Buddhist temple on the western edge of Kyoto’s Arashiyama district, along routes leading into the northwest hills. It is noted as a place of remembrance and prayer, with a serene temple setting that offers a reflective stop...
Agata Jinja is a Shinto shrine in Uji, Kyoto, about 100 meters west of Byodoin’s south gate. Known for blessings of good marriages, safe childbirth, business prosperity, and family safety, it is a popular local worship site and sightseeing stop.
View detailsPerched on the eastern hills of Kyoto, Kiyomizudera Temple has been a symbol of Buddhist devotion for over twelve centuries. Founded in 778 CE by the priest Enchin, this temple is dedicated to Kannon, the bodhisattva of compassion and mercy, and is part of...
A small Shinto shrine in Kyoto's Arashiyama district, nestled within the bamboo forest near Tenryūji. Founded as a purification site for imperial priestesses before serving at Ise Shrine, it features a rare black torii gate and appears in the 11thcentury...
Kinkakuji is a Zen Buddhist temple in Kyoto centered on the Golden Pavilion; it's part of the UNESCO World Heritage "Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto". The original burned; the current pavilion, with goldleafed upper floors, was rebuilt in 1955.
Yuki Shrine is a Shinto shrine in Kurama, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto, near Kurama Station. Known for its 940 relocation to protect the area, it sits among ancient cedars on the grounds of Kuramadera and is the focal point of the Kurama Fire Festival.
One of Kyoto's Five Great Zen Temples, founded in 1236 with the oldest Zen gate in Japan. Famous for spectacular autumn foliage at Tsutenkyo Bridge, four unique modern gardens, and ancient Zen architecture from the Muromachi Period.
Ichihime is a Shinto shrine in Kyoto’s Shimogyo Ward, dedicated to five female deities and long associated with women’s protection, safe childbirth, and matchmaking. It sits near KawaramachiGojo, with a historic sacred well and a compact urban precinct.
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