Temples and Shrines in Okayama Prefecture, Japan

Saidai-ji Kannon-in

Okayama

Goshuin

Founded in 751, this ancient Buddhist temple enshrines Senju Kannon and hosts the famous Hadaka Matsuri (Naked Festival) each February. The temple features historic structures including a threestory pagoda, Niomon Gate, and a Korean bell.

Why you should go

Plan extra time in February if you want to see the temple's best-known event, the Hadaka Matsuri festival.
Saidai-ji Kannon-in was founded in 751 and is an ancient Buddhist temple dedicated to Senju Kannon (Thousand-armed Kannon).
If visiting in February, expect major crowds during Hadaka Matsuri (Eyo); go outside festival dates for a quieter temple visit.

3-chōme-8-8 Saidaijinaka, Higashi-ku, Okayama 704-8116, JapanWebsite

Otaru Tenguyama Jinja

1 Goshuin

A Shinto shrine on Mt. Tengu in Otaru, Hokkaido, near the ropeway summit. It is a small mountaintop shrine linked to Sarutahiko worship and a scenic stop for visitors enjoying panoramic views over Otaru Port and Ishikari Bay.

Why you should go

Locate and rub the nose of the Tengu statue (called 'Hanade Tengu-san') near the shrine, as this is a popular wish-granting ritual specific to this location.
Arrive at the shrine via the ropeway early in the morning or on weekdays to experience the mountaintop shrine in relative solitude, as most visitors come for the daytime views and night scenery rather than the spiritual site itself.
Take photos of the illuminated torii gates and shrine approach at night, as the lighting creates a notably different and more atmospheric scene than daytime visits.

2 Chome Tenguyama, Otaru, Hokkaido 047-0012, JapanWebsite +81 134-33-7381

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Shrine

Ankoku-ji

Okayama

Open now

Goshuin

A Rinzai Zen Buddhist temple of the Myoshinji branch founded in the 14th century. Known for its beautiful Sekirinen garden and wellmaintained grounds. The temple features traditional architecture and seasonal foliage, attracting visitors yearround.

Why you should go

The Ankoku-ji system expanded under the Ashikaga shogunate, with about 60 Ankoku-ji temples established across Japan in the 14th century.
Ankoku-ji is a Rinzai Zen Buddhist temple of the Myoshinji branch, a major lineage within Japanese Zen.
"Ankoku-ji" can mean "Temple for National Pacification," reflecting the historical Ankoku-ji temple network.

1203 Odanaka, Tsuyama, Okayama 708-0006, Japan+81 84-982-3207

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Temple

Okayama Jinja

Okayama

Opens in 47 min

Goshuin

Okayama Jinja is a Shinto shrine in Okayama City, Okayama Prefecture, in western Japan’s Chūgoku region. It enshrines local kami and hosts New Year and seasonal matsuri. Typical features include a torii, honden, and stone lanterns. Okayama is noted for...

Why you should go

Look for the historic torii gate that survived wartime fires and holds strong spiritual significance. Take time to read the ema votive tablets where locals write prayers, often featuring Momotaro peach motifs, along with wishes for exams
Parking is available on the shrine grounds with space for approximately ten vehicles, making it convenient if you're combining your visit with nearby Okayama Castle and Korakuen Garden, both within walking distance.
Visit during seasonal festivals or special days like Ichinichi Manbai to see kagura dances and families celebrating Shichi-Go-San. However, nearby food festivals may create a less traditional atmosphere.

2-33 Ishizekicho, Kita Ward, Okayama, 700-0813, JapanWebsite +810862874111

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Shrine

Okayama Prefecture

Cities & Wards

Okayama

Top places to visit in Okayama Prefecture

Saidai-ji Kannon-in

Why you should go

Okayama Prefecture throughout the year

Otaru Tenguyama Jinja

Why you should go

Ankoku-ji

Why you should go

Okayama Jinja

Why you should go

Cities & Wards

Okayama

Top places to visit in Okayama Prefecture

Saidai-ji Kannon-in

Why you should go

Okayama Prefecture throughout the year

Explore More Prefectures

Otaru Tenguyama Jinja

Why you should go

Ankoku-ji

Why you should go

Okayama Jinja

Why you should go