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Bucket list experience:

Last updated: 04 December, 2022
Expert travel writer: Rob Goss

You are born Shinto (Japan’s indigenous religion) but die Buddhist – or so one Japanese saying goes. While most Japanese wouldn’t call themselves religious nor profess to have a faith, the traditions of both Buddhism, which came to Japan in the 6th century, and Shintoism, run deep in Japan.

Newborns are celebrated with a visit to a shrine for Shinto rites, death sees Buddhist ceremonies. Marriage could be a solemn Shinto affair or even a white wedding, with an English teacher moonlighting as a fake priest.

The most common religious encounter for travellers is a visit to a temple or shrine – Kyoto alone has a combined total of almost 2,000, Japan roughly 150,000 in all. The main difference between the two? Temples are Buddhist, shrines Shinto, and the latter are distinguishable by their often-red torii gateways.

Temple in day among trees
Experience

Ginkakuji Temple

Kyoto, Kansai, Japan

Originally built as a shogun’s retirement villa in 1482, the ‘Silver Pavilion’ is a rare 15th-century Zen temple and garden that blend beautifully into the natural surroundings. Walk around the circular route.

Best for ages: 13+ | Free

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Sunrise on tempe between trees
Experience

Kenninji Temple

Kyoto, Kansai, Japan

Established in 1202, this temple at the southern end of Hanami-koji has traditional Zen gardens and incredible ceiling murals of dragons (added in 2002). It claims to be the oldest temple in Kyoto.

Best for ages: 13+ | Free

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Kinkakuji Temple

Kyoto, Kansai, Japan

The stunning, gilded temple of Kinkakuji, casting its golden reflection onto an islet-studded pond, is the iconic Kyoto image. A UNESCO World Heritage site.

Best for ages: 13+ | Free

Price: Free
Minimum age: Any
Age suitable: 13+
When: All year around

Recommended itineraries by our writers that include this experience

Our writer’s picks of the best places to stay near this experience, closest first

Aman Kyoto

Kyoto, Kansai, Japan

Traditional inn meets luxury wellness retreat at this uber-exclusive hotel. Special extras include mineral-rich hot-spring baths and an evening with the geisha of Kyoto’s oldest chaya (teahouse).

Official star rating:

Ace Hotel Kyoto

Kyoto, Kansai, Japan

A plush hipster hangout smack in the heart of central Kyoto, ideal for arty and creative types.

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BnA Alter Museum

Kyoto, Kansai, Japan

One for art aficionados – a minimalist boutique that’s a living art gallery. All rooms are created by local artists.

Official star rating:

Celestine Kyoto Gion

Kyoto, Kansai, Japan

An affordable hotel offering modern Japanese simplicity and hospitality in the historic Gion geisha district. A great base for sightseeing.

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Destination guides including or relevant to this experience

Kyoto

Kansai, Japan

Ancient temples and shrines, sublime cuisine, manicured gardens, colourful geishas and living history in spades – Kyoto is traditional Japan at its best.

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