Fushimi Inari Shrine
Kyoto, Kansai, Japan
One of Japan’s most sacred shrines, Fushimi Inari’s thousands of torii gateways also make it one of the country’s most Instagrammable sights.
Best for ages: 6+ | £2
Bucket list experience:
Kyoto’s must-see temples & shrines
Kyoto, Kansai, Japan
Last updated: 04 December, 2022
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.
Want more recommendations in this destination?
Destination Guide >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
Website >
Overview >
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
Website >
Overview >
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
Kyoto 5-day Itinerary
Japan
Where to go and what to see in Kyoto to get the most from your trip – a 5-day itinerary from destination expert and Japan travel writer Rob Goss.
Website >
Overview >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.
Official star rating:
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.
Official star rating:
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.
Website >
Overview >