Famous temples in Japan: A guide to the most celebrated Buddhist sites

When visiting historical sites in Japan, Western guests tend to have the same question: What is the difference between a temple and a shrine? The key difference is that while both are considered sacred, they belong to two distinct religious traditions: 

• Buddhist temples: Japanese temples (called tera or o-tera) serve as centers of Buddhist symbolism and teachings. These are maintained by priests who also officiate in services and observances. Temples are recognizable by their large, two-tiered portico (called a sanmon), with a central structure usually built around a statue of Buddha or another Buddhist deity. These places of worship often feature intricate ornamentation, with gilded altars, painted screens and panels, incense burners and other furnishings.
• Shinto shrine: Shinto shrines are easy to recognize, thanks to the large torii gates (typically painted a bright vermilion) that frame the entrance. A purification fountain (or temizuya) is normally found nearby, allowing visitors to wash their hands and mouths before entering. Shrines consist of multiple buildings made from natural carved wood and generally lack additional decorations, though some are more ornate than others. The main shrine (honden) is closed to the public, while the public may visit, pray and take part in other ceremonies at the shrine’s oratory (haiden).

A reliable way to know whether you’re visiting a temple or a shrine is to take a look at the entrance. A large red-orange torii means you’re at a shrine, while a roofed gate — often with doors, guardian statues or elaborate woodwork — usually marks the entrance to a Buddhist temple. Just be aware that some locations combine both traditions, so consider reading up on specific sites before you arrive.

Home to more than 1,600 Buddhist temples (many of which are also UNESCO World Heritage Sites), Kyoto is Japan’s temple heartland. Guests on cruises to Osaka can take advantage of Japan’s extensive rail line and other public transportation options to reach Kyoto. Select Princess excursions from Osaka also include day trips to some of the best temples in Kyoto, providing an easier alternative to handling the travel plans yourself.

Before Kyoto became Japan’s cultural center, there was Nara. Established as the country’s first permanent capital in 710, the city served as the seat of imperial power through 784. Its temples preserve an earlier chapter of Japanese Buddhism, including wooden buildings that date back almost to when Buddhism was first brought to Japan from China. 

From Osaka, Nara can be reached by rail or explored through select Princess excursions.

Tokyo offers a very different temple experience from Kyoto and Nara. Historic sites sit close to shopping streets, train stations and modern neighborhoods, making Buddhist traditions part of the city’s everyday life. About 50 kilometres south, Kamakura shifts the scene to wooded hills and quieter residential streets. Once a medieval capital, it is now home to several celebrated temples that can be visited on a half-day trip from the Port of Yokohama.

Japanese temples welcome visitors from all backgrounds, and you do not need to know every custom before stepping inside. Following these basic practices will allow you to enjoy your experience while showing kindness and respect for the people who come here to worship.

• Keep voices low: Temple grounds are active places of worship, so speak quietly, avoid blocking entrances and give worshippers space.
• Use purification fountains when available: Some Buddhist temples (including Senso-ji) have a temizuya. Use the ladle to rinse your left hand followed by your right. You may also rinse your mouth using water poured into your hand. You should then gently spit the water onto the ground to the side of the fountain. Never touch the ladle to your lips.
• Try the incense ritual if you choose: Many temples have an incense burner where visitors can light a stick and gently waft the smoke toward themselves, a practice associated with purification and good health. Participation is welcome but entirely optional.
• Check before entering inner halls: Some buildings require you to remove your shoes. Look for signs, racks or rows of footwear near the entrance, and be sure to wear comfortable socks.
• Follow photography signs: Photos are generally permitted in gardens and outdoor spaces, but some inner sanctuaries prohibit them. 
• Choose your timing carefully: Arrive before 9 a.m. at popular temples such as Kinkaku-ji and Senso-ji for a quieter visit. At Kiyomizu-dera, late-afternoon light can bring out more detail in the hills and rooftops below the wooden stage.
• Plan around your port: From Yokohama or Tokyo, Senso-ji works well for a half-morning visit, while Kamakura’s Great Buddha is about 45 minutes away by train or accessible through a Princess excursion. From Osaka, both Kyoto and Nara can fit within a shore day when transportation is arranged in advance.
• Allow enough time: Plan at least 4–5 hours for Kinkaku-ji and Kiyomizu-dera together, including transit. Todai-ji deserves about 2 hours, while Horyu-ji requires at least 1.5 hours. 
• Bring the right basics: Wear comfortable walking shoes for uneven stone paths and steps, carry a light layer for cooler inner halls and keep a few small yen notes on hand for offering boxes.

Japan’s temples are open throughout the year, but each season changes the look and feel of the gardens, architecture and surrounding landscapes. The best time to visit depends on whether you prefer spring color, autumn foliage or a quieter atmosphere.

• Cherry blossom season: From late March through mid-April, cherry blossoms bring soft color to temple gardens and wooded hillsides. Kiyomizu-dera and Tenryu-ji are especially popular during this time, with blossoms framing the elevated stage at Kiyomizu-dera and the mountain backdrop at Tenryu-ji.
• Autumn foliage: From mid-November into early December, Japanese maples’ (or momiji) fall foliage turns temple grounds shades of red, copper and orange. Tenryu-ji and Todai-ji are especially memorable in autumn, and the season is generally less crowded than the spring bloom.
• Summer: Warmer temperatures and higher humidity can make longer temple visits more tiring, but summer often brings fewer international visitors and may allow for a more personal experience.
• Winter: Cooler weather gives many temple grounds a quieter atmosphere, especially outside major holiday periods. Bare branches, crisp air and fewer visitors can make it easier to notice the architecture, garden details and daily rituals that are sometimes lost in busier seasons.

From Kyoto’s carefully composed gardens to Nara’s ancient wooden halls, Japan’s temples offer a closer look at the beliefs, craftsmanship and traditions that continue to shape the country. Princess makes that discovery more approachable through considered itineraries, destination expertise and excursions that handle the details while you stay focused on the experience.

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