These top five temples and Shrines in Japan are a must for anyone traveling around the archipelago.
While in Japan, a shrine visit is probably high on your list of things to do. Shinto and Buddhist shrines and temples are knitted into the very fabric of everyday life in Japan.
With the number of shrines and temples in Japan reaching well into the tens of thousands, it can almost feel like there’s one every corner; two if you’re in Kyoto!.
You could spend years visiting every temple and shrine in the country. But if you’ve only got a week or two, which ones should you visit?
In this post, we’ll look at the top five Japanese shrines everyone should see once in their lives.
Meiji Jingu
Located in the heart of Tokyo, the Meiji shrine is perhaps one of the most famous shrines in Japan. Tourists are often pleasantly surprised to find out just how accessible it is. Adjacent to Yoyogi Park and Harajuku subway station, you’ll pass the Meiji Shrine on your first day exploring Tokyo.
Originally built to honor the enshrined spirits of Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken, Meiji is our number one must-see shrine. It tops our list because of its serenity and the glimpse it offers into a traditional world– despite being just around the corner from one of the most contemporary places in modern Japan (Harajuku).
Tokyo: Meiji Jingu, 1-1 Yoyogikamizonocho, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo 151-8557
Shitenno-ji
Located in Osaka, Shitenno-ji is one of the oldest shrines in Japan. Prince Shotoku built the shrine in 593, becoming an integral figure in Japan’s history. Shotoku was Regent to Empress Suiko, his aunt, and he played a crucial role in bringing Buddhism to Japan. The Shitenno-ji shrine represents Buddhism’s birth in the country.
Osaka: Shitenno-ji, 1-11-18 Shitennoji, Tennoji Ward, Osaka, 543-0051
Kinkaku-ji
Kyoto’s Kinkaku-ji temple has a long and distinguished history. This beautiful temple survived the Onin Wars and the battles of WWII, only to be set alight by a young monk battling schizophrenia in 1950. Each floor has a unique architectural style. The top two floors of Kinkaku-ji are covered entirely in gold leaf – earning the temple the nickname “Temple of the Golden Pavilion.” After the temple was rebuilt in 1955, it became (and remains) one of Japan’s most treasured tourist destinations.
Kyoto: Kinkaku-ji, 1 Kinkakujicho, Kita Ward, Kyoto, 603-8361
Suggested Reading
Kiyomizu-dera
Supported by 13-meter-high wooden columns, Kiyomizu-dera juts out from the side of a mountain in eastern Kyoto. The temple opened in 778 AD, is also part of UNESCO’s World Heritage List (Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto).
But our favorite point of interest for Kiyomizu-dera is the Jishu-Jinja shrine. Jinshu, the god (kami) of love & matchmaking, is said to bless those who navigate the path between the shrine’s two large stones, with eyes closed, by bestowing luck on them to find the great love of their life.
But all is not lost if you are unable to navigate the path alone. If you need assistance to make the blindfolded mini-pilgrimage, don’t despair.
Legend says this means you’ll just need a helping hand when it comes to finding your forever love.
Kyoto: Kiyomizu-dera, 1 Chome-294 Kiyomizu, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, 605-0862
Itsukushima: One Of The Most Popular Shrines In Japan
Near Hiroshima, the gates to the Itsukushima shrine reach up from the waters surrounding Miyajima island (where “people and gods live together.”)
Photos of the gate–the torii–that appears to float in the waters at high tide are some of the most popular images of shrines in Japan you can find.
The gate is also believed to be the boundary between the human world and the spirit world.
During low tide, you can walk to the foot of the torii. And, if you’re lucky, you might just catch a glimpse of some of the wild deer that populate the island, revered as sacred creatures.
Hiroshima: Itsukushima, 1-1 Miyajima-cho, Hatsukaichi City 739-0588
Top Five Temples + Shrines In Japan: Frequently Asked Questions
The most powerful shrine in Japan is often considered to be Ise Grand Shrine, also known as Ise Jingu, which is dedicated to the sun goddess Amaterasu and is held in the highest esteem by the Shinto religion.
The number 1 shrine in Japan is Ise Grand Shrine or Ise Jingu, located in the city of Ise in Mie Prefecture. It is considered the holiest and most important Shinto shrine in the country.
The most important Shinto shrine is Ise Grand Shrine (Ise Jingu), dedicated to the sun goddess Amaterasu. It is seen as the spiritual home of the Japanese people and has a deep significance in the Shinto religion.
The most popular shrines in Japan can be found in various locations across the country. Some of the most famous ones include Ise Grand Shrine in Mie Prefecture, Fushimi Inari Taisha in Kyoto, Meiji Shrine in Tokyo, and Itsukushima Shrine in Hiroshima. These shrines attract huge numbers of visitors each year due to their cultural and historical significance.
Top Five Japanese Shrines: Closing Thoughts
From Meiji Jingu’s urban oasis and serene beauty to Itsukushima Shrine’s grandeur, each shrine offers something special. Whether you’re looking for a breathtaking view or a spiritual connection, these top five Japanese shrines provide an unforgettable journey for anyone seeking it.
These five iconic shrines are just a small sampling of what Japan has to offer while helping visitors create memories that will stay with them long after returning home. From the awe-inspiring architecture to the spiritual atmosphere, visiting these shrines can be an incredibly rewarding, personally uplifting experience.
The post Discover Top Five Shrines In Japan For An Uplifting Journey appeared first on EarthSurfer.
This post first appeared on EarthSurfer | The Ultimate Guide To Oceania, please read the originial post: here
