Temple Archives - Have Ya Seen Japan

What to do when visiting a Japanese temple or shrine?

It is the birthplace of Shintoism and one of the strongholds of Buddhism, but what should one do when visiting temples and shrines in Japan?

Higashi Hongan-ji Temple is an iconic landmark a short walk from Kyoto station. In November 2025, I happened to pass by during a festival!

Koshoji Temple features some of the most spectacular Japanese gardens and architecture in Kyoto’s matcha green tea town of Uji.

Chionji Temple is located along the stunning Miyazu Bay in Amanohashidate, home to one of the Nihon Sankei – Japan’s Three Scenic Views.

Shintoism is the Indigenous religion of Japan and promotes a spiritual way of life in harmony with nature and all forms of life.

Known as Kyoto’s “Chinese Temple” because of its origins, Manpukuji is the head temple of the Japanese Obaku Zen school.

Called the Zuiko-in Temple, this mesmerizing landmark is better known as the temple nestled in the forests of Mt. Daimonji.

Kyoto’s Silver Pavilion (Ginkaku-ji) is often outshone by its Golden Pavilion (Kinkaku-ji) counterpart, but here’s why that’s simply not true.

The cherry blossoms are blooming! If you’re in Japan now or plan to be in the next week, you MUST check out these 5 sakura spots in Kyoto!

Mt. Fuji, sakura, and bonsai are the icons of Japan’s beauty, but the truth is there is an abundance of reasons that make Japan beautiful.

Nestled in the mountainous ranges of Kyoto’s Hieizan (Mt. Hiei), Enryaku-ji Temple is one of the most significant sites in Japanese history.

Kiyomizu-dera is one of Kyoto’s most popular temples, but with most of it already free for the public, is it worth entering the paid section?