shrines and temples

Walk in darkness on a path to this “secret Buddha” and (maybe) find enlightenment.

Inspiring gardens and autumn madness at Kyoto’s oldest Zen temple.

Do a temple stay at the headquarters of Soto Zen Buddhism.

Visit the golden pavilion of the north deep within the mountains of Iwate Prefecture.

An ancient structure with beautiful ocean views.

The first stop of the sacred Munataka Taisha.

A visit to this quirky shrine based on the famous Japanese children’s tale will leave you feeling peachy.

Not to be outfoxed by her famous sister shrines, Aichi’s Toyokawa Inari shrine mesmerizes millions each year.

A holy mountain with temple stays near Tokyo.

This shrine may look like it’s plucked straight from Kyoto, but its torii tunnel and blooming azalea sit nestled right in Tokyo.

Cherry blossoms, a pagoda, and Mt. Fuji. It doesn't get more "Japan" than this.