When it comes to exploring Japan’s heritage and culture, there is no better place to start than Kyoto. Kyoto is the traditional cultural center of Japan and this former imperial capital is home to thousands of sacred sites, including some of the most iconic and beautiful temples and shrines in Kyoto. While many travelers are familiar with Fushimi Inari Taisha and its endless tunnel of red torii gates, there are countless other temples and shrines in Kyoto that deserve your attention like the Yasaka Shrine, located in the heart of the Gion district.
This blog post will guide you through some of the most beautiful and historically significant shrines in Kyoto, as well as highlight a few of the city’s most revered temples, such as Kinkaku-ji (the Golden Pavilion) and Kiyomizu-dera. Temples and shrines in Kyoto are not only sacred spaces; they are also among the top attractions in Kyoto, drawing visitors from around the world with their beauty, history, and cultural significance. I will also break down the key differences between a shrine and a temple in Japan, which is important for understanding the unique customs and architectural styles of each. Whether you are planning your first visit or returning to dive deeper into Kyoto’s spiritual landmarks, this guide will help you discover the best temples and shrines in Kyoto.
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Japan’s religious landscape is shaped by two main belief systems: Shinto and Buddhism. Shrines in Kyoto are places of Shinto worship, dedicated to kami—spiritual deities or natural forces. These shrines are easily recognized by their iconic torii gates, which symbolize the transition from the secular world into a sacred space. Shrines in Kyoto often feature purification fountains, where visitors rinse their hands and mouths before praying, and are typically more open-air, surrounded by nature. Famous shrines in Kyoto like Fushimi Inari Taisha, Yasaka Shrine, and Shimogamo Shrine provide a glimpse into Japan’s indigenous beliefs and long-standing traditions of honoring gods and spirits.
In contrast, temples in Kyoto are centers of Buddhist worship and are dedicated to various Buddhas or bodhisattvas. While shrines in Kyoto reflect the Shinto focus on harmony with nature, temples often emphasize meditation, enlightenment, and rituals associated with the afterlife. Architecturally, temples tend to include large gates, pagodas, and statue-filled halls. For example, Kinkaku-ji (the Golden Pavilion) and Kiyomizu-dera are among Kyoto’s most famous temples, known for their serene settings and spiritual significance. Visiting both shrines in Kyoto and temples offers a richer understanding of the city’s dual religious heritage, and the peaceful coexistence of these two religious traditions throughout the centuries.
It is important to approach both shrines in Kyoto and temples with respect, just as you would with any church or place of worship elsewhere in the world. Non-believers and tourists are warmly welcomed to temples and shrines in Kyoto, but a basic understanding of etiquette goes a long way.
Upon your arrival at shrines in Kyoto, start by briefly bowing before passing through the torii gate. This gesture is a symbol of respect as you enter a sacred space in the Shinto religion. As you walk along the path toward the main shrine, be sure to stay to the side rather than walking directly in the center of the path underneath the torii gate. The middle of the path and the center of the torii gate itself, are considered the passage for the kami, and it is respectful for humans to avoid it.
Next, you will need to wash your hands with fresh water. The purification fountain at shrines in Kyoto is typically found near the entrance. This ritual cleansing is a symbolic act to purify the body and mind before approaching the sacred space. To use it properly, take the ladle in your right hand and scoop water from the basin. First, pour some of the water over your left hand, then switch the ladle to your left hand and rinse your right. Next, pour a little water into your hand to gently rinse your mouth—this step is optional, especially for tourists—but if you choose to do it, be sure not to touch the ladle directly to your lips. Instead, sip the water from your hand and discreetly spit it out onto the rocks beside the basin, never back into the fountain. Finally, return the ladle to the fountain for the next visitor.
Following these two main rituals at shrines in Kyoto is a thoughtful way to show respect for Shinto tradition and the sanctity of the sites.
If you are interested in making an offering within Shinto shrines in Kyoto, keep in mind that there is more to it than simply placing some coins into an offering box. When offering a prayer, toss a coin into the offering box, bow twice, clap twice, and then bow once more. If a bell is near the offering box, you can ring the bell instead of clapping to alert the kami of your presence. If you are unsure of what you are supposed to do, watch the locals/other visitors and follow their lead.
Additionally, many shrines in Kyoto sell protective amulets for things like health, love, safe travel, or academic success—these can make meaningful souvenirs from your visits to shrines in Kyoto. You can also draw a fortune (known as omikuji) for a small offering, typically ¥100. In the event that you draw a bad fortune, tradition says to tie it to a nearby tree or rack to leave the misfortune behind. (You should clearly see other bad fortunes tied nearby.) Another popular custom is purchasing a wooden plaque called an ema, where visitors write their wishes or prayers and hang them up at the shrine for the gods to receive.
While making an offering, drawing a fortune, or purchasing amulets and ema are completely optional, if you choose to take part in these rituals at shrines in Kyoto, it is important to understand the proper etiquette and approach them with respect.
In temples, the etiquette is pretty similar to that of shrines in Kyoto. As always, remain quiet and respectful, especially in areas where people are meditating or praying. Always remove your shoes before entering temple buildings (clear signs should remind you to remove your shoes), avoid pointing or touching sacred objects, and refrain from taking photos where signs prohibit it.
As you approach the temple, it is customary to bow slightly at the gate before entering. Many temples in Kyoto have large incense burners near the entrance to the main hall. Visitors can choose to purchase a bundle of incense sticks (called osenko), light them at the communal flame, and place them in the burner. Use the communal flame provided by the temple to light your incense; do not light your incense from someone else’s already-burning sticks. After offering the incense to Buddha, you will often see people wafting the fragrant smoke over themselves—believed to purify the body and mind or bring healing to specific areas.
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Kyoto is home to countless Shinto shrines, each offering its own unique atmosphere, history, and spiritual significance. From iconic landmarks and must-see attractions in Kyoto to peaceful hidden gems, here are some of the must-visit shrines in Kyoto to include on your itinerary.
Fushimi Inari Taisha is one of the most iconic shrines in Kyoto and a must-visit thanks to its thousands of torii gates that form an unique pathway up the wooded slopes of Mount Inari. The shrine is dedicated to Inari, the Shinto god of rice, fertility, and prosperity. The shrine, founded in the 8th century, is one of Kyoto's most visited and photographed landmarks.
The striking torii gates are donated by individuals and businesses, bearing inscriptions expressing gratitude for prosperity and success. By some estimates, there are 10,000 torii gates at Fushimi Inari Taisha.
Visitors can ascend to the top of Mount Inari through a network of trails lined with torii gates, passing by mini altars, small shrines, and stone fox statues who are the messengers of Inari. The main shrine complex is located at the summit of Mount Inari and features a scenic overlook. The full hike takes about 2-3 hours.
Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine tends to draw extremely large crowds as one of the top attractions in Kyoto and one of Japan's most popular shrines. However, as you walk further into the seemingly endless pathway of torii gates, the crowds gradually dissipate as most visitors, myself included, only walk halfway up the path to the summit.
Fushimi Inari Taisha is located in the southern part of the city, just a few train stops from Kyoto Station on the JR Nara Line. It is easily accessible from central Kyoto and conveniently located near Komyo-in Temple and Tofukuji Temple, making it a great area to explore for a half-day, especially if you are visiting Kyoto in November when the colorful autumn foliage is at its peak.
I recommend planning to spend at least 90 minutes at Fushimi Inari Taisha to soak in the atmosphere, walk part way up the path, and appreciate the beauty of the surrounding forested hillside. If you are planning on completing the entire hike, remember that it can take 2 to 3 hours. For additional information, please visit the Fushimi Inari Taisha website.
Yasaka Shrine, also known as the Gion Shrine, is a popular Shinto shrine located in the Gion neighborhood of Kyoto. Yasaka Shrine is thought to date back to the 7th century and is dedicated to Susanoo (Sunsanoo-no-Mikoto), the god of storms. Yasaka Shrine is known for its iconic vermilion-colored main gate and lanterns, which make for some pretty incredible photos. Yasaka Shrine is closely associated with the Gion Matsuri (Gion Festival), one of Japan's most famous festivals held annually in July.
Thanks to the central location of the Yasaka Shrine in Gion, I definitely recommend visiting, especially since you will likely be exploring Gion anyways during your time in Kyoto. The Yasaka Shrine does not require a long visit, but stopping by allows you to see another beautiful shrine in Kyoto. Although, this shrine has far fewer torii gates than Fushimi Inari Taisha. For additional information, please visit the Yasaka Shrine website.
Shimogamo Shrine, also known as the Lower Kamo Shrine, is one of the oldest and most important Shinto shrines in Kyoto, located in the northern part of the city on the banks of the Kamo River. Together with its sister shrine, Kamigamo Shrine (the Upper Kamo Shrine), it forms the Kamo Shrine complex, which historically protected Kyoto from evil spirits. The shrine complex is surrounded by the Tadasu no Mori forest. Shimogamo Shrine is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto.
Shimogamo has long played an important role in Kyoto’s religious life and hosts the annual Aoi Matsuri every May—one of Kyoto’s three major festivals.
It takes approximately 30 minutes to reach Shimogamo Shrine from Kyoto Station. While trains are available, city buses offer the most direct path to reach the shrine from central Kyoto. I recommend using a navigation aid, like Google Maps, to help you find the most direct route from your location. Shimogamo is also conveniently close to other attractions such as Kyoto Botanical Gardens and Kyoto Gyoen National Garden, making for a relaxing, nature-filled day in northern Kyoto. For additional information, please visit the Shimogamo Shrine website.
Heian-jingū Shrine, also known as Heian Shrine, is a lesser-known Shinto shrine located in the Okazaki district of eastern Kyoto, not too far from popular attractions in Kyoto like the Kyoto City Zoo and the Kyoto National Museum of Modern Art. The shrine is easily recognizable by its massive red torii gate, one of the largest in Japan, which spans the road leading to the entrance.
Heian Shrine was founded relatively recently by Kyoto standards, in 1895, to commemorate the 1,100th anniversary of the founding of Heian-kyō (Kyoto’s original name) as the imperial capital. The shrine is dedicated to two emperors: Emperor Kanmu, who established the capital in 794 AD, and Emperor Kōmei, the last emperor to rule before the capital moved to Tokyo during the Meiji Restoration.
Visitors to Heian Shrine can enjoy the large courtyards, beautiful gardens (which are especially spectacular during cherry blossom season), and traditional architecture modeled after an ancient imperial residence in Kyoto.
The easiest way to reach Heian-jingū Shrine from Kyoto Station is to take a city bus. Thanks to the shrines location next to other popular attractions in Kyoto like the Kyoto City Zoo and the National Museum of Modern Art, Kyoto (MoMAK), you can easily spend a day exploring this area of the city. Otherwise, you can plan to spend about an hour at Heian-jingū Shrine, with the majority of that time spent exploring the gardens. For more information, please visit the Heian-jingū Shrine website.
The Heian-jingū Shrine is undergoing renovation work until March 2031. During this time, the shrine and garden will remain open to the public.
Kyoto is known as the "City of a Thousand Temples," but with so many to choose from, it can be overwhelming to decide which ones to visit during your time in Kyoto. In this section, I will highlight a few of the must-visit temples in Kyoto, from the dramatic hillside setting of Kiyomizu-dera with its sweeping city views to the serene Kinkaku-ji Temple. These iconic temples and a few lesser-known gems, area great place to start your journey exploring the Buddhist side of Kyoto's spiritual and cultural center.
Kiyomizu-dera Temple is an iconic Buddhist temple situated on the eastern hills of Kyoto in the historic and charming Higashiyama neighborhood. Originally founded in 778 and rebuilt in the 17th century, Kiyomizu-dera is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto.
Key features of Kiyomizu-dera include the Kiyomizu Stage which is a massive wooden terrace supported by wooden pillars, the Main Hall, and its sweeping views of Kyoto—the best in the city. The temple’s name means “Pure Water Temple,” and it is named after the Otowa Waterfall that runs beneath the main hall, where visitors can drink from its three streams, each believed to grant a different blessing: longevity, success at school, or luck in love.
Kiyomizu-dera is especially popular during the cherry blossom season in spring and features vibrant autumn foliage season in November, offering breathtaking views of Kyoto's landscapes.
Visiting Kiyomizu-dera is not just about the temple itself, but also about the journey to reach the temple. The walk through Higashiyama is part of the experience, with its narrow stone-paved streets lined with traditional wooden buildings, teahouses, shops, and confectionery stands. This historic district preserves the charm of old Kyoto and gives visitors a sense of stepping back in time.
If you are interested in renting a kimono on your trip to Kyoto, there are plenty of places to do so in Higashiyama and to be honest, I felt left out not having one on during my visit to Kiyomizu-dera! I wish I had more time to explore this picturesque neighborhood, but I was a woman on a mission, squeezing in as much sightseeing as possible the day I visited Kiyomizu-dera since rain was in the forecast for the rest of my time in Kyoto.
You should plan to spend at least an hour at Kiyomizu-dera Temple and another hour (or two) to explore the immediate area surrounding the temple. If time allows, I recommend pairing your visit to Kiyomizu-dera Temple with nearby attractions like the historic streets of Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka, Kodaiji Temple, or continue your sightseeing north through Higashiyama toward Yasaka Shrine and the Gion District for a full day of exploring Kyoto. For additional information regarding Kiyomizu-dera Temple, please visit the Kiyomizu-dera Temple website.
Tea ceremonies in Japan are a centuries-old ritual and expression of hospitality, mindfulness, and tradition. I had the chance to experience a tea ceremony in Tokyo, which I really enjoyed, but I would love to take part in a more traditional tea ceremony in Kyoto on my next visit. There is the opportunity to experience a tea ceremony at Kiyomizu-dera, with our affiliate partner, GetYourGuide: Tea Ceremony in a Traditional Tea House in Kiyomizu.
Another option for a tea ceremony is at a temple, just over a mile away from Kiyomizu, called Jotoku-ji Temple. While this temple is not really worth visiting on its own, it does have a highly-rated tea ceremony experience available to those interested in learning more about the art and history of preparing (and enjoying) matcha tea. The temple hosts Tea Ceremony Ju-An, where visitors can partake in a 70-minute tea ceremony experience that includes a purification ritual, the preparation and enjoyment of matcha tea, and history behind the ceremony.
Kinkaku-ji, commonly known as the Golden Pavilion, is a beautiful Buddhist temple located in northern Kyoto. The temple is known for its opulent exterior covered in gold leaf, creating a mesmerizing reflection on the tranquil pond that surrounds it. Originally built in 1397 as a retirement villa for the shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu, it was later converted into a temple upon his death.
Surrounded by meticulously landscaped gardens, Kinkaku-ji is a harmonious blend of natural beauty and architectural splendor. The reflective pond, known as Kyoko-chi, enhances the temple's visual impact, especially in late November when the vibrant autumn foliage is at its peak.
Despite being destroyed multiple times over the centuries, including a fire in 1950, Kinkaku-ji has been meticulously restored to preserve its cultural and historical significance. Today Kinkaku-ji is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, as part of the Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto.
Kinkaku-ji is most easily accessed by city bus as there is not a local train or metro station nearby. The closest bus stop is aptly named "Kinkakuji-michi (Kinkakuji Temple)." A number of city bus routes stop at Kinkaku-ji, so I highly recommend using a navigation aid, like Google Maps, to ensure that you take the right bus based on your starting location. From Kyoto Station, the bus ride to Kinkaku-ji takes approximately 38 minutes.
Since Kinkaku-ji is one of the most popular temples to visit in Japan, it is often crowded. I highly recommend visiting an hour before closing to spare yourself from the large crowds. This is when I visited and the temple grounds were quiet and peaceful. However, keep in mind that the last admission to Kinkaku-ji is 30-minutes before closing. You should plan to spend between 45 minutes to an hour at Kinkaku-ji Temple. For additional information, please visit the Kinkaku-ji website.
Chion-in Temple, located in Kyoto's Higashiyama District, is a significant Buddhist temple. Established in the early 13th century, it is the main temple of the Jōdo-shū (Pure Land Sect) of Buddhism.
The temple complex features several impressive structures, including the vast main hall, the Sanmon Gate, and the Miedo Hall. The Sanmon Gate is the largest wooden gate in Japan, standing at 78.7 feet (24 meters) tall and 164 feet (50 meters) wide.
Visitors to Chion-in are easily impressed by its expansive grounds, traditional buildings, and peaceful gardens. The temple is also famous for its annual New Year's bell ringing ceremony, where participants ring the large temple bell to welcome the new year.
Chion-in Temple's close proximity to Yasaka Shrine and the historic Gion District makes it a convenient addition to any Kyoto itinerary. You do not have to spend long at Chion-in Temple as the main attraction really is the Sanmon Gate which is right when you walk-up to the temple. However, you can spend additional time if you wish to enter the main hall or explore the gardens. For additional information, please visit the Chion-in Temple website.
Ginkaku-ji Temple is a Buddhist temple located in the eastern part of Kyoto. Built during the late 15th century, the Silver Pavilion was intended to be covered in silver leaf actually, hence why it is also known as the Silver Pavilion. Ginkaku-ji is often referred to as the sister or twin of Kinkaku-ji, the Golden Pavilion. Both temples showcase distinct architectural styles and are situated in scenic settings with meticulously landscaped gardens.
Surrounded by gardens and a reflective pond, Ginkaku-ji offers a peaceful retreat for visitors. The moss-covered grounds, traditional gardens, and the main hall contribute to the temple's appeal. Ginkaku-ji is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a cultural treasure, making it a popular destination for tourists who are looking to go beyond the top attractions in Kyoto.
Ginkaku-ji is situated along the Philosopher's Path, a picturesque walking trail in Kyoto. It follows a canal and is named after Nishida Kitaro, a philosopher who used to stroll along it for meditation.
Ginkaku-ji is in a quieter part of Kyoto and is best reached by bus. From Kyoto Station, the bus ride to Ginkaku-ji takes approximately 40 minutes. A number of buses stop at Ginkaku-ji Temple, so I recommend using a navigation aid, like Google Maps, to help you find the best route. You will want to get off the bus at the "Ginkakuji-michi (Ginkakuji Temple)" stop. For more information, please visit the Ginkaku-ji Temple website.
Sanjūsangendō is a Buddhist temple located in the Higashiyama neighborhood. The temple's name, Sanjūsangendō, translates to "Hall with Thirty-Three Spaces," referring to the long wooden hall that houses 1,001 life-sized statues of the Buddhist deity Kannon, the goddess of mercy.
The main hall, originally constructed in the 12th century, is famous for its impressive architectural design and the large collection of Kannon statues. Amazingly, each statue is unique.
In addition to the main hall, Sanjūsangendō is surrounded by beautiful gardens, enhancing the overall serene atmosphere of the temple grounds. Visitors are impressed by the intricate details of the statues and the spiritual ambiance that permeates the hall, making it a significant destination for those interested in Japanese Buddhist art and history.
Sanjūsangendō is just a 20-minute walk from Kyoto Station and a 20-minute walk from Kiyomizu-dera Temple, making this temple an easy addition to any itinerary. You should plan to spend about an hour at the temple, longer if you also wish to explore the gardens. The last admission is 30 minutes before closing. More information about the temple is available on the Sanjūsangendō website.
While I am not Shinto or Buddhist (I am Catholic for those wondering), visiting the temples and shrines in Kyoto was an important part of my experience in Japan. I have always believed that the more we learn about other cultures, religions, and traditions, the more empathy and respect we develop for the world around us—and for me, spending time in these sacred spaces was a meaningful way to do just that.
Fushimi Inari Taisha was, hands down, my favorite shrine, not just in Kyoto, but anywhere in Japan. Even with the crowds, walking the tranquil path lined with thousands of torii gates was incredibly peaceful. There is something so calming about being surrounded by nature, even in a busy city. While I did not walk all the way to the summit at Fushimi Inari Taisha, I do not feel like I missed out on that experience. Walking through the torii gates, even if only part way, provides a great representation of the shrine as a whole, especially for those of us who are not a part of the Shinto faith.
I also absolutely loved Kiyomizu-dera Temple and Kinkaku-ji (the Golden Pavilion) in Kyoto. I visited the Golden Pavilion just before closing, and it was beautifully quiet. One of my best friends went to the Golden Pavilion a few months before I did, early in the morning, shortly after the temple opened to the public, and found it so packed that she could barely enjoy it—she actually kind of hated it. So yes, the time of day you visit definitely makes a difference. Getting an early start for Kiyomizu-dera Temple and even Fushimi Inari Taisha definitely helps you beat the crowds, but as you plan your time in Kyoto and look to visit the Golden Pavilion, remember to go later in the afternoon!
There are so many more temples and shrines in Kyoto that I did not have time to see, and they are high on my list for next time—especially Ginkaku-ji (the Silver Pavilion) and Sanjūsangendō Temple, which I have heard is incredible with its 1,001 statues of Kannon, the goddess of Mercy.
Kyoto’s spiritual sites are special, no matter what your beliefs are, and I think there is a real value in experiencing them firsthand. If you are looking to learn more about Kyoto or need assistance in planning your trip to Japan's former capital city, check out our Kyoto Travel Guide for things to do, restaurant suggestions, and more!
Are you interested in visiting any of these temples and shrines in Kyoto? If so, which ones are you adding to your travel itinerary? Let us know in the comments below! 👇