Temples in Japan

Discover 42 unusual temples in Japan.

Matsumoto, Japan

Yohashira-jinja Shrine

This traditional Japanese shrine is dedicated to four Shinto deities.

Rokudō Chin’nōji Temple

It is believed that this Buddhist temple stands right on the gateway to the underworld.

Shibamata Taishakuten's Sculpture Gallery

A hidden gallery exhibits intricate, decades-old Buddhist reliefs.

Gokōshiyui Amidabutu

This statue of Buddha has a distinctive hairstyle meant to represent an unfathomably long period of meditation.

Denden-gu

A small shrine dedicated to a god of lightning and electronics.

Usami Kannon-ji

The largest seated Buddha statue in Japan is the centerpiece of an abandoned complex in a quiet, seaside town.

Sasaguri, Japan

Nanzoin Temple

A serene mountaintop temple complex featuring one big, bronze Buddha.

Katsuo-ji Temple

Visitors to this temple are greeted by a massive collection of wooden dolls said to bring good fortune.

Kankan Jizō

Although damaged beyond recognition, this stone god is still said to bring good luck to those who tap on him with a pebble.

Matsuchiyama Shoden

Daikon radishes are offered to the Japanese Buddhist counterpart of the Hindu god Ganesha at this historic hilltop temple.

Mara Kannon

This phallic temple was erected in the forest to honor the tragic death of a samurai lord's son.

Mama Kannon Temple

The only Buddhist temple in Japan dedicated to breasts.

Kanazawa, Japan

Myouryuji (Ninja Temple)

Although it has never been a secret ninja base, this shrine still has plenty of tricks up its sleeve.

Hōryū-ji

Home to the world's oldest wooden building.

Tsuki Shrine

A unique Shinto shrine filled with bunnies and wordplay.

Itoshima, Japan

Raizan Sennyoji Daihioin Temple

A culturally significant rural temple in the beautiful mountains of Itoshima.