Kyoto is a city that is always associated with deep culture, ancient history, perfectly preserved pagodas, and serene temples. The old Japanese imperial capital houses more than 1600 temples, shrines, and gardens. And each of them serves a special purpose of its own. Some are known for bringing success in studies; some grant matchmaking wishes; and some of these shrines and temples even relate to avoiding traffic accidents.
In the last few years, Kyoto has witnessed a wave of overtourism. Even though it has risen as a challenge for tourists, in spite of the crowds, this city is still one of the best destinations in Japan.
If you get scared by the thought of extremely crowded temples and shrines, we have a suggestion for you: choose the lesser-known ones.
Not all the 1600+ temples and shrines in Kyoto are super popular; hence, you can always choose the not-so-popular ones if you want to avoid tourist crowds. These lesser-known places might be smaller than the famous ones. But you will surely get time for quiet contemplation in sacred architecture. So, we can say Japan’s Kyoto has lots of hidden gems for peace lovers as well.
Now, let’s see a few famous as well as not-so-famous temples and shrines in Kyoto that are worth visiting.
Temples and Shrines in Kyoto That Are Worth Visiting
All the famous temples and shrines of Kyoto are in one place. Do checkout and plan your trip now.
Kinkaku-ji: The Golden Pavilion
Mostly known as the Golden Pavilion, Kinkaku is one of the most iconic temples in Japan. Its serene beauty is too good to forget. As a result, it is always busy; however, it is still worth fighting the enormous crowd. This one is a UNESCO World Heritage Site as well.
There is a story or incident associated with Kinkaku-ji. In 1950, the majority of its building was burned down in a fire started by a 22-year-old monk who was apparently trying to end his life. Thereafter, the structure was rebuilt exactly as per the original structure.
Kitano Tenmagu Shrine
Kitano Shrine is dedicated to a great scholar and politician, Sugawara no Michizane. He is remembered for the injustice he faced as he was exiled from history. He is said to be associated with Tenjin, the Japanese god of education. Due to this reason, the locals are often seen gathering to pray for luck and success in their studies and exams.
On the 25th of every month, witness a huge flea market that contains things like bonsai and ceramics. This temple is also a great base for Kamishichiken exploration.
Kennin-ji
Kennin-ji is popular for its spectacular dragon ceiling mural and alluring garden. The grounds of this temple are often known as a serene oasis in the centre of the Gion Geisha district of Japan. This temple is also a well-known tourist destination; hence, it is often crowded; however, the crowd is substantially smaller than the crowds seen in other popular destinations in Japan.
You should visit Kennin-ji for its amazing artwork. The pair of gold leaf screens that depict Japanese gods Raijin and Fujin and the colossal Twin Dragon are two of the many unforgettable artworks you will get to see here.
Chion-in
Chion-in is one of the biggest temples in Kyoto. It is located in the Higashiyama district, and it is one of those temples that you must visit while on a spiritual journey in Japan. From the steep steps that lead to the eastern mountains to the San-Mon Gate, there are so many things in Chion-in that will put you on a leap of tranquilly.
Upon climbing the Chion-in steps, you will reach the big bell. Then, you will see a gate leading to a mountain path. Hiking through this path will take you to the Shogunzuka mound, which is visited for the temple complex Seiryuden and its obutai observation deck. From this place, you can have an ethereal panoramic view of the city.
Till now, we were talking about the famous temples and shrines of Kyoto. Now, let’s see some lesser-known ones.
Gio-ji
A lot of visitors miss the entry gate of this temple as they are ignorant about the enthralling beauty that stays beyond the entrance. There is a tiny complex in comparison to the famous temples and shrines; you can literally cover the whole Gio-ji in only 10 minutes. However, these ten minutes would be so beautiful and enriching that they might end up being one of the best memories of a lifetime for you.
As per the legend, Gio-ji came into existence when a shirabyoshi dancer named Gio was jilted when her lover, a chief of the Heike Clan, fell in love with another shirabyoshi. With time, Gio moved to the temple and spent her life as a nun.
Hiezian Enryaku-ji
There is a popular mountain in Kyoto named Mount Hiei; it is also the second-tallest mountain in the city. Upon its summit, you will come across the spectacular complex of Enryaku-ji. It stretches across the mountain. There are multiple temples and shrines along the way.
This lesser-known destination in Kyoto will give you immense peace and a refreshing vibe. Due to the slightly tough climb, it is not chosen by a lot of tourists.
How to Visit Kyoto, Japan
The city of Kyoto lies in Kyoto Prefecture, which is in the southwest of Honshu (Japan’s mainland). Honshu is further located in the Kinki region (also known as Kansai).
If you prefer flying, then you need to be prepared for road travel for your spiritual journeys. Because Kyoto doesn’t have an airport. You will either have to use Itami Airport (ITM) or Kansai International Airport. Thereafter, you can use private transfers, taxis, trains, or airport limousine buses to reach Kyoto.
Just in case you are travelling to Kyoto from some other city in Japan, then we recommend travelling by train. Japan’s rail system is one of the fastest and best in the world. The Shinkansen, or bullet train, is an amazingly efficient and fun way to travel from east to west in Honshu. Whereas, those coming from Kanazawa can use the limited express train.
When to Visit Kyoto, Japan
You will be happy to know that Kyoto is a year-round destination in Japan. Every season sheds its own beauty on the city of temples and shrines. This means all spiritual journeys are bestowed with unique beauty in Kyoto.
When a destination is welcoming all year long, the decision of choosing the best time becomes a matter of your personal choice and preference. It is all about which version of Kyoto will suit your taste, mood, and vibe.
Here’s what you need to know:
Spring can be quite amazing and lovely in Kyoto. It is also commonly known as cherry blossom season due to the fleeting beauty of sakura, or cherry blossom. Remember, it is the most popular season among tourists. You should expect higher prices for food, hotel bookings, etc.
We recommend avoiding the Golden Week holiday, which comes at the end of April and starts in May. Locals also travel and explore a lot during this period, making it particularly pricey and crowded.
If you still want to leave this page with a solid suggestion, it will be “fall,” which remains between October and November. Summers often get extremely hot and humid, whereas winters are actually too cold. So, if you can’t tolerate excessive temperatures, “fall” is your best season to have some spiritual journeys in Kyoto.
Read More: Exploring Tokyo: Best Off the Beaten Paths in Tokyo
Key Takeaway
Choosing one or a few temples from so many amazing pieces of architecture is definitely a daunting task, especially if you are planning a short trip. However, visiting the ones listed in this article will leave you in immense peace and spellbound. Your spiritual journeys to these temples and shrines will not let you regret missing out on other destinations in Kyoto.
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