Japan? category ?

It is a small shrine located in the city. It is usually quiet, but it bustles with worshippers during the New Year's Seven Lucky deities pilgrimage and the festival held on October 19th and 20th. The Bettara - a type of pickled daikon radish sold especially during festivals - has long been known as a local specialty.

It is a small shrine located right next to the Tokyo Stock Exchange. It is said to be the guardian deity of the securities industry. Although it is usually unmanned, a Shinto ritual is held there every year on April 1st. The stone in the shrine precincts is shaped like the helmet worn by samurai in the past.

This temple was founded in 1883 as the Tokyo branch of Minobusan Kuonji, the head temple of the Nichiren sect. The Daikokuten (Mahakala) enshrined here grants wishes when oil is poured over it. Anyone is free to do it, so please give it a try when you visit.

This temple was founded in 851. The principal deity is Kangiten (Nandikesvara), depicted as two figures with the heads of elephants and human bodies locked in an embrace. The stone pillar standing at the entrance bore an inscription stating that it was the first Kangiten in Japan.

This temple was founded in 899. This temple is usually very quiet, but the grounds contain a valuable temple hall. Behind the main hall, there is a path leading up to Mount Shichimen. It is a secluded spot where you can feel a deep sense of sanctity, so I highly recommend it.

Despite being close to Fushimi Inari Taisha, the setting was very quiet and relaxing. The Five Hundred Arhats are one of the temple's most famous attractions and were designed by the 18th-century painter Ito Jakuchu. Each statue had such a rich expression that simply looking at them was a delight.

It is said that this temple originated as a dwelling for monks built in the mountains when Enryakuji Temple on Mount Hiei was founded in the early 9th century. In the 12th century, Emperor Toba constructed a palace on the present site and renamed it Shorenin. You can visit various temple halls and gardens.

Few experiences capture the spirit of Kyoto better than enjoying a bowl of matcha within the peaceful grounds of a temple or shrine. In this guide, you'll discover Kyoto temples and shrines where you can enjoy matcha, relax in a peaceful setting, and experience authentic Japanese culture.

At Kifune Shrine, you can enjoy a variety of experiences, such as prayers offered before the deity, free spring water, prayers for good fortune in relationships, matcha and Japanese sweets within the shrine grounds, and meals by the riverside.

Tojiin Temple was founded in 1341 and serves as the family temple of the Ashikaga shoguns. The strolling pond garden is said to have been created by the renowned garden designer Muso Kokushi. It feels very pleasant to walk slowly through this garden. I recommend enjoying some matcha while gazing at the garden.