The oldest Zen-temple in Kyoto, Kennin-ji isn’t just important spiritually, it’s also full of beautiful artworks including an amazing painted dragon ceiling – yet it’s not always on everyone’s ‘Kyoto sights list’. Here’s why it should be – especially if you’re an art lover.
Shrines and Temples
There are thousands of shrines and temples in Japan, so how do you decide which to visit? Here’s a guide to our favourites.
Is it Worth Paying Extra at Tofuku-Ji?
Tofuku-ji is one of the quieter, large temple complexes in Kyoto to visit. You pay to get in, but then you can pay an extra 1000 fee to enter two extra areas – the bridge and the garden – but is it worth it? I coughed up the cash to find out…
How to Visit Gotokuji – the Waving Cat Temple
It’s the Buddhist temple that’s home to thousands of white waving cats, but why are they there, and how do you get to Gotokuji? Our guide gives you all the advice you need.
Komagome Myogi Shrine: Tokyo’s Hidden Cat Shrine
The white cats of Gotoku-ji get all the headlines, but tucked away in a small suburb of Tokyo is a shrine dedicated to black cats. You’ll find cute statues, beautiful goushuin and maybe even a visit from an actual kitty.
Exploring Jindai-ji – Tokyo’s Step Back in Time
Tokyo is famous for bright lights and busyness – stations so huge you get lost, crossings that thousands of people traverse in one go, etc. It’s sensory overload – but if you know where to look, there are also pockets of peace just a short train journey away – like Jindai-ji.
How to Get to Katsuo-ji, Osaka – And What To Do When You Arrive
Katsuo-ji is a temple outside of Osaka that’s famous for the thousands of daruma dolls people leave there as offerings. Here’s how to get there and everything you need to know once you arrive.
What’s the Difference Between a Shrine and a Temple in Japan?
It might surprise you to hear that these are not the same thing. Here’s the main difference between a shrine and a temple in Japan – and how to tell which you might be visiting.
What Not to Miss at Daishoin Temple, Miyajima
While the ‘floating’ torii gate on the island of Miyajima gets all the tourist love, a short walk into the island brings you to Daishoin. Do not miss this Buddhist temple. It’s amazing, with lots of quirky touches. Here’s what to look out for when you visit.