A Shinto shrine dedicated to the souls of Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken, Meiji is surrounded by lush forests that are a haven of peace in the big city.

An important Rinzai Zen temple on the Path of Philosophy, Nanzenji has a beautiful Zen garden and extensive grounds.

Originally intended to be coated in silver, this harmonious temple ended up in simple wood. It houses an image of Kannon and includes lovely gardens.

Founded when Nara was the capital, Todaiji was the head temple of all provincial temples in Japan. It is home to the largest Buddha statue in Japan, which weighs 250 tons.

A uniquely ornate Shinto shrine dedicated to the Tokugawa shoguns.

This temple complex is considered one of the best places to experience Zen art, architecture and practice.

Founded in 607 AD, Horyuji is where Buddhism blossomed and spread throughout Japan. The temple boasts the oldest wooden building in the world.

Sanjusangendo houses 1,001 statues of Kannon in Japan's longest wooden building.