4 Historic Temple You Must Visit In Japan!

KiaraNews.com - First-time visitors to Japan are sometimes surprised to learn that one of the world's most developed countries has a rich history dating back thousands of years. When the various cathedrals or churches in Europe were not built, Japanese Shinto and Buddhist temples were built and attracted pilgrims and patrons for their stunning designs and decorations. At the same time, Japan also acquired and perfected their maritime skills and trade throughout Asia. Thousands of years of history have made it one of the countries with a very diverse history even though the effects of war have had a devastating impact on these various relics, but along with the economic recovery that has occurred in Japan various preservation of historic things continues and because of that Japan offers the best variety of tourist objects that are not there will be no end! With lots of fun things to do and exciting new places to explore, a vacation in Japan is definitely a great choice! One of the iconic buildings is the various Temples, Shrine or Monasteries in Japan and I will give some recommendations.

1. Kiyomizudera Temple

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Kiyomizudera is a temple that was built around the 780s and this temple is one of the most famous. Located in the vicinity of Otowa Falls, a forested hilly area in eastern Kyoto, The name of this shrine is taken from the pure autumn water "Pure Water Temple" , Being one of the largest Kiyomizudera Shrines famous for its distinctive wooden structure and terraces, the Temple is also 13 meters above the hillside which provides a Stage for visitors with a beautiful view of the many Maple, Cherry and Sakura trees below that grow in a sea of ​​various colors in spring and autumn, and view the city of Kyoto from an amazing perspective. The main hall was constructed as the main hall which together with the stage was constructed without the use of nails and using only stacked logs. The main hall became the shrine to the god Kannon, the Thousand Weapon. Feel the Spiritualist sensation and the beautiful scenery at the same time!

2. Kinkakuji Temple

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Kinkakuji Temple, is a Zen temple located in the vicinity of northern Kyoto a historical shrine completely covered in gold leaf. The shrine is officially known as Rokuonji and was originally built as the private villa of one of the Shoguns at that time, Ashikaga Yoshimitsu, the last testament that was conveyed was that he wanted to make it a shrine for the Rinzai sect after his death. The Kinkakuji Temple is one of the most impressive and iconic structures built overlooking the large pond, and the only remaining structure of the former Private Shogun Yoshimitsu complex. Kinkakuji, built to preserve the extraordinary Kitayama culture and flourishing in Kyoto's rich aristocratic circle during the Yoshimitsu period, was built where each floor represents a distinct Japanese architectural style. Shaka and Yoshimitsu Buddha statues are on the first floor and can be seen from a distance. In addition, at the exit there are various gift shops and small tea gardens, where you can enjoy tea and matcha sweets.

3. Todaiji Temple

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Todaiji, the Great Eastern Temple is one of the most famous temples of historical importance in Japan and is one of Japan's Iconic landmarks in Nara. Todaiji Temple was built around the year 752 as the main temple of Buddhism and is the main center of all Buddhist temples in Japan, Buddhist influence grew very strong in Japan. Recent years Todaiji has held the record with its main hall namely Daibutsuden, Great Buddha Hall, As the largest wooden-built building in the world, Several renovations and reconstructions since 1692 have been routine, and are currently only about two-thirds of the size of the original temple hall when built in 752. Todaiji houses one of the largest bronze Buddha statues in the world with a sitting Buddha sitting 15 meters tall symbolizing Vairocana. Todaiji also has a very large land and covers almost the entire northern Nara Park. Various other small temples are also here.

4. Yamadera Temple

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Yamadera is another beautiful iconic temple and it is located in the mountainous northeast surrounding Yamagata City. The temple grounds soar up around the steep mountain slopes and provide great views of the valley. Yamadera Temple was founded over a thousand years ago around the year 860 as a temple for the Tendai sect under the name Risshakuji. During the Heian Period, Emperor Seiwa sent one of the most important Buddhist priests to this temple, that priest, Jikaku Daishi and one of the historical figures in the development of Buddhism in Japan, Yamadera is also known for the visit of one of the famous poets Basho. Various areas can be seen here and one of them is the Godaido Hall. This is an observation deck with a valley view on the top of a hill. This hall was built around the early 1700s and stretches over a cliff giving a very amazing view.

The influence of Buddhism is very rapid in Japan along with the culture of Shinto religion creating a new era in Japan where it provides a long historical value through various temple buildings. The hallmark of Japanese architecture that is built high and sturdy but with a unique structure creates an amazing building. Visiting various temples in Japan can be a great vacation option, you can enjoy a spiritualist nuance with various characteristic views from each place. Vacationing is fun, but I hope you will always take care of your health during the current COVID-19 Pandemic. Always wash hands, use masks and do Social Distancing, Happy Holidays and Stay Safe!