Top 20 most beautiful temples in Kyōto2026 ranking

I went to Japan when I was 8 years old, but I have an unforgettable memory of the Golden Pavilion in Kyoto. I was observing the garden while following my parents that day, and I remember seeing the Golden Pavilion at the top of a flight of stairs and being captivated by its beauty. I decided to head down the stairs to catch up with my parents, and as I was walking down, I felt someone tap me on the shoulder. I turned around to find a made-up maiko in traditional attire looking at me. I was impressed, turned back to my father who pulled out his camera, and... click-click! The picture of me with an apprentice geisha is still displayed in my home, and that memory is forever associated with the…

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Kinkaku-ji was an almost mythical place for me after reading The Temple of the Golden Pavilion by Yukio Mishima. Seeing it in person was a pretty moving moment. The golden building reflecting in the pond, the pine trees and the garden all around... Everything there is magnificent. There are certainly a lot of visitors, but I understand why this temple has fascinated so many people.

Another little hidden gem! Here, you find an older, more authentic Japan. And that starts right from the street leading up to the temple. The main attraction is definitely the 1,200 stone statues, all of them different. I spent a lot of time admiring the unique details of each one. The atmosphere is very serene and mystical, a space preserved from all the hustle and bustle. Just a heads up: it is in the most out of the way part of Arashiyama. Luckily, a bus can take you back to the station!

Another temple that is a bit off the beaten path. Nevertheless, the walk there takes you through a very pleasant area. Plus, you will have plenty of other temples to visit nearby. This makes for a very relaxing stroll after the crowds of Kyoto itself. This one is best visited in the spring (like I did) or in the fall, so you can enjoy the greenery or the stunning colors.

Unfortunately, I couldn't see it with the cherry blossoms in bloom (I would have loved to). Still, if you have the chance, this temple is a magnificent spot for hanami. Even without that, the water garden is beautiful and incredibly serene. The same goes for the pavilions. You can feel the importance of this place, which was once an emperor's residence, and you understand why he loved coming here.

The legend of three women originates from this place. These were dancers who preferred to become nuns rather than be the plaything of a powerful man. True or not, the story is everywhere here, including in the souvenirs sold on site. I recommend it. The moss garden is stunning. You feel like you have stepped into another world with green as far as the eye can see!

Arashiyama is one of my favorite places in Kyoto. And among the many temples to visit, this one is at the top of the list! The visit will easily take up an early afternoon. It is a complex with a very large Japanese garden, green spaces, and flowers... And also some unique paintings. Yes, there will be crowds, but it is worth it.

Way less crowded with tourists than the Golden Pavilion, this is a really lovely visit, with a nice view of the city of Kyoto. The short path takes you through absolutely magnificent gardens, and it is a peaceful place that is worth the trip. The little shop also sells some very cool souvenirs that are more original than the ones in the super touristy spots. You can combine this visit with the Philosopher's Path on your way there or back!

Kiyomizu-dera is my favorite temple in Japan because it offers a panoramic view of Kyoto surrounded by mountains. We walked there by passing through the authentic (and touristy) Gion neighborhood. We chose to wear kimonos for the occasion. It was a really cool experience, even climbing up there in traditional Japanese wooden sandals. A nice surprise at the top, a magnificent temple that is very different from the others.

Tōfuku-ji Temple is mostly known for its large Zen garden, which is really popular with visitors. It feels like a giant version of those miniature Zen gardens. Built in the 13th century, it is a Buddhist temple of the Rinzai school, appreciated for its magnificent autumn colors. Take advantage of a visit to the Golden Pavilion in Kyoto to explore it. Only go check it out if you have the time and you won't have other chances to see Zen gardens in Japan.