Sacred Sites and Pilgrimages in Japan
A spiritual travel guide to Japan, covering 10 holy places and pilgrimage destinations.
This guide lists 10 sacred sites in Japan , connected to 4 spiritual traditions: Shinto, Buddhism, Tenrikyo, Ainu religion. 5 of them belong to UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Each guide covers history, what to see, dress code, opening hours and the best time to visit.
Sacred sites in Japan
Fushimi Inari Taisha
Walk the torii gate tunnels of Fushimi Inari Taisha in Kyoto, head shrine of the rice deity Inari, on a mountain trail loved by pilgrims and travelers.
Ise Grand Shrine
Make a pilgrimage to Ise Grand Shrine in Mie, the holiest site of Shinto and home of the sun goddess Amaterasu, set in ancient cedar forest.
Itsukushima Shrine
Visit Itsukushima Shrine on Miyajima, famous for its floating torii gate, and climb sacred Mount Misen on a classic Japan pilgrimage and day trip.
Izumo Taisha
Visit Izumo Taisha in Shimane, one of Japan's oldest Shinto shrines, where the gods gather each autumn and couples pray for good relationships.
Kumano Kodo and Kumano Hongu Taisha
Hike the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage trails on the Kii Peninsula to the three Kumano Grand Shrines, a UNESCO route of forests, hot springs and faith.
Mount Fuji
Climb Mount Fuji, Japan's sacred volcano and home of the goddess Konohanasakuya-hime, or visit the Sengen shrines at its base on a spiritual journey.
Mount Koya
Stay at a temple on Mount Koya, the center of Shingon Buddhism founded by Kukai, and walk the lantern-lit Okunoin cemetery on a Japan pilgrimage.
Tenrikyo Church Headquarters
Visit the Tenrikyo Church Headquarters in Tenri, the Jiba where followers believe humanity began, and join a welcoming Joyous Life pilgrimage.
Todai-ji
See the Great Buddha of Todai-ji in Nara, a vast bronze Vairocana inside one of the largest wooden halls in the world, surrounded by sacred deer.
Upopoy National Ainu Museum and Park
Visit Upopoy in Shiraoi, Hokkaido, a national center for Ainu culture where travelers learn about kamuy beliefs, ceremonies and the Ainu memorial.