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Temples
Common Features
Temples in the country vary in size, layout, design and other features, but the following are some elements that are commonly found in the
majority of them:
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Butsuden – Translated as Hall of Buddha, this is the temple’s main hall, where the Buddha statue is enshrined.
Hatto – Translated as Dharma Hall, this is a separate structure in a temple complex that serves as a lecture building for Buddhism
scriptures delivered by the chief priest.
Honbo – The official residence of the temple’s head priest.
So-do – Also called the monk hall, it is a building where monks can practice zazen, eat, sleep, and do various other activities related to
zazen.
Karesansui – Usually found in Zen temples, this is a Japanese rock garden that is also featured in other sects’ temples.
Mon – General term for a temple gate that can be prefixed with the gate’s position (omotemon: front gate), a deity’s name (Niomon:
named after Nio), or its design (karamon: a type of temple gate with an arched style roof) to refer to a specific gate in a temple complex.
Stupa – Also known as “–to” or pagoda, this is a structure that is usually comprised of two, three, five, or more storeys. It is where relics,
scriptures, and other temple treasures are kept and preserved.
Shoro – A temple’s belltower.
Nara temple
Kinkakuji Temple (The Golden Pavilion)
Top Japanese Temples
Todaiji Temple
Probably the most popular attraction of the city of Nara, Todaiji is an 8th century temple that is considered to be one of Japan’s most important
temples. It is best known for being home to the largest wooden building in the world — the Daibutsuden, or the temple’s main hall. It also is
where one of the largest bronze Buddha statues in Japan is enshrined.
Kiyomizudera Temple
Built on a forested, hilly area in the eastern portion of Kyoto in 780, the Kiyomizudera is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that offers scenic
views of the nature, with maple and cherry trees that provide amazing colours during spring and autumn.
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