Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Best
Temples & Shrines
Tokyo is home to countless Buddhist temples and Shintō shrines, honouring
Japan's two entwined religions. The grounds are free to enter and open to all - so
long as the gate is open. The grandest ones are simply stunning, but just as en-
chanting are the tiny temples and shrines tucked among buildings that you're
likely to stumble upon as you explore the city.
Visiting Etiquette
Shrines and temples don't have strict rules (there are no dress codes, for example).
However, there are some prescribed manners. Since the
torii
gates in front of a
Shintō shrine indicate the entrance to sacred space, you'll often see Japanese visit-
ors bowing upon entering and exiting. Before approaching the main shrine, it is
customary to wash your hands at the font, since Shintō prizes purity.
Temples often have a slightly raised threshold, which you should step over - not
on. Taking pictures on the grounds is fine, but many temples do not want you tak-
ing photos - especially flash photos - of the inside.
Top Tips
›
Temples and shrines host festivals throughout the year. For event listings, see
Go
Tokyo
(
www.gotokyo.org/en/index.html
).
›
It is customary to make a small offering at both temples and shrines. Fortunately for
budget travelers, a five yen coin is considered the luckiest (10 yen coins are unlucky).
Best Temples
Sensō-ji
Beloved symbol of Tokyo for centuries. (
Click here
)
Zōjō-ji
A sprawling temple, home to the tombs of former shōguns. (
Click here
)
