TOKYO GUIDE | VISITING SHRINES AND TEMPLES IN TOKYO
When you’re wandering the streets of Tokyo, it’s hard not to bump into a shrine or a temple. In fact, this is the case for almost every city/village/town in Japan. It is estimated that there are roughly 75,000-80,000 registered shrines and temples in Japan. While Kyoto is famous for having a high concentration of some of the most well known shrines and temples, Tokyo is definitely a contender in this category. Sure, it’s nice to explore Japan’s famous nightlife scenery and have an unforgettable night out at karaokes and bar hopping, but don’t forget to take some time to explore the traditional side of Japan through their shrines and temples.
What many tourists might not know is that there is a difference between shrines and temples in Japan. The key difference is that a shrine is for the religion of Shintoism, while a temple is for Buddhism. There are also contrasts in structural differences and manners where you can read about it here.
In your short visit to Tokyo, it can be daunting on deciding which shrine and temple to visit. There are over thousands of temples and shrines in Tokyo alone! For starters, the Meiji Shrine and the Sensoji Temple are arguably one of the most famous and popular ones. Check out some other must see temples and shrines in Tokyo on this compiled list of breathtaking shrines/temples in Tokyo.
Tokyo Guide: The Sensoji Temples Pagoda with the Sky Tree in the background.