Tenryu-ji Temple
This is the head temple of the Tenryuji sect of the RInzai school. It was founded by Ashikaga Takauji in 1339, during the early Muromachi period, in memory of Emperor Go-daigo, with Muso Kokushi (the eminent Zen master Muso Soseki) appointed as founding abbot.
You can see the north gate of Tenryu-ji Temple just by walking along the bamboo path. You can also buy tickets to enter here. The Sogen Pond Garden was designed over 700 years ago and is a famous stroll garden.
Tofukuji Temple
This is the head temple of Rinzai School. Kujo Michiie wished to have a temple for his family burial under Reverend Shoichi Kokusi’s ministry, and built seven halls during 19 years beginning in 1236.
This is the top spot in Kyoto for autumn leaves. During the season, it's packed with people. There are tons of professional photographers, each with their own serious gear.
Kitano Tenmangu Shrine
Since built in 947, this 1000-year-old edifice is the head of 12,000 Tenmangu / Tenjin shrines nationwide dedicated to Sugawara no Michizane. Tenjin worship has begun here. Locals call it Tenjin-san of Kitano or Kitano-san.
After mid-February, this is the best place to see plum blossoms. The Tenjin Market, held on the 25th of every month, is also a big event for locals in Kyoto.
Omiwa Shrine
This is the oldest shrine in Japan dedicated to the deity Ōmononushi-no-Okami, with Mount Miwa as its sacred body. There is no main shrine, and the style of worshiping Mt. Miwa through the three torii gates at the back of the worship hall conveys the original form of divine worship.
Omiwa Shrine is really unique compared to other shrines. It was my first time seeing a rope torii gate without a crossbeam—super interesting!
Kinpusenji Temple
The symbol of Mt. Yoshino in Nara and the head temple for mountaineering asceticism, which is a religion based on Japan’s ancient nature worship, mixed with Buddhism, Daoism and Onmyodo.
We took the cable car up from Yoshino Station, and the cherry blossoms were in full bloom on both sides. Everyone was amazed and couldn't stop exclaiming!