Religious site
Rinnō-ji
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Rinnō-ji is a prominent Tendai Buddhist temple complex and part of the UNESCO World Heritage site in Nikko. Its centerpiece is the Sanbutsudō hall, which contains three enormous, gold-leafed statues of the Buddha Amida, Kannon, and Yakushi. The temple grounds also include a beautiful Japanese garden, a five-story pagoda, and the Treasure House with religious artifacts. Visitors can experience the tranquility of Buddhist worship and admire the scale and artistry of the statues, which date from the 17th century.
Don't miss
- View the three giant golden statues in the Sanbutsudō hall, each over 8 meters tall.
- Stroll through the serene Shōyō-en Japanese garden, designed for meditation.
- See the five-story pagoda, a symbol of Nikko's religious harmony.
Tickets & tours
Ways to visit Rinnō-ji
You can usually visit on your own. A tour is worth it for transport, a guide, or combining nearby sights into one day.
Cheapest way inTokyo: Meiji Shrine and Shinto Culture Walking Tour5★ · 447 travelers~2 hoursFree cancellationFrom$20 per personSee dates →
Best full dayNikko, Kegon Waterfall & Chuzenji Lake from Tokyo4.8★ · 1,678 travelers~11 hoursFree cancellationFrom$109 per personSee dates →
Private & flexiblePrivate Tea Ceremony & Kimono Experience in Nikko5★ · 16 travelers~2 hoursFree cancellationFrom$63 per personSee dates →More attractions in Nikko