“I want to visit spectacular spots in Japan recognized by the world.”
“Where are the temples highly rated by Michelin that are popular with international tourists?”
Are you asking yourself these questions while planning your trip?
When people hear “Michelin,” they often think of restaurants. However, the prestigious French guide also publishes the Michelin Green Guide Japan, a travel guide for sightseeing. In this guide, spots rated with the highest rank of “three stars” are defined as places “worth a special journey.” These locations are must-visit landmarks, especially for travelers seeking the best of Japan. Among these, Japanese temples are particularly highly acclaimed for their historical background and architectural beauty.
In this article, we have selected 5 absolute must-visit Japanese temples from the locations awarded three stars in the Michelin Green Guide Japan.
We will explain the charm of these beautiful landscapes that captivate the world and the serene spaces they offer, so please use this as a reference for your next destination.
- What is the Michelin Green Guide Japan 3-Star Rating? Criteria and Appeal
- [Selected] 5 Michelin Green Guide Japan 3-Star Temples
- 1. Kiyomizu-dera (Kyoto) | Spectacular Views of the Ancient Capital from the Cliff Stage
- 2. Todai-ji (Nara) | The Power of the World’s Largest Wooden Structure and the Great Buddha
- 3. Koyasan (Wakayama) | Lodging and Buddhist Vegetarian Cuisine in a Sanctuary in the Sky
- 4. Chuson-ji (Iwate) | The Radiance of the “Golden Hall,” the Pinnacle of Golden Culture
- 5. Zenko-ji (Nagano) | A Base of Faith to Visit Once in a Lifetime
- Tourism Points to Enjoy Three-Star Temples More Deeply
- Summary
- A Message from the Guide
What is the Michelin Green Guide Japan 3-Star Rating? Criteria and Appeal
When hearing about a guide published by the French tire company Michelin, many immediately think of restaurant rankings. However, the Michelin Green Guide is designed to introduce tourist attractions and scenic spots to travelers. The Japanese edition, Michelin Green Guide Japan, has become a bible for international tourists visiting the country. Here, we unravel the meaning of the highest three-star rating and why Japanese temples are attracting so much attention.
Proof of the Highest Rank: “Worth a Special Journey”
The Michelin Green Guide rates the appeal of tourist spots using a three-star system. One star means “interesting,” two stars mean “worth a detour,” and the highest rank, three stars, is defined as “worth a special journey.” In other words, these are spots with such overwhelming appeal that they are worth traveling specifically just to visit them.
The criteria for evaluation are diverse, considering not only beauty and fame but also the quality of tourist reception and cultural significance. Therefore, places selected as Michelin Green Guide Japan three-star spots promise a first-class tourism experience by global standards.
Why Japanese Temples are Highly Rated Worldwide
Japanese temples are evaluated not just as religious facilities but as comprehensive arts that beautifully blend architecture, fine arts, gardens, and harmony with nature. From the perspective of international tourists, the delicate techniques of wooden architecture and the beauty of gardens that borrow landscapes from the changing seasons convey a unique Japanese spirituality found nowhere else.
Furthermore, the quiet spaces preserved over long history are gathering strong interest as places to calm the mind away from the hustle and bustle of modern life. Michelin evaluators highly value this unique atmosphere and historical depth, awarding stars to many temples.
[Selected] 5 Michelin Green Guide Japan 3-Star Temples
Here, we introduce five temples you should visit among the many three-star spots. All of them are famous temples representing Japan, offering moving experiences that can only be found there.
1. Kiyomizu-dera (Kyoto) | Spectacular Views of the Ancient Capital from the Cliff Stage
Kiyomizu-dera, synonymous with Kyoto tourism, continues to attract people from both Japan and abroad. The greatest highlight is undoubtedly the Main Hall, known as the “Stage of Kiyomizu.” The massive wooden structure, built using a traditional method called kake-zukuri without a single nail, is a masterpiece. The view of the Kyoto cityscape looking down from there is breathtakingly beautiful.
The scenery that changes expressions with the seasons—cherry blossoms in spring and red leaves in autumn—is also a point highly rated by Michelin. This place, which seems to condense the atmosphere of the ancient capital of Kyoto, offers new discoveries and emotions no matter how many times you visit.
2. Todai-ji (Nara) | The Power of the World’s Largest Wooden Structure and the Great Buddha
Located within Nara Park, Todai-ji overwhelms visitors with its massive scale. When you step into the Great Buddha Hall, which is one of the world’s largest wooden buildings, the principal image, the “Great Buddha of Nara,” sits quietly at a height of about 15 meters. Its majestic figure inspires a deep sense of awe in those who see it.
Additionally, many deer roam freely in the precincts where historic buildings and nature harmonize, creating a peaceful and calm time. Todai-ji, which gathers the essence of Japanese Buddhist culture, is truly a magnificent space “worth a special journey.”
3. Koyasan (Wakayama) | Lodging and Buddhist Vegetarian Cuisine in a Sanctuary in the Sky
Koyasan (Mount Koya) is a sacred site of Japanese Buddhism opened by Kobo Daishi Kukai. This religious city spreading in a basin at an altitude of about 800 meters is wrapped in a mysterious atmosphere throughout the area. In particular, the approach to Okunoin, leading to Kukai’s mausoleum, is lined with cedar trees over several hundred years old and countless tombstones, drifting with a solemn atmosphere not felt elsewhere.
The charm of Koyasan lies in the fact that you can “experience” it, not just sightsee. Many temples accept guests as shukubo (temple lodgings), allowing you to experience sutra copying, morning services, and traditional shojin ryori (Buddhist vegetarian cuisine). The Michelin Green Guide highly evaluates this unique cultural experience.
4. Chuson-ji (Iwate) | The Radiance of the “Golden Hall,” the Pinnacle of Golden Culture
Chuson-ji in Hiraizumi, Iwate Prefecture, is a symbol of the golden culture built by the Oshu Fujiwara clan in the late Heian period. The highlight is the National Treasure “Konjikido” (Golden Hall). The appearance, decorated with gold leaf inside and out and adorned with mother-of-pearl inlays and lacquer work, conveys the prayers and aesthetic sense of the people of that time who tried to embody the Pure Land in this world.
Walking along the approach “Tsukimizaka” surrounded by rich nature, you can feel the weight of history in the silence. Chuson-ji, which shows the pinnacle of Buddhist culture in the Tohoku region, is a famous place worthy of three stars in terms of both beauty and historical value.
5. Zenko-ji (Nagano) | A Base of Faith to Visit Once in a Lifetime
“Visit Zenko-ji once, no matter how far,” is an old saying. Zenko-ji has widely accepted all people as a non-denominational temple that does not belong to any specific sect. The Main Hall, designated as a National Treasure, is one of the largest wooden structures in eastern Japan, and its imposing appearance is a masterpiece.
The “Okaidan-meguri,” where you walk under the floor of the Main Hall to connect with the principal image in total darkness, is a special experience unique to Zenko-ji. This ritual, where it is said you can be reborn by touching the “Key to Paradise” while groping through a pitch-black corridor, brings a deep spiritual experience to visitors.
Tourism Points to Enjoy Three-Star Temples More Deeply
Temples selected as Michelin Green Guide Japan three-stars are highly popular and can be crowded with many tourists depending on the season. To make your experience on-site more fulfilling, here are some points you should know.
Best Time to Avoid Crowds and Enjoy Silence
To taste the original silence and sacred atmosphere at popular three-star temples, visiting early in the morning is highly recommended. In the morning hours before many tourists and group tours arrive, the precincts are wrapped in clear air, allowing you to slowly appreciate the architecture and gardens. Depending on the temple, you may be able to participate in the morning service, enabling a deeper cultural experience.
“Goshuin” Collection and Manners for Memorable Trips
One of the enjoyments of visiting temples that has taken root is the Goshuin (red seal). The beauty of the design and calligraphy of each temple serves as a wonderful record of your trip. However, a Goshuin is not merely a stamp rally but a sacred item received as proof of worship. Please follow basic manners, such as always praying at the main hall before heading to the reception office and waiting quietly. Treating the process with respect can sometimes lead to warm interactions with the temple staff.
Summary
The temples certified as Michelin Green Guide Japan three-star spots are not just beautiful places; they are special locations where you can deeply feel Japan’s history, culture, and spirituality. Kiyomizu-dera, Todai-ji, Koyasan, Chuson-ji, and Zenko-ji each possess distinct personalities and stories.
Actually visiting these world-recognized places and feeling the atmosphere and impact with your own skin will surely become a precious experience that remains in your heart. for your next trip, please make these three-star temples your destination and encounter the scenery that Japan boasts is “worth a special journey.”
A Message from the Guide
Learning about the temple before you go will make your visit twice as enjoyable. Please make full use of our blog!
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