10 Iconic Japanese Buildings That Showcase Japanese Architecture

20 March 2025

Japan is a land where ancient tradition meets cutting-edge innovation, and its monuments reflect this incredible balance. From the serene beauty of Kyoto’s historic temples to the futuristic skyline of Tokyo, here are 10 Iconic Japanese Buildings That Showcase Japanese Architecture.

Golden Pavilion of Kyoto | Kyoto

The incredible Golden Pavilion, or Kinkaku-ji in Japanese, is one of Japan’s most popular tourist attractions. The ” imperial temple of the deer garden ” is located in Kyoto, on the island of Honshū. Nestled at the foot of the mountains, it is a pilgrimage site for thousands of Buddhist visitors each year, as well as tourists from around the world. A visit includes a tour of the architecture of the golden-walled pavilion and the Kinkaku-ji gardens. The site is remarkably well-preserved, despite having been destroyed by fire and rebuilt several times. It has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1994.

Guided tour from €73 See the best available rates

Osaka Castle | Osaka

Located in the heart of the city of the same name, Osaka Castle is one of the top attractions in the Japanese archipelago. While its majestic architecture is matched only by the longevity of its eventful history, the building is now appreciated for its particularly bucolic setting, conducive to relaxation. Visitors will first enjoy a studious visit, combined with a dive into Japanese history with a museum well-stocked with historical pieces. Meanwhile, exploring the vast park that adjoins it is always an unforgettable moment, especially if it takes place in spring, during cherry blossom season.

Osaka Castle Walking Tour €21 See the best available rates

Fushimi Inari Taisha | Kyoto

Japan is a spiritually diverse land, home to several religions that have influenced each other for centuries. Among the religions practiced in the Japanese archipelago, Shintoism is probably the one that most characterizes the Japanese, as it was born on their soil. To discover this facet of Japan, a visit to the Fushimi Inari-taisha temple is a must. In addition to the remarkably well-preserved temple, there is a unique trail that travelers can explore in the shadow of the torii; these sacred red gates.

Ginkaku-ji – Silver Pavilion | Kyoto

The Silver Pavilion, or Ginkaku-ji, in Kyoto, is a Muromachi-era Buddhist temple renowned for its wabi-sabi architecture and landscaped gardens. Among these, the dry garden symbolizes Mount Fuji, while the moss garden invites meditation. Located near the Philosopher’s Path, it is a prime starting point for a scenic stroll. This site blends history, spirituality, and natural beauty, offering a peaceful and enriching visit.

Umeda Sky Building | Osaka

Located in the heart of Osaka City, the Umeda Sky Building is a gigantic skyscraper that stands 173 meters tall. Comprised of two twin forty-story towers, connected by an atrium bridge, this building offers visitors breathtaking views of the Kansai city. As such, it is visited by many tourists as well as locals who use its unique setting to, for example, conduct truly unforgettable marriage proposals.

Tokyo Tower | Tokyo

Built in 1957 by Tachu Naito, the Tokyo Tower is a replica of the Eiffel Tower, rising to 333 meters, 7 meters higher than the original. Designed to withstand earthquakes and painted orange and white for aviation safety, it lights up seasonally. It has two observatories (145 and 250 m) and houses a Shinto shrine. At its base, the Foot Town Center offers an aquarium, restaurants, and a One Piece-themed park, symbolizing the reconstruction of Japan.

Tickets to the tower observatory from €9 See the best available rates

Tokyo Skytree Tower | Tokyo

Tokyo Skytree, Japan’s tallest tower (634 m), towers over Tokyo with its observation decks at 350 and 450 meters, offering spectacular views. Designed to withstand earthquakes and financed by Tobu and NHK, this telecommunications tower is integrated into the “Sora Machi” shopping complex, which houses a planetarium, an aquarium, and 300 shops. Opened in 2012, it symbolizes the post-2011 earthquake revival and embodies the balance between modernity and tradition in the Japanese capital.

Entrance ticket from €12 See the best available rates

Heijō Palace | Nara

The Heijō Palace in Nara was the center of Japanese imperial power in the 8th century. Today, some structures, such as the Great Audience Hall, have been reconstructed, offering a glimpse into the past. The site includes a museum displaying historical artifacts and a vast archaeological park ideal for a stroll. Blending history and nature, it’s a pleasant place to understand Nara’s role in Japanese history while enjoying a serene setting.

Itsukushima Shrine | Hatsukaichi

Located on Miyajima Island, Itsukushima Shrine is famous for its floating torii gate, which appears to emerge from the sea at high tide. This 12th-century Shinto site sits on stilts and boasts exquisite architecture. In addition to the shrine, the island offers hiking to Mount Misen, a visit to Daishō-in Temple, and local specialties. Accessible by ferry from Hiroshima, it’s a popular excursion for its natural and spiritual setting.

Meiji Jingu Temple | Tokyo

Meiji Jingu Shrine, located in Tokyo’s Shibuya Forest, is a place of peace and spirituality dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken. Surrounded by gardens and over 100,000 trees, it offers traditional Shinto rituals and a space for prayer and worship. With its museum and ceremonies, the shrine embodies Japanese tradition and history, creating a haven of peace in the heart of the city.