Nikko Toshogu

An autumn phenomenon observed throughout Japan from late September to November. Leaves of maple and other trees transform into vivid colors, with Kyoto's autumn foliage particularly famous worldwide. Known as kouyou-gari (autumn foliage viewing) culture, it attracts tens of millions of tourists. It represents Japan's characteristic seasonal changes.

A national park in Nikko, Tochigi Prefecture. Centered on Nikko Toshogu, it blends natural scenery with historic structures. Famous for autumn foliage and spring growth, it is also popular for trekking. Attracting over 7 million visitors annually, it represents Tochigi Prefecture tourism.

One of Japan's oldest shrines, visited by worshippers from across the country as the deity of matchmaking. Distinctive for its massive shimenawa rope and unique two-bow, four-clap, one-bow prayer etiquette, it is believed that all the gods of Japan gather here in the tenth lunar month.

The head shrine of Inari worship located in Fushimi, Kyoto. Distinctive for its thousands of vermillion torii gates covering the mountainside, creating a tunnel-like path. Revered as the deity of commerce and prosperity, it attracts approximately 2.7 million visitors annually. Serves as the chief shrine for about 30,000 Inari shrines throughout Japan.

A shrine in Shibuya, Tokyo, enshrining Emperor Meiji, founded in 1920. Located in virgin forest, offering a sacred space removed from urban hustle. Approximately 3 million visitors annually, one of Japan's most important shrines. Highest number of New Year visitors in Japan.

A shrine in Shibuya Ward, Tokyo, dedicated to Emperor Meiji. Established in 1920, it is surrounded by approximately 700,000 trees—the largest forest within an urban area. With approximately 3 million annual visitors and Japan's highest New Year shrine visits, it symbolizes modern Japan. It exemplifies the fusion of nature conservation and tradition within an urban environment.

An ancient shrine in Izumo, Shimane Prefecture dedicated to Okuninushi. Recorded in Japan's oldest historical text, the Kojiki. Features distinctive shrine architecture among Japan's largest. Particularly crowded during 'Kamiari month' (old calendar October) when deities from all over Japan gather. Attracts approximately 6 million visitors annually.

World-famous for its 'Senbon Torii' — roughly 10,000 vermillion torii gates forming a tunnel up the mountain. As the head shrine of Inari worship with over 1,300 years of history, it is one of Japan's most popular destinations for international visitors.