Different Types of Temples

There are no specific types of temples in Japan and almost each temple built is unique.

Shrines, on the other hand, can be categorized into major groups depending on the type of kami or significant figure the shrine is built for.

Imperial Shrines are structures funded and administered by the government during the State Shinto.

Shrines built for the kami of rice are called Inari Shrines. These are easily recognizable through its komainu which are in the form of foxes instead of lion-dogs.

Dedicated to Hachiman, the kami of war, Hachiman Shrines are very popular among leading military clans while Tenjin Shrines are more popular among students preparing for an exam. The Tenjin Shrines are dedicated to the kami of Sugawara Michizan.

There are also shrines built to dedicate the deity of Mount Fuji, Princess Konohanasakuya, called Sengen Shines.

Several shrines can also be found all over Japan that are built for the founders of powerful clans or are dedicated to local kamis.