Kyoto, Kinkaku-ji

Kinkaku-ji, the Golden Pavilion, is a Buddhist temple located in Kyoto. Its two upper floors are covered in gold leaf. 

It began its life as a retirement home for Shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu, who ruled in the 15th century. After the shogun's death, it was converted into a temple. Kinkaku-ji has been destroyed and rebuilt many times throughout its history. 

Image by a kind Japanese security guard

Kyoto, Fushimi Inari-taisha

Kyoto's Fushimi Inari Shrine boasts thousands of torii gates along its mountain trails. It is one of the most popular and unique Shinto shrines in all of Japan. It was established in the 8th century and dedicated to Inari, the Shinto god of rice.

Foxes are said to be Inari's messengers.