Buddhist temples are, together with Shinto shrines, considered to be among the most numerous, famous, and important religious buildings in Japan.
The architecture and features of Shinto shrines and Buddhist temples have melted together over the centuries. There are several construction styles, most of which show (Buddhist) influences from the Asian mainland.
Images circa 1985.
Kinkakuji (Golden Pavilion) is a Zen temple in northern Kyoto, Japan whose top two floors are completely covered in gold leaf. Formally known as Rokuonji, the temple was the retirement villa of the shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu, and according to his will became a Zen temple of the Rinzai sect after his death in 1408. Image circa 1985.
Golden Pavilion Kyoto
Threatening rain-clouds over the BAPS Temple in Atlanta
Temple Under the Clouds
Colorful flowers create a contrasting foreground to the white marble BAPS temple and clouds in Atlanta
Color at BAPS Temple Atlanta
A final look at the lighted up Shiva temple in Kayavarohan as we move on ,,,,
A Temple in Color
Sculpted images at the Kayavarohan temple are lighted up in a surreal glow
Glowing Temple Sculptures
A variety of colored lights provide night decorations for Maha Shivratri at the Shiva temple in Kayavarohan
A Colorful Temple
