SANBAGAWA, Gunma Prefecture--Benmou Suzuki’s dilapidated 420-year-old temple, located deep in the forest near a tiny Japanese mountain village, hardly looks like prized real estate. Yet the monk ...

Note that Todaiji Temple is less strict than other shrines and temples in Japan. Visitors can photograph ... says she makes a point to stay the night when visiting. "Experiencing Nara almost ...

On certain holidays, the temple hosts special night hours. For ordinary visiting hours, admission is 400 yen (about $3.50). Ask about the special tour given in English for international visitors.

If you don't want to share space with throngs of tourists, visitors suggest coming early morning or late at night. The Senso-ji Temple is easily accessed via the Asakusa station. Although the ...