Magnificent Buddhist temples, and those which embody the essence of understated architectural elegance through the elimination of almost all decorative features. Quiet and stately Shinto shrines rest amid dark green woods. Japan has them. Everywhere (even nestled in large population centers like Tokyo and Osaka!). Many date back well over 1,000 years. Shinto, an ancient, indigenous religion unique to Japan, with emphasis on ancestor worship and har mony with the natural world. Buddhism, brought in from the Asian Continent way back in the sixth century teaches spiritual enlightenment and salvation. Both continue to be prime and moving sources of inspiration, culturally and esthetically, for the Japanese even today. Putting temple structures aside, the Buddhist images enshrined therein and their gardens are splendid pieces of art. Japanese gardens are world-renowned as refined reproductions of nature's beauty all confined within a limited space. Sit on a temple veranda and let time float by while viewing the garden. The perfect way to get a way from it all. It's good when time goes by so slowly. Since ancient times, pilgrimages to shrines and temples have been a great source of leisure and the harbinger of tourism for the Japanese. Experience it for yourself.