What is the Difference Between Temple and Shrine?

The main difference between a temple and a shrine lies in the religious traditions they serve. Temples are built to serve the Buddhist religious tradition, while shrines are built to serve the Shinto religious tradition. Here are some key differences between the two:

• Entrance: Shrines are characterized by a torii gate at the entrance, while temples are characterized by a sanmon gate at the entrance.
• Deities and Objects: Temples typically enshrine Buddhist statues, while shrines enshrine sacred objects or beings called kami.
• Worship Practices: In temples, visitors may participate in Buddhist worship, study, and various ceremonies. In shrines, visitors may participate in Shinto rituals and ceremonies related to life stages, family or personal prosperity.
• Structures: Shrines are usually built in places considered to have spiritual significance and enshrine kami in objects such as mirrors, jewels, swords, rocks, trees, or mountains. Temples, on the other hand, are set up for Buddhist worship and study, and often serve as monasteries for monks and nuns.
• Cultural Significance: While both Shinto and Buddhist institutions are common in Japan, shrines and temples play different roles in the cultural and religious life of the Japanese people.

Comparative Table: Temple vs Shrine

Here is a table comparing the differences between temples and shrines:

Shrines and temples are both places of worship in Japan, but they serve different purposes and have distinct features. Shrines are dedicated to the Shinto religion and worship kami, or gods, while temples are dedicated to Buddhism and worship Buddha or commune with ancestors. The entrance to a shrine is marked by a torii gate, while a Buddhist temple has a sanmon entrance. Shrines are typically guarded by komainu statues, while temples have nio guardians. The roofs of shrines feature chigi and katsuogi, while temple roofs have a hoju ornament. Both shrines and temples have areas for cleansing and accepting offerings.