Major Japanese Sightseeing Spots Currently Under Renovation
There are currently several major sightseeing spots and tourist attractions in Japan that are under renovation. Japan has an almost endless list of must-see destinations and attractions ranging from UNESCO World Heritage temples, shrines, and castles to Zen gardens and hot springs.
It always pays to do a little bit of research before you visit any sightseeing spot in Japan to confirm it is open to the public as well as not covered up in scaffolding. Some of these sights are thousands of years old after all, and need a little tender loving care from time to time.
Check out our list of sightseeing spots in Japan that are currently under renovation, so you are not disappointed on your next trip.
Itsukushima Shrine in Hiroshima
The famous floating torii shrine gate of Itsukushima Shrine on the sacred island of Miyajima in Hiroshima is currently partially covered up in scaffolding. Renovations commenced in June 2019, and are expected to last for around one year.
Toshogu Shrine in Nikko
Toshogu Shrine in Nikko, Tochigi Prefecture in the Kanto region of Japan is the final resting place of shogun, Tokugawa Ieyasu, who founded the Tokugawa Shogunate that ruled Japan for over 250 years. The stunning shrine is being renovated in stages from 2007 until March 2024. The renovation of the Yomeimon main gate was completed in March 2017, so it is still worth a visit.
Kumamoto Castle in Kumamoto
Kumamoto Castle in the Kyushu region of southern Japan is one of the premier historic feudal castles in Japan. Unfortunately, the castle suffered serious damage during earthquakes in April 2016. The interior of the castle’s main keep is scheduled to be reopened in spring 2021.
Enryakuji Temple in Kyoto
Enryakuji Temple (Hieizan) is a stunning monastery complex located on Mount Hiei in Otsu, Shiga Prefecture, overlooking Kyoto. The main hall at Enryakuji Temple is currently covered by scaffolding and is undergoing renovations for about 10 years, which started in 2016. The main hall remains open and it is possible to enter the historic building.
Dogo Onsen in Matsuyama
Dogo Onsen in Matsuyama City, Ehime Prefecture is one of the oldest and most famous onsen (hot springs) in all of Japan. Located on the island of Shikoku , the main building (honkan) has been undergoing renovation since January 2019, with parts of the bath house closed for seven years.
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John Asano is a blogger, travel writer and travel advisor living in Gifu, Japan. Originally from Melbourne, Australia, he has lived in Japan now for over 15 years. John loves nothing better than picking up his camera and exploring all the amazing sights and attractions that Japan has to offer. He writes about the must see sights and attractions in Japan at Japan Travel Advice, as well as about Japanese culture and modern life on his blog Japan Australia. You can read more of his work at http://japan-australia.blogspot.com/
