Sanjusangen-do

Built during the 12th century for emperor-turned-monk Go-Shirakawa, Sanjusangen-do has several claims to fame. The 120m-long main hall is the longest wooden building in Japan; it was the site of one of the most famous duels of Musashi Miyamoto, the legendary Japanese swordsman; and each January it plays host to an archery contest. But when you step inside that long hall, you’ll see why this is such a popular temple. A breathtaking 1,000 golden statues of the Bodhisattva Kannon stand in orderly rows, facing their visitors to offer them protection. In the centre sits a 3m-tall Kannon, the work of an 82-year-old master sculptor, Tankei, back in 1254. Photography is prohibited.