If you are in Japan in autumn or spring, I recommend looking into special nighttime illumination events that temples and shrines may put on. They use strategically placed lights to illuminate the entire complex in a way that is very beautiful. I made the spontaneous decision to go to Kiyomizu-Dera one night, and Toji Temple the next night and wanted to share the pictures I took. 🙂
1) Kiyomizu-Dera (They shoot a searchlight into the sky for the picture)
2) Pagoda at Kiyomizu-Dera
3) Pagoda at Toji Temple
4) Building at Toji Temple
5) Pagoda reflected off pond and surrounding garden, Toji Temple
6) One more building at Toji Temple
by BradleyMJang