Perched on a hillside overlooking the Kyoto basin, this ancient temple is supported by a massive wooden stage that juts out over the valley on pillars — all without a single nail. First built in 798, the present structures date from 1633 and represent the most popular expression of Buddhist faith in Japan. Below the main hall, the Otowa-no-taki waterfall streams into three channels; visitors cup the sacred waters in long-handled ladles, each stream said to grant a different wish. It's perpetually crowded, joyfully chaotic, and utterly magnificent.