Why Japan’s Temples Are Going Broke — and How They’re Adapting To Survive

For a thousand years, Japan's temples and shrines have stood as symbols of tradition and faith. However, in recent years, these sacred sites have been facing financial struggles that threaten their very existence. The Tada Shrine in Kawanishi, Hyogo Prefecture, is a stark example, filing for civil rehabilitation and becoming the first shrine in the Kinki region to do so. The crisis stems from dwindling populations, fewer worshipers, and rising costs, putting traditional sources of support under severe pressure.

The number of religious corporations in Japan has dwindled from approximately 180,000 to a number that has reportedly fallen by more than 30 million over the past 17 years. Estimates suggest that by 2040, over a third of these religious organizations could face potential disappearance. Despite these challenges, temples and shrines are finding innovative ways to adapt and survive.

Tomi Nishiyama, the head priest of four temples, has introduced a shukubo—temple lodging business—where foreign tourists stay at a rate of ¥15,000 per night. This revenue, largely funded by foreign tourists, who account for about 90% of the temple's guests, has become an indispensable source of income. Nishiyama offers visitors more than just accommodations, including sutra copying and Zen meditation experiences, which help them engage in Buddhist traditions.

Meanwhile, Saieiji Temple in Osaka’s Nishiyodogawa ward has established a day-care facility for elderly people. More than half of the temple's monks have obtained caregiving qualifications, working as "monk helpers" at the facility. The temple also hosts a "Death Café," where monks facilitate discussions on death with visitors. Surprisingly, one-third of the facility's users have subsequently sought the temple's help for funeral arrangements.

Monks like Keiichi Yoshida have found that their roles in these new ventures provide reassurance to people and potentially bridge the gap between religion and secular society.

Masayuki Kimura, the head priest of Shotokuji Temple in Kakogawa, Hyogo Prefecture, has found another way to support his temple by running a "Monk Café," where he serves the temple's signature plum shaved ice. Kimura also works as a licensed acupuncturist, providing additional income sources. These diverse roles allow him to build new connections within the community and create opportunities for people to engage with Buddhism, which he believes is vital for the temple's survival.