Photography is not universally prohibited at Japanese shrines and temples. In many places, visitors are free to photograph torii gates, temple gates, gardens, the grounds, and the exterior of buildings.
However, being allowed to take photos somewhere does not mean you can photograph anything you want.
One important boundary is the interior of main shrine and temple buildings, sacred areas, religious objects, and cultural properties on special display. You may be allowed to photograph a building from outside but find that photography is prohibited once you enter. Rules differ from one shrine or temple to another, so signs such as “No Photography” or “No Flash” should always be followed.
Another major boundary involves people. Someone accidentally appearing in the background of a photo is very different from deliberately photographing a person who is standing nearby with their hands together in prayer. Even if photography is technically permitted in that area, many Japanese people would consider the latter quite inconsiderate.
People who are praying are not there to become part of someone else’s sightseeing photos. A building or garden may be open to photography, but that does not make worshippers free subjects for your camera.
There is also a difference between casually taking a photo with a smartphone and setting up a tripod, flying a drone, or arranging a professional-style shoot with models. Shrines and temples may impose separate restrictions on these activities or require advance permission.
So the important thing is not to memorize a rule such as “photography is forbidden at religious sites in Japan.” The boundary changes depending on where you are, what you are photographing, and how you are doing it.
Check the signs, and follow any instructions from priests, shrine staff, monks, or attendants. Even where photography is allowed, avoid blocking people who are praying or pointing a camera at them from close range. If you can make that distinction, there is no need to hesitate unnecessarily about taking photos at Japanese shrines and temples.
