KYOTO, Japan -- High atop the frosted summit of Kyoto's Hiei mountain, a worshiper places incense in an altar before the entrance of Enryaku-ji, guardian temple of the city. Leaving his boots by the gate, he enters the 1,200-year-old sanctuary within and kneels quietly before an altar containing wood carved statues of Buddha. The only source of light comes from an unwavering row of flames in front of the altar, a vigil that has continued for over 1,000 years. Low chanting can be heard in the flame's vicinity, but the source remains obscured in shadow. Absorbing the magic of the moment, the worshiper offers hushed supplication and rises with a purified mind. Ancient Buddhist temples like Enryaku-ji are a foundational aspect to Japanese culture. Hundreds of such holy places beautify mountains, lakes, and cities throughout the country. Unlike god-specific shrines, the temples are built to house statues of Buddha and used for the training of monks. "I feel like I am purified when I enter the temple," said Yoko Seo, Marine Corps Community Services culture specialist. "Praying to Buddah gets rid of my bad desires." According to Seo, the temples are essential in understanding the Japanese way of life. Tall gateways, hushed halls, and multi-roofed pagodas all tell a story of a worshipful and observant culture. "The building itself is built to help us keep our traditions," said Seo. One of the most fascinating aspects of traditional Japanese architecture is that metal parts, such as nails and braces, are not used. Temples have stood for more than 1,000 years due to the extremely precise joints and fittings holding them together. This is spectacularly displayed in Kyoto's Kiyomizu Temple. Built in 778, the massive main hall extends out over the edge of a cliff, supported by a latticework hundreds of feet high. From its traditional mountain slope-shaped rooftops, to the cascading waterfalls offering cleansing for those who drink, the temple enjoys harmony with its environment - a natural extension of the mountainside. According to Seo, harmony with nature is reflected in every aspect of the temple. Intricate interior carvings express traditional understanding of humanity's connection with nature. Respectful treatment of the Earth directly corresponds to an improved quality of life. "Many temples are famous for a particular plant or flower," said Seo. "There may be a garden, or plants all around. Sometimes people go to the temple just to see the plants." Seo explained that Buddhism teaches against killing any living thing. Because humans must kill to survive, balance comes by causing things to grow. Like priceless treasure, the temples bring a deep richness to the people of Japan. In view of the nation's modernization over the past century, the ancient buildings remain an integral link to its cultural and spiritual roots. "Japan is not as religious as it used to be," said Seo. "But the temple keeps our traditions alive."