Refers to a Buddhist temple building or hall. Often used in the compound 寺院仏閣 (temples and shrines) or in formal contexts.
There are many old Buddhist temples in Kyoto.
This area is known for its many temples and shrines.
仏閣 is a literary, somewhat old-fashioned term for a grand Buddhist temple, whereas 寺 is the plain, common word.
仏閣 is a formal, literary word for a Buddhist temple used in writing, whereas お寺 is the common, polite word used in daily conversation.
Compound of 仏 (butsu, 'Buddha') and 閣 (kaku, 'tower' or 'palace'), referring to a building dedicated to Buddhism.