Kinkaku-ji (金閣寺), otherwise known as the ‘Golden Temple’ or the ‘Golden Pavilion’, is a famous Zen temple in Kyoto, in where the top two floors are covered in gold foil. The temple was once the retirement house of Shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu, and following his death in 1408, the villa became a Zen temple as per his will. The grandson of Yoshimitsu, built Ginkaku-ji, or the Silver Temple, on the other side of Kyoto which was inspired by Kinkaku-ji.
In modern days, Kinkaku-ji is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Kyoto, and is one of the seventeen Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto, attracting millions of visitors annually.
Kinkaku-ji has three floors which make up the temple, each adopting a different design and architectural style, with the top two floors being covered in real gold foil. Kinkaku-ji’s stunning architecture sits on the edge of a small pond, which on clear days creates a magnificent reflection in the water surface.
Due to it’s cultural significance, so only the temple staff and affluent members of society have been granted access to see the inside of the temple. Instead, visitors follow a short walking trail from the entrance to the grounds to several viewing areas around the pavilion. The most famous view is from across the pond looking towards the golden pavilion. Following the path around, you’ll find the head priests former living quarters, and the Sekkatei tea house, where visitors to purchase snacks, sweets, tea, and souvenirs
The temple has burned down numerous times in the past. During the Onin War, the temple grounds suffered severed damage, destroying most of the former Yoshimitsu residence. It was then later burned down in 1950 by a novice monk. The present day Kinkaku-ji temple structures dates from 1955.
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Top Attractions
Hours and Admission
- Hours: 9:00am - 5:00pm
- 500yen
- Average Time Spent: 15 - 30 Minutes
- Official Website
Accessing Kinkaku-ji
Kinkaku-ji can be accessed from Kyoto Station on the Kyoto City bus 101, or 205. The journey takes roughly 40 minutes, and costs 230JPY.
For a faster journey, take the Karasuma Subway Line from Kyoto Station to Kitaoji Station for 260JPY, and take a taxi from Kita-oji Station (for about 1500JPY) to Kikaku-ji.
Where to Stay
Kyoto Tower Hotel
The Kyoto Tower Hotel is a centrally located hotel in the heart of Kyoto, mere steps outside of the Kyoto Station.
Kyoto Hana Hostel
The Kyoto Hana Hostel is a Japanese guesthouse a short walk from Kyoto Station. This is a highly rated, budget friendly hotel option.
Kyoto Arashiyama Ranzan Hotel
Stunning Japanese Ryokan with traditional style rooms, and a relaxing indoor onsen, perfectly located with river views and close to nature.