Kinkaku-ji: The Golden Pavilion

4.5 (52603)

A shimmering Zen temple in Kyoto, the Golden Pavilion reflects centuries of history and exquisite Japanese garden design. A UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Home
Japan
Kai
Kinkaku-ji

Kinkaku-ji, also known as the Golden Pavilion, is a Zen Buddhist temple in Kyoto, Japan, famed for its top two floors being completely covered in gold leaf. Originally built in 1397 as a retirement villa for shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu, it was converted into a temple after his death and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

A brief summary to Kinkaku-ji

1 Kinkakujicho, Kyoto, Kinkakujicho, Kita Ward, Kyoto, 603-8361, JP
Click to display
Click to display

Monday 9 am-5 pm
Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
Thursday 9 am-5 pm
Friday 9 am-5 pm
Saturday 9 am-5 pm
Sunday 9 am-5 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Kinkaku-ji.

Arrive early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid the largest crowds and to experience the temple in a more peaceful setting.
Take time to stroll through the gardens surrounding Kinkaku-ji, as they offer different perspectives of the pavilion and showcase Japanese landscape design.
Visit during different seasons to witness the temple's beauty in varying landscapes, such as the red foliage of autumn or the snow-covered scenery of winter.
Purchase your ticket at the entrance upon arrival.

Do you manage this location?

Take control to get all the benefits, like improved information, better appearance, and stronger visibility across AI-powered discovery. Learn more

Activate your presence

Other nearby places you may find interesting

Ryōan-ji

Ryōan-ji: A Zen Garden of Enigmatic Beauty

Daisen-in Temple

Daisen-in Temple: A Serene Sanctuary in Kyoto

Kamogawa Park

Kamogawa Park: Kyoto's Serene Riverside Escape

Getting There

Public Transport

From Kyoto Station, take Kyoto City Bus number 101, 102, 204, or 205 to the Kinkakuji-michi bus stop. The ride takes approximately 40 minutes and costs ¥230. From the bus stop, it is a short walk to the temple entrance. Alternatively, take the Karasuma Subway Line to Kitaoji Station (15 minutes, ¥260) and then a bus (number 204 or 205, 10 minutes, ¥230) or taxi (10 minutes, approximately ¥1500) to Kinkaku-ji.
Walking

From Kitanohakubaicho Station, Kinkaku-ji Temple is approximately a 10-minute walk. Exit the station and follow the signs towards Kinkaku-ji. The route is straightforward and passes through local streets. Note that the walk is about 2 miles (3.1 km) from Kitaōji Station, which takes about 40 minutes.

Discover more about Kinkaku-ji

Kinkaku-ji, officially named Rokuon-ji (Deer Garden Temple), is a Zen Buddhist temple in Kyoto, Japan, renowned worldwide as the Golden Pavilion. Its history dates back to 1397 when it was established as the retirement villa of Shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu. Following his death in 1408, it was converted into a Zen temple, fulfilling Yoshimitsu's wishes.The pavilion's architecture is a sight to behold, with each of its three stories built in a different style. The first floor, in Shinden style, reflects Heian-era palace architecture, featuring natural wood pillars and white plaster walls. The second floor, built in Bukke style, is reminiscent of samurai residences. The third and uppermost floor is designed in the style of a Chinese Zen Hall and is gilded inside and out. The top two stories are covered in gold leaf. A bronze phoenix adorns the roof.Kinkaku-ji has faced numerous challenges throughout its history, including being burned down several times. The most recent destruction occurred in 1950 when a monk set fire to the pavilion; the current structure was rebuilt in 1955. The temple is set in a Japanese strolling garden, featuring the Mirror Pond (Kyōko-chi) that reflects the building. The gardens exemplify Muromachi Period landscape design, with winding paths offering shifting perspectives.Visitors can stroll through the gardens, admire the architecture, and experience the serene atmosphere. Although access inside the pavilion is not permitted, statues of Buddha and Yoshimitsu can be viewed from across the pond. Other features include a teahouse and a small temple dedicated to Fudo Myo-o.