Kinkaku-ji: The Golden Pavilion
A dazzling Zen temple in Kyoto, Kinkaku-ji (the Golden Pavilion) reflects centuries of history and serene beauty on its iconic Mirror Pond.
Kinkaku-ji, also known as the Golden Pavilion, is a Zen Buddhist temple in Kyoto, Japan, famed for its stunning gold-leaf-covered exterior. Originally built in 1397 as a retirement villa for Shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu, it was converted into a temple after his death. Reflecting beautifully on Kyoko-chi (Mirror Pond), it's a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a symbol of Kyoto's rich history.
A brief summary to Kinkaku-ji
- 1 Kinkakujicho, Kyoto, Kinkakujicho, Kita Ward, Kyoto, 603-8361, JP
- +8175-461-0013
- Visit website
Local tips
- Arrive early in the morning to avoid crowds and capture the best light for photographs.
- Purchase your ticket at the entrance gate; no advance booking is required.
- Take time to explore the gardens surrounding the pavilion, including the Sekkatei Teahouse.
- Combine your visit with nearby attractions like Ryoan-ji Temple and Ninnaji Temple, both within walking distance.
- Note that tripods and gimbals are not permitted due to crowds.
Getting There
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Public Transport
From Kyoto Station, take Kyoto City Bus #101 or #205 (from stands B2 and B3 respectively) directly to Kinkaku-ji. The journey takes approximately 40 minutes and costs ¥230. Be careful not to board the 'Rapid #205' bus, as it does not stop at Kinkaku-ji. Alternatively, take the Karasuma Subway Line to Kitaoji Station (15 minutes, ¥260) and then transfer to bus #204 or #205 (10 minutes, ¥230) from the Kitaoji Bus Terminal. Buses to Kinkaku-ji depart from the Blue Bus Stop at the terminal.
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Taxi
From Kitaoji Station (subway), a taxi to Kinkaku-ji takes about 10 minutes and costs approximately ¥1500. From Kyoto Station, a taxi ride will be considerably longer and more expensive. During peak hours, traffic may cause delays.
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Walking
Kinkaku-ji is a short walk north from Hirano Shrine and Waratenjin Shrines. From Ryoan-ji Temple, it's approximately a 15-minute walk. From Kitaoji Station (subway), it is about a 2-mile (3.1 km) walk.
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Parking
If driving, parking is available near Kinkaku-ji. Parking fees are approximately ¥400 per hour for passenger cars. Note that parking is available from 8:40 a.m. to 5:10 p.m.. Several parking lots are in the vicinity, including Kinkakuji Mae Parking.
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