With its top two stories completely coated in pure gold leaf, Kinkaku-ji gleams in the sunlight and reflects off the pond at its edge. This Zen Buddhist temple started as a villa for a powerful statesman in the 14th century, before its conversion to a temple by the family of Shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu in 1397. After a high-profile arson in 1950, the temple was rebuilt in its current form with ostentatious gold leaf coating to echo the extravagance of aristocratic culture in Yoshimitsu’s time. Look out for the different historical architectural styles represented by each floor of the temple. Plan to visit Kinkaku-ji and other customer-reviewed, writer-recommended Kyoto attractions using our Kyoto online holiday planner.
Tours to Kinkaku-ji
Kinkaku-ji reviews
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Sensationally beautiful! An absolute must. One of the highlights of our Japan trip. Thoroughly enjoyed it and the beauty of the area
Sensationally beautiful! An absolute must. One of the highlights of our Japan trip. Thoroughly enjoyed it and the beauty of the area more »
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A very relaxing, tranquil place to visit. The buildings and the surrounding gardens are fantastic. An easy stroll around the grounds with some great, tranquil scenery to absorb as you do. A fantastic.... more
A very relaxing, tranquil place to visit. The buildings and the surrounding gardens are fantastic. An easy stroll around the grounds with some great, tranquil scenery to absorb as you do. A fantastic.... more »
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One of the most famous spots in Kyoto, temple of the Golden pavilion. Actually, it’s a Buddhist temple which is covered with golden leaf giving an iconic mirror view. Usually, the area is crowded and I recommend you to go there early morning. You can enjoy a relaxing walk through the wayside. The entrance fee is 400 yen.For road direction, both English and Japanese language are indicated. Highly recommended this place for people who like traditional and historical view.
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Beautiful grounds and the Golden Temple is immaculately well kept. After walking around for bit I enjoyed a hot macha before completing my walk around the grounds. Get there early if you want to avoid the crowds...I, sadly, did not. None the less, it is more than worth enjoying the sights of this historic area.
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