What other travelers are saying about Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)
Also called Temple of the Golden Pavilion. It is a Zen Buddhist temple in Kyoto, Japan and a tourist attraction. It is designated as a World Heritage Site. The original Golden Pavilion is believed to have been constructed in 1399.The present pavilion structure dates from 1955, when it was rebuilt. The pavilion is three stories high, 12.5 meters (40 feet) in height. The top two stories of the pavilion are covered with pure gold leaf. Popular with tourists and locals. Lots of walking on uneven terrain. Wear comfy shoes, take water, wear hat, sunscreen. Keep an eye on your valuables. Great place for photography. Toilets available. Use public transport to get here
The overall experience was really nice! The temple was beautiful, but we weren't able to go inside 😢. It was really hot though, so make sure you bring a fan, a hat, or some cooling item, especially if you go in the summer. There was also a bunch of greenery, which is nice if you are an outdoor person.
Iconic, world renowned. Gorgeous. What is there to say? I do think it’s probably nicer in winter than in summer, when there is a fraction less fellow tourists. The main disappointment for me is that there is one loop path that all visitors follow, meaning you are herded along with all the others, the main picture taking spots congesting the path. There is no space to explore independently, or ability to attempt to away from the crowds.
The "golden temple" was a magnificent building. However, that was pretty much it. Gardens around it were beautiful as well but nothing special.
There were quite a lot of people as expected so it was very hard to explore and take pictures without disturbing the others.
You should absolutely visit the place if you are visiting Kyoto but prepare for crowds and don't expect too much.
I went during summer so it was extremely crowded. It still is absolutely breathtaking. The Golden Pavilion is beautiful and the entire temple grounds were so serene and filled with nature. When we walked around the path and up the hill there's a view of the top of the Golden Pavilion as well where you can see the Golden Phoenix ornament on the top.( Although I overheard a tour guide say it was a rooster so I'm not 100% sure) I definitely recommend this Buddhist temple if you are visiting the area. The plaques around the temple have information in English but any signs that don't have it translated it is very easy to open up Google Translate and take a picture to understand that area, building, or statue.
