What other travelers are saying about Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)
Beautiful architecture with striking gold features, set against the backdrop of a serene pond—truly picturesque.
The tour felt somewhat commercial, with a strong focus on directing tourists through nearby shops, which detracted slightly from the cultural experience, but was still acceptable overall.
It would have been wonderful to see the interior of the building as well.
We recently stopped in Japan on one of our trips to Korea to visit my wife’s family. From Tokyo, we booked a tour on the bullet train to Kyoto. One of the main places we visited on the tour was the Gold Pavilion. It was just beautiful to see. Well maintained and very peaceful. Not too busy on the day we visited which was good for us.
A definite must see!
Absolutely gorgeous! And so tranquil. It’s a small place , you take a route in and it leads you out. There’s a souvenir shop and multiple stands selling food and souvenirs. Plenty of bathrooms and vending machines. 500 ¥ pp. Taxi stand right across the street. FYI there is a Silver Pavilion about 25 min cab ride away - that one is lovely too , though the building itself is not leafed in silver as we thought - but the little street leading up to the entrance is lined with SO many great shops and cafes and ice cream stands. There’s also a picturesque like walkway along the creek.
A truly unique and colorful temple in Kyoto, and an absolute must visit. We visited in the early morning before the crowds came and I’m glad we did because this place gets packed quickly, especially on the weekend. Note that this gorgeous golden temple can only be admired from the outside, visitors are not allowed to enter it. Aside from admiring the golden temple, there are some short scenic walks around the area to reach other parts of the temple, but overall it’s not too large. On your way out, don’t forget to grab some matcha ice cream with gold leaf flakes!
Apart from the crowds this temple complex is great. You don't have to walk far to get some great pictures of the Golden Pavilion. The gardens are nice with a giant pond in the middle. Restrooms and vending machines located along the route. Allow an hour to take a slow walk around the track.
