What other travelers are saying about Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)
My wife and I visited this venue 20 years ago and were blessed with scaffolding and a concealed palace in the middle of renovations... But at least they had a poster of what it would look like... Fast forward that 20 years with a visit with our family and my daughter and it was spectacular for that return visit! I tend to love overcast days and this day was no exception! The lighting is soft and really let's the palace stand out... Be mindful of the other tourists and help them out for optional picture taking😁
One of the most beautiful, scenic and picturesque places I have ever visited or seen in my life. Coming here during the fall with the autumn colors was absolutely amazing and left me breathless. My one regret, I wish I had a professional grade camera for it.
The temple also offers a Goshuin stamp (and books to start your collection) for your book collection!
Waited in line for less than 5 minutes at about 3 PM on a weekday in peak autumn foliage season. Stunning structure. Garden is alright but not that special. Can’t enter the pavilion so just try to go when the sun in bright and reflecting off if it to appreciate its beauty. Not a big park; you can easily be in and out in 30 minutes. There are some tents in the back of the park selling sweets and snacks. Souvenirs are a little pricier than outside places.
The temple and its grounds were beautiful and well maintained. It will be packed, and if you want to take photos of yourself or a large group, it'll be tough to get the perfect shot. I do recommend that once you've taken your photos make sure to allow yourself to enjoy the sights and feel the reverance of the area.
What a beautiful and picturesque temple.
The downside is that if you don't get there early, the crowds are overwhelming.
We were there by 820 am and there were only a few people ahead of us, as they open at 9 am but by 845 am , bus loads of tours started showing up and in a matter of a few minutes there were large crowds of people on the luneup.
However, if you're visiting and you are not in a rush, then you can wait until it clears enough for you to take your pictures at "the spot" where the temple is across the water.
Besides the main temple, they have other smaller temples, shrines, and shops.
It's a quick one-way loop that's one way and takes you from the entrance to the exit, so take your time and get the pictures you want along the way.
I was not disappointed and would definitely return again.
Don't miss this place.
