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Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)

Name: Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)
Address: 1 Kinkakujichō, Kita Ward, Kyoto, 603-8361, Japan
Rating: 4.5

4.5 (200)・Tourist Attraction・Place Of Worship・Point Of Interest・Establishment

Kinkaku-ji, known as the Golden Pavilion, is a famous Zen Buddhist temple in Kyoto. Originally built in 1397 as a retirement villa for shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu, it was later converted into a temple by his son. The structure is remarkable for its top two floors, which are covered in gold leaf, reflecting beautifully on the pond below.

The pavilion is part of a larger complex that includes beautiful gardens and a serene pond called Kyoko-chi (Mirror Pond). The garden design is typical of the Muromachi period, focusing on the harmony between structures and the natural surroundings. Visitors often admire the way the pavilion and its reflection seem to blend seamlessly with the landscape.

Kinkaku-ji has faced several challenges over the centuries, including being burned down multiple times, most recently in 1950 by a novice monk. Each time, it has been meticulously rebuilt to maintain its original splendor. Today, it remains one of Japan's most iconic landmarks, attracting visitors from all over the world who come to marvel at its beauty and tranquility.

Hours:

9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Closed:

No closing days

Available:

All Year

Minimum Age:

All ages are welcome

Admission Fee:

500 yen (Adults)

300 yen (Student: Grade 1 - 9)

Hours

Monday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Thursday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Friday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Saturday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Sunday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Phone

+81 75-461-0013

Website

www.shokoku-ji.jp

The area

Address

1 Kinkakujichō, Kita Ward, Kyoto, 603-8361, Japan

Top ways to experience Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)

1 day

Kyoto and Nara 1-Day Bus Tour (Round-trip from Kyoto)

From $144 /person

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Explore Kyoto Your Way: An Exclusive Customizable Walking Tour

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Full-Day Private Guided Tour to Kyoto City

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What other travelers are saying about Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)

This is definitely a very popular tourist spot; there were line since 8:30AM in the morning, and multiple group tours, including school kids, about 8:45AM. However, the line did move really fast once the gate open at 9AM. It's not a weekend day but it's already very crowded. All the spots that can give a good selfie photo were crowded with people with camera. Throughout the my visit, it's always with crowd following the one-way visiting directions.

Sylvia Lin

Nov 2, 2024

It’s one of the most famous places to visit in Kyoto and for a good reason. It’s quite accessible and the walk is very pleasant. The golden temple is also the perfect place to take photos. There is a tea house at the end of the walk and many snack and gift shops that you can check out.

Scott Lee

Oct 23, 2024

Beautiful temple in a beautiful setting. Convenient access from and to the train station, but a bit of walk to get to the main temple gate. It was super crowded and hot when we went through but nevertheless an enjoyable experience. There are vending machines and washrooms at the entry and exit. The goshoin writing is behind the vending machine area before you go down the staircase.

Viroop Narla

Oct 21, 2024

The most unique temple that I have ever come across and it's stunning in person as well! It seemed slightly smaller than in the pictures but that didn't matter when you got up close to it and got all the beautiful angles! The gold colour is really vibrant and it's definitely a must visit! NOTE: The tickets were about 500 YEN and we bought them at the gate.

Waleed

Sep 18, 2024

This is a great little park. The main temple is extremely beautiful and you can get pretty close to it, which is nice. There are some nice paths to walk along and the atmosphere is very peaceful. I would definitely come back if I visit Kyoto again.