Golden Pavilion Temple
Tourist attraction
Kinkakuji Temple, also known as the Golden Pavilion Temple, is a stunning zen temple in Kyoto, Japan. The temple is famous for its top two floors, which are completely covered in gold leaf, giving it a shining, eye-catching appearance. It's even more striking when viewed from the mirror pond. When you visit, make sure to walk around the Japanese strolling garden. The garden has small islands and different paths that offer different views of the golden pavilion. If you take a tour, you'll get to learn and appreciate the different architectural styles of each floor. The first floor is designed in the shinden style, the second floor in the bukke style, and the third floor in the Chinese zen hall style. Don’t forget to look up and admire the beautiful golden phoenix on top of the pavilion. Your experience doesn't stop at sightseeing. You can also visit the Fudo Hall to learn about and pay respects to Fudo Myoo, a guardian deity. The temple's gardens and rich history make it a top attraction in Kyoto. Don’t miss the chance to see this iconic landmark in person!
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Kinugasa Goshonouchicho, Kita Ward, Kyoto, 603-8378, Japan
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Why people love Golden Pavilion Temple
Rini **********
3 days ago
no need to queue to buy tickets. and just come according to schedule
HUANG ******
3 days ago
The light sculpture show at night is a different visual experience and enjoyment. You can also enjoy the night maples at the same time, which is a double enjoyment. Great.
1+
Siwaporn *******
3 days ago
No need to exchange tickets, just walk to the entrance. Very convenient. Inside, there are food and drinks for sale. You can sit and eat amidst the lights and sounds. It's not far to walk along the path. If you just walk and take pictures, it will take about 1 hour.
2+
Jun *********
3 days ago
What an experience! It is refreshing to visit and see the castle during night time with the illumination since most attractions are done during the day. There are also food vendors along the way where you can get some snacks and drinks.
Leung ********************
3 days ago
I am very lucky to be able to participate this time by Charles Cheung Being the leader's one-day tour 🤣 very motivated and passionate 👏 to the group very considerate 😍 and concerned 🌷 problems, and can solve for us in real time 👍🏻 a very serious, and appropriate leader 👏 in I have participated so much The most most most in the one-day tour For a satisfied leader🌺 This trip is also very surprising☺️ Being able to encounter good weather🍁 The Jinguo Temple under the sun is really beautiful🏘️ The golden shining Jinguo Temple is right in front of you☺️ It's really beautiful 🤭Charles Cheung really a very Heart D good tour guide 👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻 It was a pleasure to meet a good leader 😁 Let us have an unforgettable and beautiful memory 😊 I want to think of this time in several years experience 🥰 grateful 🌸🍁🍁🍁🍁🍁🍁🍁🍁🍁
2+
Klook User
3 days ago
Amazing gardens with beautiful lights. Really helps connect with nature. Easy to get to and reasonably priced. staff all very friendly and helpful.
CHANG ******
3 days ago
I accidentally saw it on the road. It turned out that the event ended on the 8th. I decided to go there at the last minute, so I went to Klook to buy tickets! Overall, it's okay. I think the previous Osaka Castle looked better, but this one has food stalls.
2+
Neha *****
3 days ago
To start with, both our hosts, Steven and Charles Are the sweetest and very helpful! They were very professional in creating a group in advance sharing maps, Best places to visit food to taste, etc for each location. even after the trip, they shared the best places to plan future trips in Japan. this is something I have never seen any other who is doing to make the stay so comfortable by sharing things. A big THANK YOU to both of you! the places were good, and I could enjoy the colours of fall. the time given at each location was very generous. I would definitely want to return to these places once again in future! Thank you for a wonderful day! 😇
2+
Nearby places to go
FAQs about Golden Pavilion Temple
Why is the Golden Pavilion famous?
Is Kinkakuji Temple made of real gold?
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What to know before visiting Golden Pavilion Temple
What to know before visiting Golden Pavilion Temple
Things to do in Kinkakuji Temple
Admire the Golden Pavilion
The main attraction of Kinkakuji Temple is the Golden Pavilion. While you're there, you can appreciate the different styles of each floor. Don't forget to take photos of the pavilion and its shiny reflection in the mirror pond.
Stroll Through the Temple's Gardens
Enjoy a calming walk through the temple's surrounding gardens. These gardens have winding paths, quiet ponds, and beautiful flowers that change with the seasons. The peaceful surroundings are perfect for relaxing and enjoying nature. Don't forget to visit Anmintaku Pond, known as the "lake of peace."
Visit the Fudo Hall
Discover Fudo Hall, a smaller shrine in the temple grounds dedicated to Fudo Myoo, a guardian deity. This hall is a quieter place where you can say prayers and light incense. It's a great spot to learn about Zen temple traditions and feel the spiritual side of Kinkakuji Temple.
Enjoy Matcha Tea
After exploring the Golden Pavilion Temple, visit one of the tea houses for a traditional cup of matcha tea. The tea houses often have views of the gardens, making your visit even more special.
Must-see Attractions near Kinkakuji Temple
Ryoanji Temple
Just a short walk from Kinkakuji Temple, Ryoanji Temple is famous for its Zen rock garden. The garden has carefully placed rocks and pebbles, creating a peaceful atmosphere. It's a must-see for anyone interested in Zen gardens and meditation.
Kitano Tenmangu Shrine
Kitano Tenmangu Shrine is dedicated to the god of education and learning. Many students visit this lively shrine, which is surrounded by pretty plum tree gardens. It's a great place to experience both culture and natural beauty.
Nijo Castle
A little farther away but still nearby, Nijo Castle shows what life was like for Japan's shoguns. The castle has beautiful gardens and detailed interiors with "nightingale floors" that chirp when you walk on them. It's a fun place to explore after visiting Kinkakuji Temple.