Kinkakuji Temple

Tourist attraction

★ 4.9 (19K+ reviews) • 441K+ booked

Kinkaku-ji Temple, also known as the Golden Pavilion Temple or Rokuon-ji, is a breathtaking Zen Buddhist temple located in Kyoto, Japan. Renowned for its top two floors entirely covered in gold leaf, the pavilion gleams brilliantly against the backdrop of the surrounding strolling landscape garden. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is particularly mesmerizing when reflected in the Mirror Pond, which was designed to capture the pavilion’s stunning image. Originally built during the Heian period, the temple has been rebuilt several times. The current pavilion dates back to 1955 after the original structure was tragically set on fire by a monk who committed suicide. The temple’s architecture features three floors in different styles: the first in shinden style, the second in bukke style, and the third in a Chinese Zen hall style, reflecting the influence of the Rinzai sect of Zen Buddhism. Don’t miss the golden phoenix perched atop the roof, symbolizing rebirth and immortality. Visitors can also enjoy the spiritual elements of Kinkaku-ji, including the Fudo Hall, Buddha’s ashes, and the serene Dharma waters, which produce soothing sound waves as they flow.

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

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4.9 /5

19K+ reviews

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Andrew *****

1 Jul

Amy did is awesome job of getting the group to the sites we wanted to see. she was helpful in explaining the different areas we went as well as taking pictures if you asked her.

Lesly *******

1 Jul

Booked a Ramen Cooking Class here in Kyoto. Mo Mo and Amir were fantastic teachers and very friendly people. Very much enjoyed and HIGHLY recommend for everyone that loves ramen to attend this. Ramen after the class was delcicious! 10/10 recommend!

Mary *****

1 Jul

Such a peaceful and scenic ride—perfect for relaxing and soaking in Arashiyama's natural beauty!

Klook User

30 Jun

The 2 men that taught us the process of making ramen were amazing and so friendly, they made the effort to explain things step by step so it was easy to follow and bonded over anime and ramen. A unique and one of a kind experience, it was just my partner and I which made the experience more private and enjoyable. Time just flew

Sandra ***********

30 Jun

Unfortunately, it rained heavily on the day of travel, but the ride on the Sagano Romantic Train was still unforgettable. The entire train crew bids you a sweet farewell upon departure, and the conductor tells you all about the route. There's a great little museum and café at the station, and all in all, the ride is highly recommended; the river and the forests are beautiful.

李 **

30 Jun

It was a very satisfying trip, compact and rich! Several scenic spots have their own characteristics, fully reflecting the ancient capital culture and Japanese characteristics. The only regret is that I didn't see Toshodaiji Temple. After all, I hope to see the place where Master Jianzhen worked and lived. Special praise for the tour guide Xiao Liu, who is humorous and thoughtful. I hope to experience other routes in the future.

Rosalyn *****

30 Jun

shout out to our tour guide anson. nice and friendly. destinations were great and we were given ample time to visit each. convenient and practical tour. thank you klook!

Rosalyn *****

30 Jun

our tour guide anson is nice and helpful with insightful and interesting stories/trivias. loved the places we visited and we were given enough time to explore each destination. thank you to our friendly tour guide for the alfort chocolates and candies after the tour. it was a sweet gesture.

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Why is the Kinkakuji Temple famous?

Is Kinkakuji Temple made of real gold?

What is the myth behind the Golden Pavilion Temple?

How long to spend at Golden Pavilion Temple?

Is Kinkakuji Temple free?

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Why was Kinkaku-ji burned down?

Golden Pavilion Temple Things To Do

Admire the Golden Pavilion

Marvel at the lavish gold leaf exterior and the golden phoenix perched on the roof. The pavilion is especially striking reflected in the pond during autumn or winter.

Stroll Through the Gardens

The Japanese strolling landscape garden features winding paths, seasonal flowers, and small islands. Key highlights include Anmintaku Pond, also called the "lake of peace," offering peaceful views of the pavilion.

Explore Fudo Hall

Pay respects to Fudo Myoo and experience quiet reflection in this Zen Buddhist space, part of the temple's spiritual heritage.

Enjoy Matcha Tea

Nearby tea houses overlook the gardens and provide an authentic tea ceremony experience. Pair your matcha with seasonal sweets while soaking in the serene scenery.

Shop for Souvenirs

On your way out, explore souvenir shops offering local crafts, Kinkaku-ji memorabilia, and traditional Japanese treats.

Attractions Near Golden Pavilion

Ryoanji Temple

Located about 1 km from Kinkaku-ji, Ryoanji Temple is famous for its minimalist Zen rock garden, where 15 stones are arranged so only 14 are visible from any viewpoint. The temple, part of the Rinzai sect, offers a peaceful stroll through traditional gardens with ponds and seasonal flowers. Early mornings or autumn visits provide the most serene and photogenic experience.

Kitano Tenmangu Shrine

Just 2 km from the Golden Pavilion Temple, Kitano Tenmangu Shrine is dedicated to Tenjin, the god of learning, and attracts students praying for academic success. The shrine is surrounded by plum trees, which bloom spectacularly in February and March, making it ideal for photography. Monthly flea markets nearby offer local crafts and snacks for a cultural shopping experience.

Ninna-ji Temple

About 1.5 km away, Ninna-ji Temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring a grand Buddha Hall, a five-story pagoda, and elegant shinden-style architecture. Its expansive gardens are perfect for quiet walks, especially during cherry blossom season. Visitors can also explore smaller sub-temples tucked within the grounds for a hidden Zen retreat experience.

Nijo Castle

Located 6 km from Kinkaku-ji, Nijo Castle provides a glimpse into Japan's feudal history with intricate interiors, nightingale floors, and lush gardens. Its contrasting style makes it a fascinating complement to the serene aesthetics of the Golden Pavilion Temple. A morning visit here pairs well with an afternoon at Kinkaku-ji for a full historical itinerary.

Kyoto Imperial Villa (Kyoto Gosho)

About 4 km from Kinkaku-ji, the Kyoto Imperial Villa was originally a residence for the imperial family and showcases classic Heian period architecture. While the interior requires a reservation, the surrounding gardens and tea houses offer peaceful walking paths. It's an excellent spot to appreciate traditional Japanese landscaping and historical significance.

Daitoku-ji Temple Complex

Only 3 km away, the Daitoku-ji Temple Complex consists of multiple Zen temples featuring different architectural styles, rock gardens, and traditional tea houses. It's ideal for travelers looking to dive deeper into the practices and aesthetics of Zen Buddhism beyond Kinkaku-ji. Seasonal exhibitions and meditation experiences add to its cultural richness.

Souvenir & Cultural Streets

Near Kinkaku-ji, local streets are lined with souvenir shops selling gold leaf items, matcha sweets, and traditional crafts. These bustling streets provide a cultural shopping experience and a chance to take home unique Kyoto keepsakes. It's the perfect way to end a day exploring the Golden Pavilion Temple and nearby attractions.

Golden Pavilion Temple Entrance Fee

General Admission: 500 yen
Primary & Middle School Students: 300 yen

This fee includes access to the iconic Golden Pavilion Temple, the surrounding landscape garden, and opportunities to explore nearby cultural sites. For many travelers, it offers one of the most affordable yet unforgettable Buddhist temple experiences in Japan.

How To Get To Golden Pavilion Temple?

Getting to Golden Pavilion Temple from JR Kyoto Station is simple, with three convenient public transportation routes available:

Kyoto City Bus #205 -- The most direct option: take the #205 bus from Kyoto Station and get off at Kinkakuji-michi Bus Stop, which is just a short walk from the temple entrance.
Subway + Bus Route -- Take the Karasuma Subway Line to Kitaoji Station, then transfer to either the #204 or #205 Kyoto City Bus and get off at Kinkakuji-michi.
JR Train + Bus Route -- Take the JR Sagano Line to Emmachi Station, then catch the #204 or #205 bus to Kinkakuji-michi Bus Stop.

Golden Pavilion Temple Hours and Best Time to Visit

Golden Pavilion Temple is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, all year round, making it easy to fit into any Kyoto travel itinerary.

If you're hoping to experience this Zen temple in a more peaceful setting, without the crowds and selfie sticks, aim to arrive right at opening time. Early mornings offer a serene view of the gold leaf-coated pavilion reflecting in the Mirror Pond, ideal for photography and quiet contemplation.

Late afternoons can also be magical. As tour groups thin out and the sun begins to set, the warm golden-hour glow enhances the already breathtaking scenery. Many visitors also enjoy pairing their trip with a visit to a nearby tea garden for a cup of green tea and a chance to take part in a tea ceremony.

History of the Golden Pavilion Temple

The Golden Pavilion Temple, originally built in the 14th century, was rebuilt in 1955 after the original structure was destroyed, preserving its exquisite design and iconic gold leaf exterior. A functioning Zen Buddhist temple of the Rinzai sect, Kinkaku-ji offers visitors the chance to experience the tranquility of dharma waters and meditate amid its peaceful gardens. The temple's grounds once served as a retirement villa for the imperial family, adding to its cultural prestige, while inside, sacred relics such as Buddha's ashes are housed and Fudo Hall honors the guardian deity Fudo Myoo, reflecting the site's rich spiritual heritage.

Kinkakuji Temple