About Kinkaku-ji
Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) is Kyoto's most photographed sight, a three-story zen temple covered in pure gold leaf that shimmers in the reflection of the surrounding pond. Originally built in 1397 as a retirement villa for Shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu, it was converted to a temple after his death. The current structure dates from 1955 after a monk burned down the original in 1950, inspired by obsession (immortalized in Yukio Mishima's novel). Pair this stop with the Kyoto guide and the wider Japan overview.
⏰ Hours & Best Times
- Daily: 9 AM - 5 PM (last entry 4:30 PM)
- Best: Opening at 9 AM or late afternoon for better light
- Winter: Snow on gold is magical but rare
- Avoid: 11 AM - 2 PM when tour buses arrive
💰 Costs
- Entry: ¥500 adult, ¥300 child
- Unique ticket: Your ticket is a charm/prayer paper
- Photos: Included, unlimited photography allowed
- Guided tour: ¥5,000-8,000 for private guide
✨ Highlights
- ✨ Gold-leaf pavilion: Three stories covered in pure gold
- 🏞️ Mirror Pond: Perfect reflections of the temple
- 🦢 Phoenix statue: Golden phoenix tops the pavilion roof
- 🌳 Strolling garden: Classical Japanese landscape design
- 🍵 Tea house: Traditional architecture in garden setting
- 🌸 Seasonal beauty: Cherry blossoms, greenery, fall colors, or snow
📝 Tips
- One-way path: Follow the route, can't go back to photograph again
- Best photo spot: Immediately upon entering - take your time
- Keep ticket: It's an ofuda (amulet) to bring home
- Allow 45 minutes: Garden walk beyond the pavilion is beautiful
- Combine visits: Ryoan-ji zen garden is 10 minutes away by bus