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
唐 **
2 days ago
The light show is very beautiful. Dry ice is sprayed on the lake, and the lights change color all the time. With the music accompanying the shamisen, the whole thing is very fun.
Klook User
2 days ago
amazing experience! 10/10 would recommend this tour to everyone. Vincent, our guide, was knowledgeable about the history and was able to answer all questions, all while having a positive and humorous attitude. Just great!
Peng *******
2 days ago
Thank you Cicy and Steven for your professional and humorous tour guide. It is a pity that my English listening is not very good. I feel that the English introduction is more detailed ~ I hope I can meet Steven and Cicy next time I go to Japan, great!
cynthia ******
2 days ago
My son is an anime fan and he was super happy and delighted with the entire exhibition. Due to time constraints, we did not have the opportunity to use the costumes, but I think it is a great experience to walk around the studio village.
cynthia ******
2 days ago
My son was super happy, he even made a drawing and put it on the mural they have at the entrance of the museum. Shopping with Klook is very practical and easy!
Klook 用戶
2 days ago
I hope you can add more itineraries so that it is really convenient to travel. I will consider hotel pick-up and drop-off next time. The weather is very cold these days. It is so comfortable to just get on the bus and sleep at a fixed point😌
1+
클룩 회원
2 days ago
I bought it on Klook for around 17,000 won! At first, I thought it was a little expensive, but it was decorated well and had a great feel. The garden is prettier than the main hall! If you don't have any plans at night, definitely go there once. Highly recommended!
2+
Klook 用戶
2 days ago
Although the itinerary is tight, being able to visit so many attractions in one day is well worth the price. Our tour guides Charles and Steven are proficient in Chinese/English/Japanese, so you don’t have to worry about language barriers. If you want to relax and have fun Kyoto, this is a great day trip option.
2+
Nearby places to go
FAQs about Golden Pavilion Temple
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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.