Golden Pavilion Temple

Tourist attraction
★ 4.8 (900+ reviews) • 283K+ booked
Experience the enchanting beauty of Kinkakuji Temple, also known as the Golden Pavilion, a Zen Buddhist temple in Kyoto, Japan. This iconic building, covered in gold leaf, is a must-visit destination that attracts numerous visitors annually. Designated as a National Special Historic Site and a World Heritage Site, Kinkakuji offers a glimpse into the rich cultural and historical heritage of Kyoto. Immerse yourself in the splendor of Kinkakuji Temple, a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site that captivates visitors with its stunning gold leaf exterior and rich Zen Buddhist heritage.
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Kinugasa Goshonouchicho, Kita Ward, Kyoto, 603-8378, Japan

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Why people love Golden Pavilion Temple

4.8 /5
920 reviews
Read all reviews
Utente Klook
8 Sep
interesting experience lasts a couple of hours. at the end you can taste the desserts you prepare. recommended
Klook用戶
8 Sep
The instructor was fluent in English and explained every step carefully and clearly, with other aides standing by. Clean venue and good overall experience!
Klook User
7 Sep
Very friendly and fast. The selection was nice and it was just outside a station. We got there late but they didn't penalize us. They lock the doors after 5pm so you must return the yukatas before 5pm or you'll get penalized. The hair was also really quick and pretty. We also got free Keychain after returning them!
Klook User
7 Sep
was so nice and the instructors was very kind with us
Edelwin **********
6 Sep
This was a great experience, Ellie our tourguide is so kind. An awesome and affordable experience and convenient to us with baby.
1+
Angel ********
5 Sep
I had an amazing time on the Kyoto-Nara tour! Our guide, Eric, was incredibly professional, kind, and accommodating. As a solo traveler, I really appreciated him helping me take Instagram-worthy photos throughout the day. The tour was well-organized, with the bus leaving on time from VIP Namba. The first stop, Fushimi Inari, was breathtaking. If you climb higher up the trail, you can capture great solo shots. Although the climb was challenging, the view at the top made it all worthwhile. I nearly missed the bus but made it just in time for the 10:40 am call. Lunch was a shabu-shabu meal. While I'm personally not a fan of this dish, the restaurant staff were very polite, and it would be great if they offered other options like rice bowls. The second stop was the Golden Pavilion, which was easier to navigate with fewer stairs compared to Fushimi Inari. Lastly, the Nara Deer Park was so much fun! I enjoyed feeding the deer with my two sets of 200 yen biscuits, and we had the longest stay there, allowing some to relax at the nearby Starbucks. Overall, the tour was absolutely worth it. The day was productive, and I got to see multiple attractions in a single day.
2+
Klook User
5 Sep
Excellent way to see Kyoto! Katz our guide is a local and was very great and fun. If you are in town for a short while this is by far the way to see the sights thanks again!
Klook客路用户
5 Sep
I chose the cheapest soup tofu dish, but the price/performance ratio is really average. The dining environment is very good, and it will be even more beautiful during the red leaf season. If you have not experienced it, you can come and try it and choose the appropriate set meal according to your financial situation.

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FAQs about Golden Pavilion Temple

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What to know before visiting Golden Pavilion Temple

Remarkable Landmarks and Must-Visit Sights

Golden Pavilion

The Golden Pavilion, a three-story building covered in pure gold leaf, is the main attraction at Kinkakuji. It houses relics of the Buddha and showcases a unique blend of architectural styles, including shinden, buke-zukuri, and zen. The pavilion's design and setting in a Japanese strolling garden make it a picturesque and serene location.

Gardens and Teahouse

Explore the meticulously designed gardens surrounding Kinkakuji Temple, featuring the Anmintaku Pond and the Sekkatei Teahouse from the Edo Period. Enjoy the serene atmosphere and traditional charm of the gardens, offering a peaceful retreat from the bustling city life.

Fudo Hall

Visit the Fudo Hall, a small temple hall housing a statue of Fudo Myoo, carved by the renowned figure Kobo Daishi. Experience the spiritual ambiance and learn about the significance of this sacred site in Japanese religious history.

Culture and History

Originally a villa, Kinkakuji was transformed into a Zen temple in 1397 by Ashikaga Yoshimitsu. The pavilion has a rich history, including a fire in 1950 that led to its reconstruction. The architectural design of the pavilion incorporates elements of shinden, buke-zukuri, and zen styles, reflecting different periods of Japanese history.

Local Cuisine

While visiting Kinkakuji, be sure to explore the local cuisine of Kyoto. Indulge in traditional dishes such as kaiseki ryori, matcha sweets, and yudofu. Dining experiences in Kyoto offer a unique blend of flavors and culinary traditions that are sure to delight your taste buds.

Cultural and Historical Significance

Kinkakuji Temple holds immense cultural and historical importance as a symbol of Zen Buddhism. Its golden exterior and tranquil gardens reflect centuries of tradition and spiritual reverence.