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!
See more
See more
Kinugasa Goshonouchicho, Kita Ward, Kyoto, 603-8378, Japan
The best of Golden Pavilion Temple
Bucket-list experiences
See all
Kyoto and Nara Day Tour from Osaka/Kyoto
Bestseller
Book now for tomorrow
From
S$ 69.55
Kyoto World Heritage & Uji Scenery One-day Tour (From Osaka/Kyoto)
Easy refund
Instant confirmation
From
S$ 66.79
Kinkakuji & Kiyomizu-dera & Fushimi Inari Shrine Tour丨Osaka/Kyoto
Bestseller
Easy refund
Instant confirmation
From
S$ 41.75
Arashiyama, Kinkakuji, Nara Park Day Tour from Osaka/Kyoto
Bestseller
Easy refund
Instant confirmation
From
S$ 78.25
Fushimi Inari-taisha, Arashiyama, Kiyomizu-dera day tour from Osaka
Bestseller
Easy refund
Instant confirmation
From
S$ 78.25
Fushimi Inari-Taisha, Arashiyama, Kiyomizu-Dera Day Tour from Kyoto
Bestseller
Easy refund
Instant confirmation
From
S$ 78.25
PERFECT KYOTO 1Day Bus Tour
Instant confirmation
From
S$ 147.79
Arashiyama, Nara & Yasaka Shrine & Hanamikoji OneDay Tour from Osaka
Easy refund
Instant confirmation
From
S$ 68.45
Departing from Osaka｜ Kansai private chartered one-day tour｜Osaka‧Kyoto‧Nara‧Kobe‧Awajishima‧Amanohashidate‧Lake Biwa
Private group
Easy refund
From
S$ 391.19
Kyoto Day Tour
Easy refund
Instant confirmation
From
S$ 163.45
Kyoto Morning Tour (Round Trip from Kyoto)
Easy refund
Instant confirmation
S$ 86.95
Make it a getaway
See all
hotel MONday Kyoto Marutamachi
Instant confirmation
From
S$ 83.87
Rinn Shiki Juraku
Instant confirmation
From
S$ 247.93
S$ 327.65
The Royal Park Canvas Kyoto Nijo
Instant confirmation
From
S$ 81.89
S$ 106.35
Hotel Excellence Enmachi Ekimae
Instant confirmation
From
S$ 45.46
HOTEL LiVEMAX Kyoto Nijojo Nishi
Instant confirmation
From
S$ 49.16
La'gent Hotel Kyoto Nijo
Instant confirmation
From
S$ 65.79
Kyoto Garden Palace
Instant confirmation
From
S$ 92.73
Stay SAKURA Kyoto Nijo Seasons
Instant confirmation
From
S$ 54.84
Kefu Stay & Lounge
Instant confirmation
From
S$ 60.47
S$ 137.54
Another Sky kyoto Nijojo
Instant confirmation
From
S$ 80.3
S$ 81.12
Petit Hotel Kyoto
Instant confirmation
From
S$ 50.35
Hotel KADO Gosho - Minami Kyoto
Instant confirmation
From
S$ 140.64
S$ 182.64
Trouble-free transport
Depart from Osaka | Kansai Area (Kyoto, Nara, Kobe) Private Charter One-Day Tour | Free itinerary | Large capacity
Easy refund
Instant confirmation
Book now for tomorrow
From
S$ 457.09
Sagano Romantic Train Ticket
Bestseller
Easy refund
Instant confirmation
S$ 7.65
Randen Pass
Bestseller
Instant confirmation
Book now for today
From
S$ 6.09
Kyoto car rentals | Choose from multiple car models
Instant confirmation
From
S$ 60
/day
Eizan Railway Ee Kippu 1-Day Pass
Instant confirmation
Book now for today
S$ 10.45
Kyoto to Tokyo - Japan Rail Shinkansen (Bullet Train) Ticket
Instant confirmation
Book now for today
S$ 117.35
Kyoto to Shinagawa - Japan Rail Shinkansen (Bullet Train) Ticket
Instant confirmation
Book now for today
S$ 117.35
All that's good & tasty
See all
Nanzenji Junsei Traditional Tofu Kaiseki Cuisine - Kyoto
Bestseller
Easy refund
From
S$ 46.05
Guenpin in Gion- Puffer Fish Specialist
Bestseller
Easy refund
Book now for tomorrow
From
S$ 47.05
Gion Kawakami (祇園川上) in Kyoto Gion
Easy refund
From
S$ 66.95
Kyo Kurozakura in Kyoto Gion
Easy refund
From
S$ 62.99
From
S$ 48.09
Sopporo Kaniya - Crab Specialty in Kyoto
Easy refund
From
S$ 68.55
From
S$ 198.19
From
S$ 49.99
Mokube in Gion - Michelin Starred Kaiseki
Easy refund
From
S$ 266.00
From
S$ 40.90
From
S$ 98.25
From
S$ 219.95
More to explore
Kyoto Hop-On Hop-off sightseeing bus by Skyhop Bus (1day / 2days ticket)
Bestseller
Easy refund
Instant confirmation
From
S$ 34.55
S$ 34.79
Bic Camera Tourist Privilege Discount Coupon in Kyoto
Instant confirmation
Book now for today
Free
From
S$ 30.45
Why people love Golden Pavilion Temple
Klook User
5 days ago
When reach VIP villa, need to report yourself in reception area, reception staff will told you the bus number. Our tour guide Gary is knowledgeable and nice guy. He will share stories when reach the place. Recommended this one day tour.
LI *****
5 days ago
The subway coupon you paid is very useful. You can use it to take the Lanshan train when you go to Arashiyama! I really recommend Arashiyama. It’s very comfortable to visit there. I highly recommend it!
JERRY ***
5 days ago
My recent guided tour of Kyoto's highlights was a magical experience. The pacing was perfect – allowing ample time for exploration and photography without feeling rushed.
The itinerary covered the major sights (Fushimi Inari Shrine, Kiyomizu-dera Temple, Arashiyama Bamboo Grove and Nara Deer Park)offering a comprehensive overview of Kyoto's beauty.
The only minor drawback was the somewhat limited time spent at each location. Given the sheer number of attractions, it was inevitable that some would receive less attention than others. However, this was a small price to pay for such a comprehensive and enriching experience.
Overall, I highly recommend this tour for anyone seeking a captivating introduction to Kyoto's rich cultural heritage. It's a perfect blend of historical exploration and breathtaking scenery. Five stars!
2+
Tan *******
5 days ago
Steven our tour guide is very cheerful, and gave clear instructions. He is fluent in English and mandarin. They even had some umbrellas on standby. The 3 places are beautiful despite of rain.
1+
Klook 用戶
5 days ago
It’s a great value trip, especially the tour guide Cici’s service is very good and she is proficient in English and Chinese. We have a great trip. We will join it again next time if we have the opportunity^^
2+
Yee ******************
5 days ago
highly recommended. tour guide Steven is very helpful and provided detailed guide and Google map link to help head back to meeting point.
Klook User
5 days ago
hannia was an amazing guide! she was informative, generous and very friendly. it was a great day with a mix of guidance as well as time to yourself. great day and certainly recommend
1+
寧 *
2 Nov
Klook’s 10th anniversary ticket price is 40% off, which is a great deal! There will be another Hundred Ghost Night Parade on December 8, 2024. If you want to go, hurry up! !
2+
Nearby places to go
FAQs about Golden Pavilion Temple
Why is the Golden Pavilion famous?
Is Kinkakuji Temple made of real gold?
What is the myth behind the Golden Pavilion Temple?
How to get to Kinkakuji Temple?
How long to spend at Golden Pavilion Temple?
When’s the best time to visit Kinkakuji Temple?
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.