Kinkaku-ji Temple captivates all who see it with its shining golden buildings.
Kinkaku-ji Temple, which Japan is proud of around the world, is Kyoto’s most famous landmark with a history spanning over 600 years.
The unique design that combines different architectural styles on each floor, the beautiful garden that changes its appearance with the seasons, and the graceful reflection in the Kyokochi Pond leave a lasting impression on all visitors.
We will guide you through every corner of Kinkaku-ji Temple, which resembles paradise.
What kind of place is Kinkaku-ji Temple?
Kinkaku-ji Temple is one of Japan’s most famous Zen temples, located in Kita-ku, Kyoto City.
Although it is called Kinkaku-ji Temple, this is a common name; its official name is Rokuon-ji Temple. It was built by Ashikaga Yoshimitsu during the Muromachi period.
The three-story Kinkaku-ji, a designated National Treasure, is characterized by its majestic appearance, with the top two stories covered in pure gold leaf. It is a unique building with different architectural styles on each story, as shown below.
The vast grounds are home to a stroll-style pond garden, representative of the Muromachi period, with the Golden Pavilion reflected in the Kyoko-chi pond at the center, creating beautiful scenery in every season.
It was registered as a World Heritage Site in 1994, and is one of Kyoto’s most popular tourist attractions, attracting approximately 2 million visitors from Japan and abroad each year.
7 Must-see Attractions at Kinkaku-ji Temple
Kinkaku-ji Temple, registered as a World Heritage Site, has many things to see.
Depending on where you visit, you can discover different charms, including the national treasure Kinkaku-ji Pavilion, beautiful gardens, and historic buildings.
When you visit Kinkaku-ji Temple, be sure to check out the following seven spots.
Highlight 1: Shariden (Kinkaku-ji) – a harmonious blend of three architectural styles
The Shariden Hall is a three-story building known as the symbol of Kinkaku-ji Temple.
Each floor features a different architectural style, creating a beautiful fusion of Japanese and Zen aesthetics.
The first floor is called “Tsuridono” in the Shinden-zukuri style , the second floor is called “Choon-do” in the samurai-style , and the third floor is called “Kyokucho” in the Zen style .
The pure gold leaf that covers the exterior of the second and third floors is particularly striking, shining in the sunlight .
Statues of Amida Nyorai and Kannon Bodhisattva are enshrined inside, creating a solemn space reminiscent of the Pure Land.
The Shariden, which perfectly harmonizes architectural beauty with Buddhist philosophy, is highly regarded around the world as a supreme example of Japanese architecture.
Highlight 2: Kyokochi Pond, where the Golden Pavilion is reflected on its surface
Kyokochi Pond is the central pond in the Kinkaku-ji Temple garden.
As its name suggests, the temple is beautifully reflected on the water’s surface, making it a popular spot for taking photos of the upside-down Kinkaku-ji.
It shows a different face with each season, creating breathtaking views with cherry blossoms in spring and autumn leaves in autumn.
The pond is surrounded by carefully arranged stones and plants, allowing you to experience the beauty of a typical stroll-style pond garden.
Especially in the mornings, when the wind is calm and the water surface is as still as a mirror, you can see the upside-down Kinkaku-ji at its most beautiful.
It’s also a popular spot for people who love taking photos.
Highlight 3: Sekkatei, where you can look down on Kinkaku-ji from a high vantage point
Sekkatei is the teahouse located at the highest point on the Kinkaku-ji temple grounds.
Its location makes it a great vantage point from which to get a panoramic view of Kinkaku-ji and the entire garden.
It was named “Yukatei” because at dusk you can see the Golden Pavilion shining in the setting sun.
Although the building is a simple teahouse, the view from the windows is the best in Kinkaku-ji Temple.
The garden is also cleverly incorporated into the scenery, allowing visitors to experience the sophistication of Muromachi period teahouse architecture.
This is a hidden gem where you can enjoy scenery that changes depending on the season and time of day.
Highlight 4: The main gate, which shows the high status of the temple
The main gate is a prestigious gate built as the main entrance to Kinkaku-ji Temple.
The heavy roof and powerful pillars are a testament to the traditions of temple architecture that have continued since the Muromachi period.
The gate is inscribed with the official name of Kinkaku-ji Temple, “Rokuon-ji,” expressing the dignity and prestige of the temple .
Additionally, the path to Kinkaku-ji Temple, which can be seen as you pass through the gate, is a space where visitors can purify their minds, and the gate continues to fulfill its role as the gateway to this historic Zen temple.
Highlight 5: The Fudo Hall where the statue of Acala, an important cultural property, is enshrined
The Fudodo Hall houses a precious statue of Acala that was created in the late Heian period.
The Fudodo Hall has been designated an Important Cultural Property and is characterized by its impressive appearance and intricate carving techniques.
The building itself retains the architectural style of the Muromachi period and is considered a structure of great historical value.
The area around the Fudodo Hall is shrouded in silence, making it a space where worshippers can calm their minds and offer their prayers. Many people visit the hall to make their first visit of the year or to pray for protection from evil spirits, and the building symbolizes Kinkaku-ji Temple as a place of faith.
Highlight 6: Anminzawa, home to the White Snake Tomb, known as a power spot
Anminzawa is a small stream within the grounds of Kinkaku-ji Temple and is a power spot known as the White Snake Tomb.
The white snake is said to be a symbol of good fortune and business success, and many worshippers come from all over the world to see it.
The surrounding area is blessed with abundant nature, allowing you to relax in a tranquil atmosphere.
It has been revered as a sacred place since ancient times, and locals have said that it brings good fortune in business and good fortune.
The scenery changes with the seasons, making it one of Kinkaku-ji’s hidden highlights.
Highlight 7: The boat-shaped Ashihara Island in Kyoko Pond
Ashihara Island, which floats in the center of Kyokochi Pond, is an artificial island shaped like a boat.
The shape of this island, which is characteristic of garden design from the Muromachi period, is said to have been inspired by the Eight Views of Xiaoxiang in China, and still conveys the cultural exchange of that time.
Different flowers bloom depending on the season, adding color to the scenery of Kyokochi Pond.
It also serves as a resting place for wild birds, and is a place where you can experience the harmony between nature and man-made objects.
The sight of Kinkaku-ji and Ashihara Island reflected on the water’s surface is a particularly impressive sight loved by many people.
Kinkaku-ji Temple admission fees and hours
| Admission fee | Adults (high school students and above): 500 yen Elementary and junior high school students: 300 yen |
| Visiting hours | 9:00〜17:00 |
