Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)

Overview

Kinkaku-ji, formally Rokuon-ji, is one of Kyoto's defining attractions. The reliquary hall at its heart is covered in pure gold leaf that gleams in the sun and is reflected in the Kyoko-chi pond. The three-storey pavilion blends three distinct architectural styles: shinden, samurai and Zen.

History

Kinkaku-ji was built in 1397 as the Kitayama-dai villa of the shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu. After his death the villa was converted, in accordance with his wishes, into a Zen temple named Rokuon-ji. A novice monk burned it down in 1950 and it was rebuilt to the original design in 1955. It became a World Heritage Site in 1994.

Highlights

• •The reflection in the Kyoko-chi pond, the classic photograph
• •The rare sight of the pavilion under snow in winter
• •The building illuminated at night
• •The finely composed garden, a showcase of Japanese landscape art

Practical tips

• •Arrive at opening time, 8:30, to avoid the crowds
• •The Arashiyama bamboo grove can be visited the same day
• •The ticket includes a calligraphy charm, a popular souvenir
• •Autumn foliage is beautiful but very busy

Practical information

Best time

March to May, October to November

Tickets

JPY 400 for adults

Opening hours

9:00 to 17:00, open daily

Local food

Kaiseki cuisine, matcha sweets and yudofu

Getting around

Buses and the metro cover the main temples; Arashiyama is reached by JR or the Randen tram

Visa

A visa is required and document requirements vary by consular district. Apply about a month ahead through a designated agency.

…