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Temple · Kyoto · Kansai

Kinkaku-ji

金閣寺

A golden Zen Buddhist temple in Kyoto built in the 14th century as a shogun's retirement villa and now one of Japan's most iconic landmarks.

Kinkaku-ji Exterior
Kinkaku-ji Exterior © Jaycangel, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Opening hours
Mon–Sun09:00–17:00
Holidays09:00–17:00
Admission
Standard
Adult¥400
Links
Official websiteEnglish · Japanese
Access
Kinkakujicho, Kyoto-Shi Kita-Ku, Kyoto 〒 603-8361

Kinkaku-ji, also known as the Temple of the Golden Pavilion, is a Zen Buddhist temple located in Kyoto, Japan. The temple is famous for its striking golden-leafed top two floors, which contrast beautifully with the white-plastered bottom floor and the surrounding gardens and pond. The temple was built in the 14th century and originally served as a retirement villa for the shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu. After his death, it was converted into a temple by his son. The temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is considered one of Kyoto's most popular tourist attractions. Visitors can stroll through the temple's beautiful gardens, including a large pond with a small island, and enjoy the reflection of the temple in the water. The temple is also surrounded by many other historical buildings and temples, making it a perfect place to explore the rich cultural and religious history of Japan.

At Hey Japan!, we strive to keep the places listed on our website as current as possible. However, location owners or management may alter opening times or modify admission requirements without prior notice. Check official websites before visiting.

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