Kinkaku-ji Temple Guide

Kinkaku-ji Temple, also known as the Golden Pavilion, is a Zen Buddhist temple located in Kyoto, Japan. It is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Kyoto and is known for its stunning architecture and beautiful gardens.

History

The temple was originally built in 1397 as a retirement villa for the shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu. After his death, the villa was converted into a Zen temple by his son. The temple has been burned down several times throughout history, including during the Onin War in the 15th century and again in 1950 by a monk who was mentally ill. It was rebuilt in 1955 and has been a popular tourist destination ever since.

Architecture

The temple's main building, the Kinkaku, is covered in gold leaf and sits on the edge of a pond. The second and third floors of the building are built in the shinden-zukuri style, which was popular during the Heian period. The first floor is built in the buke-zukuri style, which was popular during the samurai period. The building is surrounded by beautiful gardens that change with the seasons.

Visiting Kinkaku-ji Temple

The temple is open daily from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm. Admission is 400 yen for adults and 300 yen for children. The temple can be reached by bus or taxi from Kyoto Station. The approximate latitude and longitude of the temple is 35.0395° N, 135.7292° E.

Conclusion

Kinkaku-ji Temple is a must-see destination for anyone visiting Kyoto. Its stunning architecture and beautiful gardens make it a truly unique and unforgettable experience. Be sure to add it to your itinerary when visiting Japan!