Kinkakuji Temple
Kinkakuji Temple
4.5
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Monday
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Tuesday
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Wednesday
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Thursday
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Friday
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Saturday
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Sunday
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
About
One of Kyoto's most famous attractions, this temple was originally built in 1397 as a residence for shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu. The structure was completely covered in gold leaf, earning it the name Golden Pavilion.
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The area
Address
Neighbourhood: Northern Kyoto
Hot springs and historic temples characterize the leafy landscapes of Northern Kyoto. Acres of tranquil residential streets are interrupted by some of Kyoto's most gorgeous architectural gems, including the majestic Golden Pavilion of Kinkakuji, the serene artistry of the Ryoanji Temple rock gardens, and the bold red paint across the structures of Enryakuji Temple. Once a religious core of the city, the district now boasts some of its most remote and peaceful hot springs, as well as a few of its best family-run mom-and-pop restaurants. A blend of extremely local at its outskirts, and highly peopled at its tourist centers, Northern Kyoto nonetheless retains a halcyon air in harmony with nature.
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Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
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4.5
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karenpammy2016
San Francisco, CA1,331 contributions
Jul 2024 • Couples
Unfortunately the morning we went, it was raining non-stop quite heavy at times but nevertheless, our visit was great. It is conveniently reachable by bus #205 from the Kitaoji Bus Terminal Platform B3 at Kyoto Station. It can be a bit tricky to locate the station stop itself. A local resident helped us-- it is a shared bus stop with another line but it is absolutely on time as stated. It is exactly 23 stops from here.
Once you get off the bus, walk 1 1/2 blocks over, left as you depart the bus and at the first corner, make a right, then walk straight ahead to the entrance of Kinkakuji (Gold Pavilion ) Temple. Use Google maps as it is very accurate.
When you arrive, it is a one -way visit in the grounds. It is well worth the admission of 500 yen per person- cash payment only. Go early if possible as many tour groups and crowds start to come after 10a.m. One thing nice is that there are signs posted that big groups are not allowed to photograph in front of the Kinkakuji Temple where the iconic view of the temple reflects the water. It was raining quite steady during our visit but in spite of the inclement weather, our photos still showed up nice. Don't get discouraged to come if it is raining as the rain does let up and you may not have another extra day or time to visit here.
The walk around the grounds with the different Japanese garden decor was a nice touch to our visit. They also sold a lot of good luck charms and items of that nature. Make sure you bring cash as that is the only form of payment they accept.
Definitely an enjoyable visit!
Once you get off the bus, walk 1 1/2 blocks over, left as you depart the bus and at the first corner, make a right, then walk straight ahead to the entrance of Kinkakuji (Gold Pavilion ) Temple. Use Google maps as it is very accurate.
When you arrive, it is a one -way visit in the grounds. It is well worth the admission of 500 yen per person- cash payment only. Go early if possible as many tour groups and crowds start to come after 10a.m. One thing nice is that there are signs posted that big groups are not allowed to photograph in front of the Kinkakuji Temple where the iconic view of the temple reflects the water. It was raining quite steady during our visit but in spite of the inclement weather, our photos still showed up nice. Don't get discouraged to come if it is raining as the rain does let up and you may not have another extra day or time to visit here.
The walk around the grounds with the different Japanese garden decor was a nice touch to our visit. They also sold a lot of good luck charms and items of that nature. Make sure you bring cash as that is the only form of payment they accept.
Definitely an enjoyable visit!
Written 26 October 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Julia M
Indianapolis, Indiana502 contributions
Jan 2025 • Family
This is the easternmost of three famous UNESCO World Heritage Buddhist temples arrayed along a single road on the north side of Kyoto, about 1.5 (?) miles apart. Plan to see them all. There are similarities but each has a unique feature that you won't want to miss. Kinkakuji is the one that has the big taxi and bus lot and easiest to access via Uber or taxi. I would recommend starting here, then walking west to Ryoanji (about 25 min) and then continuing west to Ninnaji (about 10 mins). Seeing all three at a non-rushed pace will take you half a day.
You enter the temple grounds, pay your admission fee, and then follow the walking path that winds through the grounds. Do not try to split off the path! The big draw of Kinkakuji is the Golden Pavilion, which you cannot go into but the set walking route takes you around 3 sides of it. The rest of the walk takes you around the lovely part-manicured, part-wild and very aesthetic grounds and past various buildings, which you cannot go into either. But there are opportunities all around to purchase votives and leave them at the many open air small shrines. There are easily located restrooms.
I feel that because of the easy access for tour buses this will be the most heavily touristed one of the three for you, as it was for us, so prepare for the crowds and none of them will be locals (although they will be Japanese tourists). Lots of Westerners who love this particular aesthetic.
You enter the temple grounds, pay your admission fee, and then follow the walking path that winds through the grounds. Do not try to split off the path! The big draw of Kinkakuji is the Golden Pavilion, which you cannot go into but the set walking route takes you around 3 sides of it. The rest of the walk takes you around the lovely part-manicured, part-wild and very aesthetic grounds and past various buildings, which you cannot go into either. But there are opportunities all around to purchase votives and leave them at the many open air small shrines. There are easily located restrooms.
I feel that because of the easy access for tour buses this will be the most heavily touristed one of the three for you, as it was for us, so prepare for the crowds and none of them will be locals (although they will be Japanese tourists). Lots of Westerners who love this particular aesthetic.
Written 14 January 2025
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
お遍路さん京都市
京都市28,062 contributions
Jun 2024 • Friends
It is an iconic tourist attraction in Japan recognized by people all over the world. However, it is not a jokey modern sightseeing spot, but one that has been recognized around the world for hundreds of years. Unfortunately, it is hard to take a single photo here. Inbound tourists of East Asian descent occupy shooting points from early morning until evening, and the "nectar" condition is also unusual. It's a nuisance, it's a world heritage site with a notable tourist disaster. Tourists are the "enemy" causing disaster for elementary school students who have been born and raised locally for more than 75 years, and I really don't want them to come, transportation is super packed, large luggage is brought onto public transport without regard for human inconvenience, luggage is not paid, loudly spoken and noisy, garbage is dumped on clean streets, above all, it's nothing more than a nuisance to roam tourist spots while destroying the surrounding air and atmosphere. Why come to Kyoto, with no idea that this is a sacred religious institution and this is a place for life training? No one asked me to come. The charm of Kinkaku-ji Temple, which has fallen to a tourist destination with nothing but posh and noisy atmosphere, is cut in half. The Goshuinjo has a long line of inbound visitors, what exactly is this "mark" for? I wonder if they're lined up knowingly? I wonder where they know it's not a stamp rally, but a proof mark as a result. For God's sake, don't come to Kyoto, why doesn't the government take entry tax from other prefectures or people from other countries? If I were mayor, I would check with the certificate at the entrance of Kyoto station or main road, and I would like to collect 5,000 yen per person from people who are not Kyoto citizens or prefectures, it is not expensive, it is said that the local area is so annoying.
Automatically translated
Written 23 June 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
coffeedoctor
Kathmandu, Nepal55 contributions
Nov 2024 • Family
A Stunning Gem in Kyoto!
My visit to Kinkaku-ji, the Golden Pavilion, was an unforgettable experience. The temple is breathtaking, with its top two floors covered in brilliant gold leaf that shimmers against the surrounding pond and lush greenery. The sight of the golden reflection in the water is magical and truly awe-inspiring, especially on a sunny day. The garden paths are beautifully maintained, and each turn offers a new, picturesque view of the temple and its natural surroundings.
Despite it being a popular tourist spot, the atmosphere felt peaceful, adding to the serene charm of the visit. I recommend going early in the day to avoid the larger crowds and take in the tranquil ambiance. A must-visit spot if you’re in Kyoto – it left me with a sense of calm and appreciation for Japan’s cultural heritage.
My visit to Kinkaku-ji, the Golden Pavilion, was an unforgettable experience. The temple is breathtaking, with its top two floors covered in brilliant gold leaf that shimmers against the surrounding pond and lush greenery. The sight of the golden reflection in the water is magical and truly awe-inspiring, especially on a sunny day. The garden paths are beautifully maintained, and each turn offers a new, picturesque view of the temple and its natural surroundings.
Despite it being a popular tourist spot, the atmosphere felt peaceful, adding to the serene charm of the visit. I recommend going early in the day to avoid the larger crowds and take in the tranquil ambiance. A must-visit spot if you’re in Kyoto – it left me with a sense of calm and appreciation for Japan’s cultural heritage.
Written 5 November 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Andrea C
Rio de Janeiro, RJ524 contributions
Jan 2024 • Family
Classified as a UNESCO world heritage site, its golden pavilion (Kinkaku), a pagoda, was made to house the sacred relics of Buddha. It has an external coating with gold leaves and on top of the roof there is a shining phoenix. Surrounded by beautiful gardens, the lake reflects its structure. It shows the visitor the Buddhist world view of peace and contemplation. The complex is located in a beautiful area with mountains all around.
Located northwest of Kyoto, easy access by bus (get off at the Kinkakuji-michi stop) Visiting hours from 9am to 5pm. General admission is 500 yen and primary and secondary school students are 300 yen.
Located northwest of Kyoto, easy access by bus (get off at the Kinkakuji-michi stop) Visiting hours from 9am to 5pm. General admission is 500 yen and primary and secondary school students are 300 yen.
Written 14 April 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Urban Traveler
Buenos Aires, Argentina10,259 contributions
Sept 2024 • Solo
A beautiful place to visit if you are in Kyoto. Admission costs ¥500 (~$3.50) but is only paid in cash. The interior is nice, but it is nothing otherworldly, it is definitely a nicer building from the outside. However, the grounds surrounding the temple are quite picturesque, with many beautiful places. Definitely worth visiting.
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Written 14 September 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Elsa C. L.
New York City, NY5,263 contributions
Oct 2024 • Couples
While it is an impressive sight with its beautiful pond and garden, only pictures of its interior is shown. Compared to the free Fushimi Inari Taisha and free Koyomizu-dera, Y500 is pricey for two reasons:
1. There are no benches within the route where one could take time to take in beauty;
2. It is overcrowded that they keep visitors moving through the route.
It felt rushed, and I felt deprived of time to
enjoy the pleasant scenery.
1. There are no benches within the route where one could take time to take in beauty;
2. It is overcrowded that they keep visitors moving through the route.
It felt rushed, and I felt deprived of time to
enjoy the pleasant scenery.
Written 31 October 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Nicole R
Kassel, Germany828 contributions
Apr 2024 • Family
Small, golden temple built on the edge of a temple lake. This temple is also located within a beautiful garden. The facility is designed in a one-way system and there is basically only one path to follow through the facility. You can't visit the temple from the inside. But the construction, location and colour scheme create a beautiful ambience. As everywhere, it is very crowded and you need some patience to take photos.
Automatically translated
Written 16 February 2025
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
お遍路さんアキラ
Kyoto, Japan25,722 contributions
Feb 2025 • Solo
The 59th Winter Journey in Kyoto is being held from February 8 (Sat) to March 18 (Tue), 2025, on the occasion of the special opening of the cultural property to the public. The admission fee is 800 yen. This time, the hojo will be opened to the public. The hojo is rarely shown to the public. This hojo was restored by Emperor Gomizunoo in the Edo period. The hojo consists of 6 bays, 3 bays on the front and 3 bays on the back, and runs around once. The front garden of the abbot's chamber is a dry landscape garden said to be created by Soami, and on the left is a camellia wabisuke, which was hand-planted by Emperor Gomizunoo.
Around the back, you can see the pine trees of Rikushu at close range.
Around the back, you can see the pine trees of Rikushu at close range.
Automatically translated
Written 13 February 2025
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
BSchlemmer
Wetzlar, Germany1,151 contributions
Sept 2024 • Couples
The Golden Temple is also a must on a tour of Kyoto. So we started earlier than usual and were right in front of the line before 9am (opening is at 9am).
Quick admission paid)per person Y500) and with the pull of other tours, groups and school classes in.
What a swarm of crowds. But it was worth it - pictures attached 🥳🤩
Quick admission paid)per person Y500) and with the pull of other tours, groups and school classes in.
What a swarm of crowds. But it was worth it - pictures attached 🥳🤩
Automatically translated
Written 13 September 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Si paga un biglietto per l'accesso? Conviene farlo dall'Italia per saltare le file???
Written 23 June 2024
No need to buy it online. Very large area and no queues due to efficient ticketsales
Written 28 June 2024
I don’t know but if you are in a hotel they can search and let you know
Written 27 December 2019
Will they allow a backpack inside the premises? If not, are there places to store a backpack nearby (like the station, etc)? Thank you.
Written 7 December 2019
Honest opinion required. I have 2 days in Kyoto, and from what I'm reading the temple is good for it's gardens and pictures. So am I really missing out on the experience if I don't visit here? I have been to the Golden Temple in India and that is an actual experience where you can feel the spiritual power.
Written 24 September 2019
We saw a lot of temples - probably too many - but this one was pretty unique because it’s golden. In retrospect, we could’ve skipped several temples, including this one, however, I’m glad we did visit it.
Written 9 November 2019
What is the best time of day to visit the Temple - preferably when there are less people?
Written 12 June 2019
Yes a good time. Mid week and before lunch is my best suggestion . Enjoy
Written 10 July 2019
what is the best way to get to Tempre from Nijo Castle in Bus?
Written 12 April 2019
Purtoppo non ricordo il numero del bus utilizzato, ne abbiamo presi tanti in quei giorni, posso però dirti che usando L app di Google e digitando la destinazione siamo arrivati ovunque!
Mi dispiace non esserti stata più utile!
Written 24 April 2019
Il biglietto di ingresso si prende direttamente li ? C'è molta coda per fare il biglietto ?
Written 22 February 2019
Si il biglietto si acquista direttamente lì, la fila se ci fosse è sempre molto scorrevole..come sempre in giappone
Written 23 February 2019
How to get to Kinkakuji Temple?
Written 9 February 2019
Depending on where you are staying, the best idea would be to use Apple/Google Maps. they both have all of the public transport information for Kyoto including the cost of fares.
Written 9 February 2019
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