Overview
Kinkaku-ji, also known as the Golden Pavilion, is a Zen Buddhist temple whose top two stories are completely covered in gold leaf. It is one of the most iconic landmarks in Kyoto, Japan.
Kinkaku-ji is a very important site in Japanese history and culture, and is a designated National Special Landscape and Historic Site.
Location
Address
1 Kinkakujicho, Kita, Kyoto
Neighborhood: Kita-ku
Coordinates
35.042200, 135.750600
Visiting Information
Opening Hours
Admission
Best Time to Visit
Overall Best Period
October-November
Best Time of Day
Early morning
fewer crowds, better lighting for photos
Duration Recommendations
Seasonal Highlights
spring
mild to warm
- • cherry blossoms
- • gardens
summer
hot and humid
- • extended hours
autumn
cool and pleasant
- • autumn foliage
winter
cold
- • holiday lights
Know Before You Go
Essential Information
- Book tickets in advance
- Dress respectfully
- Check weather conditions
What to Bring
essential
recommended
seasonal
not allowed
Health & Safety
Physical Requirements: moderate
- • stairs
- • uneven paths
Medical facilities: first aid available on-site
Payment Information
Accepted
cash, credit cards
Currency
Japanese Yen (JPY)
Typical Costs
Dress Code
casual and respectful, comfortable shoes, walking shoes, inappropriate clothing, revealing clothing
Booking Tips
- • 1-2 weeks
- • official website
- • 48 hours
- • available
Amenities
Digital Services
Mobile App
Kinkaku-ji Official App
Size: 30 MB
Features: Map, Audio guide, Tickets
Platforms: iOS, Android
WiFi Zones: Visitor center, Cafe
Charging Stations: Rest areas
How to Reach
From Airport
Nearest: Kansai International Airport
Distance: 120 km
Travel Time: 2 hours
From City Center
Distance: 5 km
Local Insights
Cultural Context
Why Locals Love It: Historic importance, beautiful gardens
Historical Significance: Built as a retirement villa for the shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu, later converted to a temple
Insider Tips
- Best views from the back of the pavilion
- Local cafes offer great matcha
Local Recommendations
- • Try matcha at the nearby café
- • Ask for a guide in Japanese
Language Help
Useful Phrases
Guide Languages: Japanese, English, Chinese
Photography Guide
Best Photo Spots
Golden Pavilion
Best Time: Golden hour
Tips: Low angle
Result: Stunning reflection on the pond
Photography Rules
Nearby Attractions
Ryoan-ji Temple
Distance: 1.5km
Walking: 20 min
Type: Temple
Nijo Castle
Distance: 3km
Walking: 40 min
Type: Castle
Reviews
Based on 15,000 reviews
Recent Visitor Tips
- "Book online"
- "Visit early"
- "Great views"
Contact Information
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Quick Info
Available Tours
250
Rating
4.7 / 5.0
Reviews
15,000
Adult Entry
¥400