basic information

Kinkakuji (Golden Pavilion) is a Zen temple formally known as Rokuonji.

In 1397 construction started on the Golden Pavilion as part of a new residence for the retired shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu. Kinkakuji was converted into a Zen temple after Yoshimitsu's death in 1408.

The Golden Pavilion functions as shariden, housing sacred relics of the Buddha and is covered in gold leaf. The present building dates from 1955 as the pavilion was burnt by a fanatic monk in 1950.

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how to get there

Kinkakuji can be accessed by direct bus number 101 or 205 from Kyoto Station. A faster variant is taking the Karasuma Subway Line to Kitaoji Station from where the temple can be reached in a short bus or taxi ride.

Orientation in Kyoto

Hours: 9:30 to 17:00
Admission: 400 Yen

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1st of 41 most visited sights in Kyoto.
10th of 430 most visited sights nationwide.

VIDEO Kyoto - Beyond Gion Look around and explore beyond the downtown geisha districts.

hotels & ryokan

Tomiya Ryokan A traditional Japanese inn located 2 min walk from Kyoto Station. Close to bus terminal for all the attractions. Guest Inn Chita A small traditional inn run by a very kind staff. From 3500yen per guest. 10 min from Kyoto Station. Renewed in 2006. Gion Hatanaka A real Japanese inn in a quiet area of Gion, famous for Geisha. 15min walk to Kiyomizu-dera. 5min to Yasaka-jinja. Backpackers Hostel K's House Kyoto Voted No.1 hostel in Asia by Hostelworld customers. 9 mins walk from JR Kyoto station Bed from 2,500 yen. Ryokan Kinoe A comfort ryokan in Gion District. Quality services. 5 min to Gion Corner, Yasaka Jinja. Ponto-cho, Kiyomizu-dera nearby. Hotel Sugicho A ryokan in the center of Kyoto town. From 4000yen. 4 train stations are within walking distance. Try the Kyoto Kaiseki. Kyoto White Hotel From 4,150 yen per night. 3 minutes from JR Kyoto station.

tours and packages

Kyoto Tours Various English tours of Kyoto and surroundings. Atlas Japan Tour Customized tours emphasizing cultural experiences and communication to find real Japan. Education and exchange program available.

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