Kinkaku-ji: All that glitters is indeed, gold

A golden silhouette reflected on the still water, against the backdrop of lush greenery—the image is simple, yet peacefully zen. This is the world-renowned Kinkaku-ji, or “Golden Pavilion”, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in northwestern Kyoto. 

Officially named Rokuon-ji, the structure used to be the retirement residence for the military leader Ashikaga Yoshimitsu. After his death, it was converted into a Zen Buddhist temple, housing the relics of Buddha. The design of the building, with its pure-gold-leaf-covered top two stories mirrored in the adjacent Kyoko-chi Pond, is said to represent the Buddhist view of paradise. It is no wonder that visiting Kinkaku-ji, most naturally, evokes a sense of serenity and rejuvenation. The phoenix statue, the symbol of rebirth perching atop the temple, probably says it all. 

Tips

• Kyoto City Bus would be the most direct way to reach Kinkaku-ji, as the temple is not located near major train lines. Read more about transportation options: https://www.kyotostation.com/traveling-from-kyoto-station-to-the-golden-pavilion-of-kinkakuji-temple/
• Kinkaku-ji is open daily from 9AM to 5PM. The best time to visit would be late afternoon or during the golden hours, when the sun casts directly on the pavilion and further accentuates the “golden” effect. 

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