Kinkakuji Temple, also known as the Golden Pavilion, is a stunning Zen Buddhist temple located in Kyoto, Japan. It is one of the most popular and iconic tourist attractions in the city, attracting millions of visitors each year. The temple’s striking golden exterior, peaceful gardens, and rich history make it a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Kyoto.
Kinkakuji Temple Opening Hours
The opening hours of Kinkakuji Temple vary depending on the season. During the peak tourist season from March to November, the temple is open from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm. In the winter months from December to February, the temple closes an hour earlier at 4:00 pm. It’s important to note that the temple’s closed on Mondays and during certain holidays, so be sure to check the official website before planning your visit. Or the best way is to book a tour with detailed instructions.
Best Time to Visit Kinkakuji
If you want to avoid the crowds and have a more peaceful experience at Kinkakuji, it’s recommended to visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon. The temple tends to be less crowded during these times, allowing you to fully appreciate its beauty and serenity. Additionally, visiting during the fall season when the leaves change color can provide a breathtaking backdrop for your visit.
Kinkakuji Temple Nearest Station
The nearest station to Kinkakuji is Kitaoji Station, which is about a 10-minute walk away. You can take the Karasuma Subway Line or the Keihan Main Line to get to Kitaoji Station. From there, you can either take a bus or walk to the temple. There are several bus routes that stop near the temple, including bus numbers 101, 102, 204, and 205.
How to Get to Kinkakuji Temple from Kyoto Station
If you are coming from Kyoto Station, the easiest way to get to Kinkakuji is by taking bus number 101 or 205. The journey takes about 40 minutes and costs 230 yen. Alternatively, you can take the Karasuma Subway Line to Kitaoji Station and then walk to the temple.
Kinkakuji Temple History
Kinkakuji’s originally built in 1397 as a retirement villa for shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu. After his death, the villa’s converted into a Zen Buddhist temple according to his wishes. However, the temple’s burned down in 1950 by a young monk who’s obsessed with the temple’s beauty. It’s later rebuilt in 1955 and has since become a symbol of peace and resilience.
Interesting Facts about Kinkakuji Temple
- The top two floors of the temple’re covered in gold leaf, giving it its iconic appearance.
- The temple’s garden is designed to represent the Pure Land of Buddha in the Western Paradise.
- The temple’s official name is Rokuon-ji, which means “Deer Garden Temple.”
- Kinkakuji Temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Kinkakuji Temple Entrance Fee
The entrance fee for Temple is 400 yen for adults and 300 yen for children. This fee includes access to the temple’s main hall and gardens. There is also an option to purchase a combined ticket for 600 yen, which includes entry to both Kinkakuji Temple and nearby Ryoanji Temple.
Tips for Visiting Kinkakuji
- Be sure to wear comfortable shoes as there is a lot of walking involved.
- Respect the temple’s rules and customs, such as removing your shoes before entering the main hall.
- Take your time to explore the temple and its surroundings, as there are many hidden gems to discover.
Kinkakuji Temple to Fushimi Inari
Fushimi Inari Shrine is another popular tourist attraction in Kyoto, known for its thousands of bright orange torii gates. It is located about 8 kilometers away from Kinkakuji, making it a 30-minute drive or a 45-minute train ride. You can take the JR Nara Line from Kitaoji Station to Inari Station, which is just a short walk away from Fushimi Inari Shrine.
Combining Kinkakuji Temple and Fushimi Inari in One Day
If you want to visit both Kinkakuji Temple and Fushimi Inari in one day, it’s recommended to start with Kinkakuji Temple in the morning and then make your way to Fushimi Inari in the afternoon. This will give you enough time to fully experience both attractions without feeling rushed.
Thanks for Reading!
Kinkakuji Temple is a must-visit destination in Kyoto that offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re interested in learning about its rich history, admiring its stunning architecture, or simply taking a peaceful stroll through its gardens, this temple has something for everyone. So be sure to add Kinkakuji Temple to your itinerary when planning your trip to Kyoto.
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