Highlights of Kinkaku-ji
Kinkaku-ji is a temple of the Shōkoku-ji branch of Rinzai Zen, originating from a mountain villa built by Ashikaga Yoshimitsu, the 3rd shogun of the Muromachi shogunate. Its official name is Rokuon-ji. Highlights include Kyōkochi Pond, which reflects the shariden “Kinkaku,” and the garden that continues to convey the Kitayama culture of the Muromachi period.
Kinkaku Reliquary Hall and Kyōkochi Pond
The shariden is viewed from the far side of Kyōkochi Pond. It combines different architectural styles: the first story evokes shinden-zukuri, the second samurai-style architecture, and the third Zen Buddhist temple architecture. The second and third stories are covered in gold leaf, and a phoenix stands atop the roof.
Snow-covered Kinkaku
The white snow, golden shariden, and surface of Kyōkochi Pond create a contrast of colors unlike that of any other season.
Garden Route and Sekka-tei
Beyond the Shariden are Ginga-sen, a spring whose water Ashikaga Yoshimitsu is said to have used for tea; Ganka-sui, where he reportedly washed his hands; and Anmin-taku, a pond with a different character from Kyōkochi Pond. The elevated Sekka-tei teahouse overlooks the temple grounds.
Basic information about Kinkaku-ji
The information below was checked against official sources on September 30, 2026. Please also check the latest information on the official website when planning your trip.
- 🔗 Official website
- Check the latest visitor information and conditions.
アクセス | 金閣寺 | 臨済宗相国寺派アクセス：正式名称を鹿苑寺といい、相国寺の塔頭寺院の一つ。舎利殿「金閣」が特に有名なため一般的に金閣寺と呼ばれています。www.shokoku-ji.jp - 📍 Location
- 1 Kinkakuji-chō, Kita Ward, Kyoto, Japan
- 🕐 Visiting hours
- 9:00–17:00. Open year-round, although hours may change during special viewings.
- 💴 Admission
- High school students and adults 500 yen; elementary and junior high school students 300 yen. Fees may differ during special viewings.
- ⏱ Recommended time
- Allow approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour to complete the route around the grounds.
The time required varies depending on crowd levels and the extent of the visit.
Getting to Kinkaku-ji
Public transportation
Get off at the Kyoto City Bus stop “Kinkakuji-michi.” Since traffic congestion may affect the journey, you may also want to consider combining train and bus.
For detailed route information, please check the transportation guide on the official website.
For attractions, transport and suggested itineraries, see “Kyoto: A guide to attractions, food, transportation, and suggested itineraries”.
