Kinkaku-ji, the famed “Golden Pavilion,” is Kyoto’s most iconic sight. It’s well worth a visit, just try to pick a time when the crowds aren’t there.
Kinkaku-ji golden temple pavilion
Rising above its reflecting pond like an apparition, the golden hall of Kinkaku-ji is Kyoto’s most impressive sight, especially if you’re there on the four or five days per year when it’s covered in snow. The only problem is, as you might guess, that it’s almost always packed with visitors. For these reason, we recommend going just after it opens, just after it closes and, if possible on a Monday morning. Whatever you do, avoid the place on holidays, when it will simply be too busy to enjoy.
English address:
1 Kinkaku-ji-cho, Kita-ku
Japanese address:
北区金閣寺町1
Opening hours:
9am-5pm
Admission:
Adults: 400
Junior high and elementary school students: 300
Non-smoking area: Yes
Nearest Transport:
In front of Kinkaku-ji-mae Bus Stop, Kyoto City Bus 205 from Kyoto Station
Nearest Hotels:
:: Check availability and pricing for hotels near Kinkaku-ji Temple on Booking.com or Agoda.com.
Telephone: 461-0013
Website:
Official Website (Japanese)
Near To Here:
Kinkaku-ji Temple is located in Northwest Kyoto. See our complete list of things to do in Northwest Kyoto, including places to eat, nightlife and places to stay.
Where Is This Place Located?
See these places on our Kyoto Google map:- Open the Kyoto map
- You will see the list of places on the left hand side. (Click the 3-line icon in the top left corner if not). Scroll down or use the map search (the magnifying glass icon) to find the place you want.
- Click the name of the place in the list. Its location pin will be highlighted on the map.
- Map pins are color coded - BLUE: Hotels | VIOLET: Ryokan | PINK: Places to Eat | YELLOW: Things to See and Do
- If you're using the map on your phone, open the map and then search for the name of the place. The map will then zoom in on its location.
Kyoto Vacation Checklist
- For all the essentials in a brief overview, see my First Time In Kyoto guide
- Check Kyoto accommodation availability on Booking.com and Agoda.com - often you can book with no upfront payment and free cancellation
- You can buy shinkansen (bullet train) tickets online from Klook - popular routes include Tokyo to Kyoto, Kyoto to Osaka and Kyoto to Tokyo
- Need tips on where to stay? See my one page guide Where To Stay In Kyoto
- See my comprehensive Packing List For Japan
- You can buy an eSim to activate in Japan or buy a data-only SIM card online for collection when you arrive at Tokyo's Narita or Haneda Airports or Kansai International Airport. You can also rent an unlimited data pocket wifi router
- Compare Japan flight prices and timings to find the best deals
- If you're making frequent train journeys during your visit, you might save money with Japan Rail Pass – see if it's worth it for you
- World Nomads offers simple and flexible travel insurance. Buy at home or while traveling and claim online from anywhere in the world
- Do you want help planning your trip? Chris Rowthorn and his team of Japan experts at Japan Travel Consulting can help
