1 Kinkakujicho, Kita Ward, Kyoto, 603-8361, Japan

Kinkaku-ji is a temple located in the heart of Kyoto, Japan.

Although officially named Rokuon-ji, this Zen Buddhist temple is one of the most famous buildings in all of Japan. The temple is also known as the Temple of the Golden Pavilion. On days where the breeze blows calmly, the reflection of the pond resembles a mirror and visitors can see the pavilion perfectly in the water.

Kinkakuji was built to echo the opulent Kitayama culture that flourished among the wealthy aristocrats of Kyoto during Yoshimitsu's time. Each floor represents a different architectural style.

The first floor is built in the Shinden style used for palace buildings during the Heian Period, and with natural wood pillars and white plaster walls contrasting but complementing the gilded upper floors of the pavilion. Statues of Buddha Shaka and Yoshimitsu are housed on the first floor. Although visitors are not permitted to enter the room, the statues can be seen from across the pool, as the first floor front window usually remains open.

The second floor was built in the Bukke style used in samurai homes, and the exterior is completely covered in gold leaf. Inside is the seated Kannon Bodhisattva surrounded by statues of the Four Heavenly Kings.

Finally, the third and top floor is built in the style of a Chinese Zen Hall, gilded inside and out, and topped with a golden phoenix. The Kinkakuji complex and grounds are open to the public from 09.00 to 17.00 local time, every day without holidays. Admission is 400 yen for adults and 300 yen for elementary and middle school students.

Take the Karasuma Line from JR Kyoto station to Kita-Oji station (approx. 14 minutes). Walk 2 minutes from Kita-Oji station to Kitaoji Bus Terminal, where a number of Kyoto City Buses (#101, 102, 204, or 205) will take you to Kinkakuji-michi bus stop (approx. a 10 minute bus ride).