Kinkaku-ji Temple

Temple Kyoto-shi, Kyoto, Japan
Visit website

What to expect

Kinkaku-ji, also known as the Golden Pavilion, is a Zen Buddhist temple in Kyoto, Japan. The temple's top two floors are completely covered in gold leaf, and it is a popular tourist attraction. The current pavilion was rebuilt in 1955 after being destroyed in an arson attack. The temple grounds include a large pond, gardens, and several other buildings, including a teahouse and a small temple hall. The Golden Pavilion is a three-story building with each floor representing a different style of architecture. The first floor is built in the Shinden style, the second floor in the Bukke style, and the third floor in the style of a Chinese Zen Hall. The pavilion is capped with a golden phoenix, and the interior features statues and paintings. The temple is a great place to visit for its beautiful architecture, gardens, and historical significance

Plan your family visit to the Kinkaku-ji Temple with these blog insights 👇

family travel blog favicon

The authentic Japanese Kansai family tour

The authentic Japanese Kansai family tour
This family's experience:

Activities: We visited the golden pavilion where the relics of Buddha’s body are enshrined inside the temple

Highlights: The kids loved the unique feature of Kinkaku-ji, where visitors are given a vermillion seal with a blessing instead of an entrance ticket ✨

family travel blog favicon

Kyoto with kids: 7 sights in a row!

Kyoto with kids: 7 sights in a row!
This family's experience:

Activities: We visited this temple and its golden temple that was located by the water

Highlights: We enjoyed the photogenic spots ✨