Kinkakuji Temple in Kyoto – Highlights & Personal photos.

2023-12-082024-08-31

Kinkakuji Temple is as one of the most iconic tourist attractions in Kyoto, it is a spot that you absolutely cannot miss. The centerpiece of Kinkaku-ji Temple is undoubtedly the golden Shariden, commonly known as Kinkaku. The structure is said to have been constructed to evoke images of the Buddhist paradise. Its beauty is nothing short of breathtaking. If you are visiting Kyoto for the first time, the place I recommend most is Kinkakuji Temple.

This article will share the highlights of Kinkakuji Temple, along with some personal photographs.

Getting To Kinkakuji Temple from Kyoto Station

The most convenient way to reach Kinkakuji Temple from Kyoto Station is by bus, as there is no nearby train station. From the closest station, it would take about 20 to 40-minute on foot. The bus takes about 45 minutes from Kyoto Station Bus Terminal to Kinkakuji Temple.

STEP

Board bus number 205 from B3 bus stop at Kyoto Station Bus Terminal.

The bus terminal is located right next to the central exit of Kyoto Station on the north side. Follow the “Bus” signs located throughout Kyoto Station to the bus terminal. The photo above is the bus terminal.

Look for the pillar marked B3 and the bus number is 205. Be careful not to board a bus with a different number.

STEP

Disembark at Kinkakuji-michi bus stop.

It takes approximately 35 minutes to get here from Kyoto Station.

STEP

From the bus stop, walk about 200 meters, which takes about 3 minutes.

The bus stop is conveniently located near Kinkakuji Temple.

The picture above is of the main gate to Kinkakuji Temple. You’ll notice a stone monument there, commemorating Kinkakuji’s registration as a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Highlights of Kinkakuji Temple

Upon entering through the main gate and past the ticket office, the shining golden Shariden (Kinkaku) will greet you. Originally constructed in the 14th century, Kinkakuji Temple has undergone two significant reconstructions, first in 1694 and again in 1950. In recognition of its historical and cultural significance, it was registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1994.

This three-story building is an architectural marvel, with each floor reflecting a different era and style: The first floor, designed in the style of Kyoto’s ancient aristocratic residences, symbolizing the purifying nature of water. The second floor, reminiscent of samurai residences of the late 12th century to early 14th century, represents the distant truth, akin to the sound of the sea. The third floor, influenced by Chinese temple architecture, embodies the idea of ultimate enlightenment.

Not only does the gold create a stunning effect, but the three styles harmonize perfectly to create a beautiful exterior. Covered in gold during a restoration between 1986 and 1987, it is said that 20 kg were used to create the stunning and dazzling effect. Applied in two layers, it contributes to the temple’s opulent appearance, which ran a construction cost of over 700 million yen.

A golden phoenix shines on the roof, fully expressing its luxury. A phoenix is an imaginary animal that originates from China. In China, it is considered one of the four spirits (giraffe, phoenix, turtle, and dragon) and is said to bring happiness and peace to people.

There are several other attractions on the grounds. Rikushu-matsu, a 600-year-old pine tree, is among the three major pine trees in Kyoto. Shaped like a boat with sails, it points westward towards the Shariden, symbolizing a journey to the Western Buddhist paradise.

Further on is a waterfall with water cascading from a height of about 2.3 meters. It also features a stone representing an ancient Chinese legend of a carp transforming into a dragon. A stone tilted diagonally near the basin of the waterfall represents the shape of a carp trying to jump up.

The picture above is of White Snake Mound. It is another popular power spot consisting of a five layered pagoda atop a small island in the middle of a pond. From far, it looks like a white snake sitting straight up. The white snake is said to be the god of entertainment and good fortune, and is said to bring prosperity to the family. Each of the five layers of the pagoda symbolizes one of the five elements of Buddhism: earth, water, fire, wind, and sky.

At the end of the route, visitors will find a tea room rebuilt in 1874. In the Japanese tea ceremony, the tea room serves as a space for the host to entertain guests with tea, symbolizing hospitality and cultural tradition.