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Kinkaku-ji 1 Kinkakujicho, Kita Ward, Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture 603-8361, Japan ☎ +81 75-461-0013 Last Updated: 09/12/2023 |
| Kinkaku-ji, also known as the Golden Pavilion, is a renowned Zen Buddhist temple located in Kyoto, Japan. It is celebrated for its stunning architecture and its reflective pond, which creates a picturesque and reflective setting. The garden complex is an excellent example of Muromachi period garden design. | |
| Location: Kinkaku-ji is situated in the northern part of Kyoto, in the Kita-ku district. It is surrounded by beautiful gardens and is set against the backdrop of the Higashiyama Mountains. History: Kinkaku-ji has a rich history dating back to the 14th century. It was originally built as a retirement villa for Ashikaga Yoshimitsu, the third shogun of the Ashikaga shogunate. After his death, in accordance with his will, the villa was converted into a Zen Buddhist temple. Architecture: The most distinctive feature of Kinkaku-ji is its upper two stories, which are covered in gold leaf, giving it a brilliant and radiant appearance. The temple's design is a harmonious blend of traditional Japanese architectural styles, including Shinden, Samurai, and Zen. Reflective Pond: Kinkaku-ji is situated beside a large pond named Kyoko-chi (Mirror Pond), which perfectly reflects the temple's golden facade, creating a breathtaking and ethereal sight. The reflection on the water's surface adds to the temple's beauty and serenity. Gardens: The temple is surrounded by meticulously landscaped gardens that change with the seasons. Cherry blossoms in spring and vibrant foliage in autumn enhance the temple's visual appeal. Zen Buddhism: Kinkaku-ji is a Zen Buddhist temple of the Rinzai school. Visitors can appreciate the temple's architectural beauty while experiencing a sense of tranquility and contemplation. Kannonden: The main hall of Kinkaku-ji, called the Kannonden, is where visitors can offer prayers and view Buddhist relics. It is adorned with exquisite artwork and calligraphy. Access: Kinkaku-ji is easily accessible from central Kyoto by bus or taxi. It is a popular destination for tourists and can get crowded, particularly during peak seasons. Hours and Fees: The temple is typically open to visitors during daylight hours, and there is an admission fee to enter the temple grounds. Souvenir Shops: There are souvenir shops near the temple where visitors can purchase mementos and gifts. Visiting Tips: To fully appreciate the beauty of Kinkaku-ji, it's advisable to visit during different seasons to see the changing scenery. Early morning visits can also offer a more serene experience with fewer crowds. Kinkaku-ji is not only a symbol of Kyoto but also a symbol of Japan's rich cultural and architectural heritage. It is a must-visit destination for those exploring Kyoto, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and artistic achievement that has captivated visitors for centuries. | |
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Japan » Kyoto
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Kyoto Place » City Kyoto is the capital city of Kyoto Prefecture in Japan. Kyoto's 2018 population was 1,468,980. It served as Japan's capital and the emperor's residence from 794 until 1868. It is one of the country's ten largest cities with a population of 1.5 million people and a modern face 169 views 💖 1Japan |
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Ryoan-Ji Place » Temple RyÅan-ji is a Zen temple located in northwest Kyoto, Japan. It belongs to the MyÅshin-ji school of the Rinzai branch of Zen Buddhism. Ryoanji Temple is the site of Japan's most famous rock garden, which attracts hundreds of visitors every day. An interesting feature of the garden's design is that from any vantage point at least one of the rocks is always hidden from the viewer. 387 views 💖 513 Ryoanji Goryonoshitacho, Ukyo Ward, Kyoto, 616-8001, Japan |
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Kiyomizu-dera Place » Temple Kiyomizu-dera is the temple of the Goddess of Mercy, a symbol of religious belief for more than 1,200 years. Kiyomizudera, literally Pure Water Temple, is one of the most celebrated temples of Japan. It was founded in 780 on the site of the Otowa Waterfall in the wooded hills east of Kyoto, and derives its name from the fall's pure waters. 393 views 💖 6294 Kiyomizu, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, 605-0862, Japan |
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Ginkaku-ji Place » Temple Ginkaku-ji, officially named JishÅ-ji, is a Zen temple in the Sakyo ward of Kyoto, Japan. It is one of the constructions that represent the Higashiyama Culture of Muromachi period. 391 views 💖 62 Ginkakujicho, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture 606-8402, Japan |