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Bucket list experience:

Last updated: 05 November, 2022
Expert travel writer: Rob Goss

First built in 1397 as a shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu’s retirement villa, but then transformed into a Zen temple upon his death in 1408, no sight better highlights the former capital’s glory than this gilded temple casting a shimmering reflection into its islet-studded pond.

Taking in the view while strolling Kinkakuji’s garden pathways is a timeless experience. So, despite having UNESCO World Heritage status, it can be a surprise to hear that the current structure only dates to 1955. That’s when Kinkakuji was rebuilt after being burnt down by a crazed monk in 1950.

Hats off to the artisans who painstakingly recreated it – it’s stunning

Price: Free
Minimum age: Any
Age suitable: 13+
When: All year around

Getting there & doing it

Like most Kyoto sites, Kinkakuji is easy to do by yourself. The only issue can be working out how best to get there. As with other attractions in north-western Kyoto, use the city’s extensive bus network. From the bus terminal at Kyoto Station, take the number 101 or 205 bus roughly 40 minutes to Kinkakuji-michi. From the central Shijo-dori area, take bus number 12.

You’ll follow a set route that takes in the view across the pond, the head priest’s former living quarters which are known for their painted sliding doors, through the temple’s gardens to the Sekkatei Teahouse.

When to do it

Kinkakuji Temple is open all year round, seven days a week. As it’s an outdoor attraction, avoid the oppressive heat and humidity of July and August, or take precautions against heatstroke.

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Our writer’s picks of the best places to stay near this experience, closest first

Aman Kyoto

Kyoto, Kansai, Japan[1.3 miles]

Traditional inn meets luxury wellness retreat at this uber-exclusive hotel. Special extras include mineral-rich hot-spring baths and an evening with the geisha of Kyoto’s oldest chaya (teahouse).

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Ace Hotel Kyoto

Kyoto, Kansai, Japan[4.3 miles]

A plush hipster hangout smack in the heart of central Kyoto, ideal for arty and creative types.

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Miru Kyoto Nishiki

Kyoto, Kansai, Japan[4.9 miles]

Old-Kyoto meets contemporary Japan at this centrally located boutique hotel geared to budget-conscious travelers.

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BnA Alter Museum

Kyoto, Kansai, Japan[5.6 miles]

One for art aficionados – a minimalist boutique that’s a living art gallery. All rooms are created by local artists.

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Destination guides including or relevant to this experience

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Ancient temples and shrines, sublime cuisine, manicured gardens, colourful geishas and living history in spades – Kyoto is traditional Japan at its best.

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Kyoto’s historic Gion quarter is the place to see Japan’s mysterious and enigmatic geisha. Dressed in colourful kimonos, complimented by elaborate hairstyles and oshiroi make-up, they’ve been entertaining Japan’s wealthy and well-connected for centuries.

Best for ages: 10+ | Free

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Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

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The towering stalks and soft light of Arashiyama’s much-photographed bamboo grove make this iconic Kyoto sight an almost otherworldly experience.

Best for ages: 4+ | £3

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One of Japan’s most sacred shrines, Fushimi Inari’s thousands of torii gateways also make it one of the country’s most Instagrammable sights.

Best for ages: 6+ | £2

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Yasaka Shrine

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The shrine that protects the Gion geisha district is one of Kyoto’s most distinctive sights. Entered through a roofed gateway painted a vivid vermillion, its grounds include a striking dance stage—used for performances during festivals—that’s adorned with several hundred lanterns lit each evening.

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Saihoji Temple

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A Buddhist Zen temple and UNESCO World Heritage Site best known for its unusual, atmospheric moss garden that circles a symbolically-shaped golden pond. Just getting in is an experience – you’re given a written sutra to copy it out onto another piece of paper to ensure you are pure enough to enter!

Best for ages: 13+ | Free

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Round-ups that include this experience

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