Kinkakuji Temple, also known as Golden Pavilion,
is a Zen Temple in the northern part of Kyoto. It is known
for its top two floors, which are covered in gold leaf.
Kinkakuji Temple is a Zen Temple
where the top two
floors are covered in gold leaf. It is also known as the
Golden Pavilion and is located in the northern part of
Kyoto. It was originally the retirement villa of
Ashikaga
Yoshimitsu, the shogun at the time, but with his
passing
in 1408 the complex was converted into a Zen temple
of
the Rinzai Sect. The building has been burned down
many times in history, but the most recent one was in
1950 when a monk accidentally set the structure on
fire.
Kinkakuji was later rebuilt in 1955.
The gold structure is situated in a place that
overlooks a
giant pond and at the top of the building is a golden
phoenix. When Kinkakuji was built it was during a
time
when extravagance was a sign of the aristocrats.
Around the grounds you can see the former living
quarters of the head priest where there are beautifully
painted sliding doors (fusuma). Unfortunately it is not
open to the public to enter. The Sekkatei Teahouse
was
added to Kinkakuji in Edo Period and can be found
before the exit. You can also relax in the tea area and
enjoy some green tea with a sweet snack.
Please see below for tours that include
Kinkaku-ji Temple (Golden Pavillion):
