Kinkaku-ji, the Golden Pavilion, is a temple in the north-west of Kyoto, and it is one of the best-known sights in the city. The area around it is quieter than central Kyoto. Plan a morning visit to the pavilion, then add one or two nearby temples and a walk through the local streets. Go early, because the pavilion is busy from the middle of the morning.
The Kyoto city page gives an overview of the city. This guide covers the part of Kyoto around the Golden Pavilion, which is called Kita, with Kinkaku-ji and Kitano.
What the pavilion is
The pavilion is covered in gold leaf and stands beside a pond. It reflects in the water, and this view is the one most visitors come for. The path around the pond is short, and it takes a short time to walk. Most visitors take photos at the water's edge and move on.
Check first: Check the opening hours, the entry fee and any booking rule of Kinkaku-ji on its official website before you go. Do not rely on an old article for either.
How to get there
The area has buses but few trains. Most visitors take a bus from Kyoto Station or from the centre of the city. The bus stop is a short walk from the temple gate. Buses can be full in the morning and in the afternoon, so buy a day pass or an IC card, and check the bus map before you board.
If you plan many bus rides, read the guide to Kyoto's first day for the main routes around the city.
Plan a half day
A half day in the north-west works well. Start at the pavilion early, then walk to a second temple nearby. Good choices are a temple with a large dry garden and a temple with a shrine and a shop. Keep the walks short, and choose one or two places, not five.
- Go to the pavilion first, when it is quieter.
- Walk to a nearby temple or shrine by a short path through the streets.
- Stop for lunch at a small local restaurant. Use Tabelog to find one that suits your group.
- Take a bus back to the centre in the afternoon.
Other temples nearby
The north-west has several temples within reach of each other. Some are large and busy, and others are small and quiet. Check each one's opening times and entry rules before you go, because they can differ by season and by building.
Keep your visit respectful. Remove your shoes only when a sign asks you to. Keep your voice low in the grounds, and follow the signs for photos. Some buildings do not allow photos inside.
Check first: Check the rules for photos, shoes and visiting times at each temple. Some halls close early, and some areas are open only at set times.
Who this suits
The north-west suits couples who want temples, gardens and a calm walk. It also suits families, because the pace is slower than in central Kyoto and the streets are less crowded. It is less suited to travellers who want rail links at the door, or a busy evening with many bars. If you want a short walk to the train, stay in central Kyoto and take a bus for the day.
Tips for the visit
- Wear comfortable shoes. Some paths and steps are uneven.
- Bring water. Vending machines are common, but a shop can be far away.
- Plan your return bus before you leave the temple, because stops can be busy.
- Keep your bag closed in crowded places.
Crowds and timing
The north-west is busy in spring and in autumn, when the blossom and the leaves draw large groups. In these seasons, go at the opening time, and walk to your second place before the tour groups arrive. Weekday mornings are quieter than weekends.
Avoid the middle of the day at the most popular temples. The paths fill up, and the queues at the entrances can be long. If the crowds are heavy, reverse your plan and visit the quieter temple first.
What to do next
The Golden Pavilion works well on a morning out. Use the planner to check your route and the time of your visit. Then read the Kyoto city page for the other districts, and the Kita: Kinkaku-ji and Kitano area page for the basic facts about the area.
