Golden Pavilion (Kinkakuji)

Kinkaku-ji is formally named Rokuon-ji and is a sub-temple (tatchū) of the Rinzai sect’s Shōkoku-ji school. It originated from the “Kitayama-dono,” a mountain villa built by Ashikaga Yoshimitsu, the 3rd shogun of the Muromachi shogunate, and was registered as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site in 1994. From Kyoto Station, take a city bus and get off at “Kinkakuji-michi,” then walk about 5 minutes. The temple’s name comes from the golden Shariden (the “Golden Pavilion”), which shines brilliantly. The Shariden is three stories; the 2nd and 3rd stories are covered in gold leaf over lacquer, and the roof is topped with a gilded phoenix. A key feature is that each floor uses a different architectural style: 1st is shinden-zukuri (aristocratic residence style), 2nd is buke-zukuri (samurai residence style), and 3rd is a Zen-style Buddhist hall. Be sure to photograph the reflection in Kyōko-chi pond, known as the “upside-down Kinkaku.” The surrounding strolling garden is designated a Special Place of Scenic Beauty and Special Historic Site, making it ideal for a leisurely walk. Note that the pavilion burned down in an arson attack in 1950 and the current structure was rebuilt in 1955; the incident inspired Yukio Mishima’s novel “The Temple of the Golden Pavilion.” Northeast of the pavilion is the small three-mat teahouse “Sekka-tei,” said to be named for how the Golden Pavilion glows in the evening sun.