Kyoto Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)

Transportation Guide: Public Bus Must-Visit Spot: Kinkaku-ji A trip to Kyoto is incomplete without visiting Kinkaku-ji, also known as the Golden Pavilion. Completed in 1397, this Zen Buddhist temple is located in Kyoto's Kita Ward and belongs to the Rinzai sect's Shokoku-ji school. Its iconic main building, the "Shariden," is adorned with gold leaf, earning it the nickname "Kinkaku" (Golden Pavilion)! Interestingly, the name "Kinkaku-ji" does not represent the entire temple complex. The official name of the temple is "Rokuon-ji," while "Kinkaku" refers specifically to one of its halls. Even "Kinkaku" is a shortened name; its full name is "Shariden." So, don't get confused! Many visitors think the highlight is just the golden Kinkaku, but if that's all you focus on, you'll miss out on other attractions within the temple grounds! Notable spots include Sekkatei (a tea house), Ryumon Falls, Hakujazuka (White Snake Mound), and Rikushu-no-Matsu (a pine tree planted by Shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu, shaped like a sailing ship and now over 600 years old), as well as Gankasui (a spring). On sunny days, every photo angle looks stunning, and you can even capture the pavilion's reflection in the water. When visiting Kyoto, make sure to stop by here. It's easily accessible by bus, which conveniently stops right next to the entrance.