Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion Temple)

Commonly known as the Golden Pavilion Temple because of its characteristic golden colour, this Zen Buddhist temple is one of the most visited sights in Kyoto. It belongs among the UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

The temple's history reaches back to the 14th century AD, when it was bought by Shogun Yoshimitsu to be used as his home. After his death in 1397, the building was turned into a temple. In the following years, the temple was destroyed and rebuilt repeatedly. The last series of reconstructions were made in 1955 and 1987.

Notice how the three floors of the temple each seem a little different. This is because each was done in a different architectural style.

After you are done exploring the temple, take a stroll in the magnificent gardens that surround it. They are designed in the style of the Muromachi period.

When visiting, keep in mind that the temple is often crowded. You may enjoy a more serene atmosphere if you come as early in the morning as possible.