Last updated on September 14th, 2024

Kinkakuji also called Gold Pavilion is one of the unique and must-visit temples in Kyoto and Japan. A trip to Kinkakuji is part of my visit to Arashiyama in 3 days Kyoto itinerary.

Kyoto has many historical important temples and shrines. All have their unique atmospheres and aesthetic appeals. Among them, Kinkakuji, also called as Golden Pavilion is one of the top attractions of Kyoto. A trip to Kinkakuji will never disappoint you. This stunning pavilion is famous for its unique gold shiny color and perfectly situated aside from a lovely lake and Japanese garden.

A trip to Kinkakuji is part of my Arashiyama itinerary in Kyoto. It is ideal to visit both Kinkaji and Ginkakuji temples in one day. But there are too many things to do and see in Kyoto. It is even worst especially since our Kyoto trip is during the cherry blossom season. After discussion, we decided to visit Kinkakuji and keep Ginkakuji for our next Kyoto trip. If you have more time, you may consider visiting its brother temple, Ginkakuji.

Take a look at our visit to Kinkakuji. Moreover, we also included the transportation guide on how to go to Kinkakuji.

Kinkakuji vs Ginkakuji

That is to say, Kinkakuji (Gold Pavilion) and Ginkakuji (Silver Pavilion) are two of the most famous temples in Kyoto. Both are great to put into your Kyoto itinerary when visiting Kansai Japan. Keep reading on some history on these two historical temples.

The Kinkakuji, Golden Pavilion is a gold shinning zen temple which overlooking a large pond. It was originally built as a retirement villa of Shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu and become a temple after his death. This golden temple was burnt down numerous in the history and last present rebuild in 1955. The best time to visit Kinkakuji is on sunny days with golden sun reflect the stunning architecture of the temple.

• Opening Hours: 09:00 – 17:00
• Entrance fee: ¥400
• Official site: https://www.shokoku-ji.jp/kinkakuji/

While the Ginkakuji, Silver Pavilion is also a Zen temple that was built in 1482 by Shogun Ashikaga Yoshimasa as a retirement home. Unlike Kinkakuji with gold leaf-covered, Ginkakuji was never covered in silver. It is best to admire the Japanese culture with historical buildings, a beautiful Japanese garden, and a unique sand art garden. It is part of the popular Philosopher Walk Path and can be easily reached on foot from Nanzenji.

• Opening Hours: 08:30 – 17:00
• Entrance fee: ¥500
• Official website: https://www.shokoku-ji.jp/ginkakuji/

How To Go To Kinkakuji

Kinkakuji located at the northwest part of Kyoto. Similar to other attractions in Kyoto, there are no major train lines nearby. So the best way to get to Kinkakuji is by bus. It can be easily reached by Kyoto City Bus from Kyoto station.

From Kyoto station to Kinkakuji: Get off at Kinkakuji-michi Stop by Kyoto city bus (#101) and (#205). The bus journey is about 40 minutes with 230 yen.

Alternative, Kinkakuji is best coupled into a day trip together with Arashiyama. Well, the best transportation option is directly to get there by taxi. But for budget traveler, you can get to Kinkakuji from Arashiyama by train and then transfer with a short journey bus ride.

From Arashiyama to Kinkakaji:

• By taxi ride with about 1000-2000 yen.
• By JR train from Saga-Arashiyama station to Emmachi station. Next, take a bus ride (#205) to Kinkakuji bus stop. It cost about 400 yen with a short walk. 
• By Keifuku Electric Railway (Randen-Kitano tram) to Kitano-Hakubaicho with one-time transfer. Next, walk about 15 minutes to Kinkakuji. Alternatively, take the bus (#102), (#204) and (#205) to Kinkakuji-michi.

Our Trip To Kinkakuji

Kinkakuji is part of our day trip to Arashiyama. The best time to visit Kinkakuji is early morning due to its popularity. It can be very crowded at the afternoon with school buses and organized tours. However, the Sagano scenic train ride required to choose on the time slot during purchase. For the best Kyoto itinerary arrangement, we decided to visit Arashiyama in the morning and only get to Kinkakuji in late afternoon.

As a result, we departed from Arashiyama to Kinkakuji at around 2 p.m. From JR Arashiyama station, we took the JR train from Saga-Arashiyama station to Emmachi station. Next, we transferred to a bus ride (#205) to Kinkakuji. Once you get off at the train station, there is a sign directing to the bus stop to catch the bus to the Kinkakuji. It is quite simple and straightforward. However, the bus ride probably be busy. But honestly, an unavoidable experience when visiting Kyoto. So be prepared.

Perfect Reflection of Kinkakuji

First of all, we were amazed by the main attraction Kinkakuji once entered into Kinkakuji. There are so many different temples and shrines in Kyoto, but I must admit Kinkakuji is something different.

The Zen temple is completely covered in gold leaf with golden shiny color. It situated perfectly aside lake and surrounded by a Japanese garden. The reflection of the temple was so picturesque and stunning. No doubt, a beautiful sight.

Next, follow the path and walk around the lake. This will ensure you get excellent views from different perspectives. It’s easy to get good pictures but there were too many people surrounded. So be patient and wait. You will find the best picture-perfect spot with a full view of the Temple. Take note no tripod allow inside Kinkakuji.

Lastly, there are some adequate souvenirs and rest stops along the way. You can have some rest or try the Japanese sweets and snacks here. Alternatively, enjoy a cup of green tea at a small tea house.

To sum up, it only took us about 1 hour to walk through around the Kinkakuji temple. That is to say, it was a long journey trip to get there for a very short time spent to mesmerize this stunning shrine. However, Kinkakuji is still rated as one of the must-visit in my Kyoto itinerary. Most importantly, you need to decide if a trip to Kinkakuji is worth for you. Happy travel to Kyoto!

Where To Stay

Need help on the best hotel in Kyoto? We recommended staying nearby the Kyoto station for easy moving around. Here are some of the best hotels in Kyoto if you are looking at the best accommodation nearby Kyoto station.

For a budget traveler, Pieces Hostel Kyoto is your best budget hotel in Kyoto. It is a great option with a beautiful design hostel with clean room at a reasonable price. Strategically located with less than 5 minutes’ walk from Kyoto station. Meanwhile, there even have their second branch Pieces Hostel Sanjo if you prefer to stay in the downtown area.

Alternatively, you can also check out the Daiwa Royal Hotel Grande Kyoto. It is reputation Japan chain hotel with great sized room and professional staff. It has a variety of room choices that cater to solo, couple and family.

Read more

Lastly, if you’re heading to Kyoto, feel free to also check out my Kyoto travel stories:

• 15 Things To Do and Eat for 3 Days in Kyoto
• Ride On Arashiyama Sagano Scenic Railway
• Half Day Trip To Arashiyama
• Kiyomizudera Itinerary with Walking Guide
• Fushimi Inari Shrine: A Complete Travel Guide
• Nishiki Market Travel Guide: What To Eat and Buy

Last updated on September 14th, 2024

Planning your Kyoto Kiyomizudera itinerary by walking including to the Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka in Higashiyama district.

Kyoto has many top attractions and very ideal to plan for at least one day or two days itinerary in Kyoto. Among all the attractions, Kiyomizudera (清水寺) no doubt is one of the must-visit sight in Kyoto. It is world-famous for its spectacular historical building and added into UNESCO world heritage sites in 1994. Together with the various historical building in Higashiyama district, it is a pleasant walk through the ground area to the Kiyomizudera temple.

The best time to visit Kiyomizudera is during the sakura season in April and fall autumn in November when maple turns red. We were so lucky and visited Kiyomizudera in Spring during the cherry blossom in bloom. The view was so amazing with stunning buildings and beautiful sakura in bloom.

How To Get To Kiyomizudera

First of all, Kiyomizudera is accessible by public transport from various side of Kyoto. It can be reached by bus or railway to the temple. However, take note that all the transportation required at least 10-20 minutes uphill walk to the temple.

From JR Kyoto Station to Kiyomizudera by bus: Take the Kyoto bus (#206) or (#100) and get off at Gojozaka stop. Next, another 10 minutes walk will get you to Kiyomizudera entrance. Alternatively, Kiyomizudera can be reach from Kiyomizu-Gojo Station along the Keihan Railway Line with 20 minutes walk.

We recommended taking the Kyoto city bus to Kiyomizudera which cost about ¥230 for one way.

Kiyomizudera Walking Route Itinerary

Kiyomizudera is one of the must-visit attractions when getting to Kyoto. The best time to visit Kiyomizudera is morning before the crowd or late evening when everyone left. It can be very crowded as this is the top sightseeing in Kyoto. So, we decided to visit Kiyomizudera as the first stop during our second day in Kyoto itinerary.

Here is the Kiyomizudera Walking Route Itinerary:

• Take the Kyoto Bus (#100) from Kyoto Station to Gojozaka Stop
• Walk To the Kiyomizu-dera Temple entrance
• Visit Kiyomizudera Temple
• The wooden structure of Kiyomizudera Main Hall
• Enjoy the best Kiyomizudera View From Okunoin Hall
• Pray at Jishu Shrine
• Take a sip of water from Otawa no taki
• Stroll Around Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka Slope

From Kyoto Station To Gojozaka Stop

From Kyoto station, we took the Kyoto bus (#100) and got off at Gojozaka stop. There is no direct access to Kiyomizudera. You need to climb up picturesque shopping streets that line along the way up. Anyway, this is the only way to get to Kiyomizudera.

We arrived before 8:00 am and glad that we made the right decision. The surrounding streets are beautiful despite being overrun with tourists. It’s the best time to enjoy the view around the shrine with an old Japan street view.

It was a very serene and pleasant 10 minutes walk along the street in the early morning. Get some nice photoshoot before the crowd booming in. There are few visitors dressed up in Japanese traditional kimono along the street. If you are interested, you can rent the kimono at some shops and walk around the area.

We straight went up to visit the temple as the first stop in the Kiyomizudera itinerary. No worry as we will come back exploring Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka later.

Kinomizudera Entrance

Kiyomizudera becomes visible as you ascend the narrow street. We paid our entrance fee and walked among the historical buildings. There are various temple buildings such as Nio-mon and Sai-mon in the area.

• Opening Hours: 6:00 to 18:00 (until 18:30 on weekends)
• Entrance Fee: ¥500

Kinomizudera Main Hall

We were impressed by the wooden structures when we walked into the main hall area. Kiyomizudera is renowned for its impressive wooden temple which standing on the cliff of the mountain. The Main Hall of Kiyomizudera is supported by 139 pillars but constructed without the use of a single nail. However, it was built solidly enough to support the stage.

We spent some time in the Main Hall, experiencing its serenity and taking part in some prayer rites. Enjoy the beautiful panorama view of Kyoto city from the stage.

The view on wooden structures of Kiyomizudera when we follow the trail down from the main hall area.

Best Kiyomizudera View From Okunoin Hall

However, the best view of Kiyomizudera is from the viewing platform at Okunoin hall which diagonally opposite of the main temple. Follow the path will lead you to the Okunoin hall. This is where you could see the whole stunning wooden structures of Kiyomizudera from distance.

Jishu Shrine

Enjoy your stroll at the Kiyomizudera temple area. There are some other attractions that worth spending some time.

Next, behind Kiyomizudera’s main hall stands the Jishu Shrine (地主神社). It is a small shrine dedicated to love and matchmaking. Many people come here to wish for love life.

Added, there is a legendary stone known as “love stones” where you can find your loved one soon. Just close your eyes and walk straight to another stone located at the opposite.

Otowa no taki (Otowa Waterfall)

Added, you noticed there is a small waterfall at the base of Kiyomizudera’s main hall. The Otowa Waterfall is where you can wish for your longevity, love, and wisdom. Take a sip from one of them by using the long poles cups attached.

Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka Slope

There are many wonderful things to do in Kiyomizudera. Lastly, we spend our time strolling around at the iconic street in Higashiyama district, Kyoto.

The Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka Slope is best known for its scenic street view. Take some time wandering around the street as it is worth it. You can find various types of souvenir shops, desserts, cafes, and restaurants around the busy street here.

On our leisurely downhill walk, we ended up stopping at multiple stops to enjoy some local Japanese sweets and sake. However, many visitors started booming the busy lane in the late morning. So take your time to explore around and take some refreshment when you are tired. Most importantly, there are also some hidden photo spots where you can take a nice photo with beautiful scenery.

All in all, Kiyomizudera is a must-visit place especially for the first timer in Kyoto. We spend about 3 to 4 hours exploring around. Do come earlier in the morning to avoid the crowd.

Happy travel to Kiyomizudera!

Where To Stay

Looking for where to stay in Kyoto? We listed out some of the best hotels in Kyoto for your selection.

Pieces Hostel Kyoto is the best budget hotel in Kyoto and awarded with the best designer hostel. It strategic located less than 5 minutes from Kyoto station. Reasonable spacious room and clean bed at this price range. Added, free breakfast with a variety of choices including Japanese and western selection. Very popular accommodation for budget travelers. Meanwhile, there even have their second branch Pieces Hostel Sanjo if you prefer to stay in the downtown area.

Alternatively, consider Daiwa Royal Hotel Grande Kyoto which located a 5-minute walk from JR Kyoto Station. Great sized room, comfortable bed, and professional staff. Everything is perfect for this hotel.

Moreover, if you prefer for best Ryokan stay in Kyoto, Kyoto Granbell Hotel is your best accommodation in Kyoto. It features modern architecture yet with traditional Japanese design. Located in a great location among all the attractions in Gion and close to the Gion-Shijo Subway Station with 3 minutes walk. Added, a public bath is available for hotel guests.

Read More

Lastly, if you’re heading to Kyoto, feel free to also check out my Kyoto travel stories:

• 15 Things To Do and Eat for 3 Days in Kyoto
• Ride On Arashiyama Sagano Scenic Railway
• Half Day Trip To Arashiyama
• Trip To Kinkakuji, Golden Pavilion
• Kiyomizudera Itinerary with Walking Guide
• Fushimi Inari Shrine: A Complete Travel Guide
• Nishiki Market Travel Guide: What To Eat and Buy
• [Cherry Blossom in Kyoto] Philosopher’s Walk