Sitting in northern Kyoto, Kinkaku-ji is a Zen temple with its top two floors covered in shimmering gold leaf. It reflects beautifully in a pond, surrounded by gardens that feel like a slice of paradise.

The temple, built in 1397 as a shogun's villa, became a temple in 1408. Its golden glow against pine trees and water makes it a must-see, especially when the light hits just right.

You wander through the grounds, passing stone lanterns and a small tea garden. The path feels calm, guiding you past spots where you can pause and take it all in.

Get there when it opens to dodge the tour groups that roll in later. Mid-morning light makes the gold pop, so aim for that if you can.

Allow about an hour to explore the grounds at a leisurely pace. The path is one-way, so you won’t miss anything, but it’s not huge.

Wear comfy shoes, as the gravel paths can be uneven. Photography’s fine, but tripods aren’t allowed, so keep it simple.

Pair your visit with nearby Ryoan-ji for a Zen double-header. Weekdays are your best bet for a quieter visit, especially in spring or autumn.

Kinkaku-ji is open daily from 9 AM to 5 PM. Entry fee is about 500 yen, cash-only at the gate.