The Golden Pavilion
We got to go to Kinkakuji today. Also called the Golden Pavilion, Kinkakuji is a Buddhist hall on the north side of Kyoto containing relics of Buddha. Formerly a retirement villa for Shogun Askikaga Yoshimitsu, the top two levels of Kinkakuji are completely covered in gold leaf.
The top two layers are covered in gold leaf.
During his era, the temple regularly welcomed emperors and other royalty. After he died in 1408, the villa was converted into a temple as per Yoshimitsu’s request.
The Pavilion itself sits in the middle of a small lake, and the reflections of the gold shimmering in the water are gorgeous. We went late in the day, but still the views were fantastic and the atmosphere stunning.
Reflections
The gardens around the Golden Temple are obviously well tended. We continued to enjoy our visit well after Kinkakuji faded from view.
Absolutely stunning. Waaaay better than I remember it.
I hope you let me paint these reflections!
It was all so picturesque! Paint away!
it looks so peaceful and beautiful