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| Kinkakuji Zen Temple |
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| Coin Tossing |
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| Ice Cream Vending Machine near the exit |
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| Panoramic view of Kinkakuji Temple |
Kinkakuji (Golden Pavilion) is a zen temple in northern Kyoto whose top two storeys are completely laminated in gold leaf. Formally known as Rokuonji, the temple was the retirement villa of the shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu, and according to his will it became a Zen temple of the Rinzai sect after his death in 1408. Kinkakuji was the inspiration for the similarly named Ginkakuji (Silver Pavilion), built by Yoshimitsu's grandson, Ashikaga Yoshimasa, on the other side of the city a few decades later.
Kinkakuji is an impressive structure built overlooking a large pond, and is the only building left of Yoshimitsu's former retirement complex. It has burned down numerous times throughout its history including twice during the Onin War, a civil war that destroyed much of Kyoto; and once again more recently in 1950 when it was set on fire by a fanatic monk. The present structure was rebuilt in 1955. story from Japan-Guide.com
I enjoy strolling through the compound, love the gold temple reflecting on the pond. Koi fishes spotted in the pond. No Drone and No Selfie Sticks on the premises.
Pictures by MSW
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