History
Kinkakuji Temple History
Kinkakuji Temple or the Golden Pavilion, one of the most visited landmarks in all of Japan, has a rich history befitting a structure that has withstood centuries of transformation, war and rebirth.
Originally built in 1397 as a luxurious retirement villa for Ashikaga Yoshimitsu, the third shogun of the Ashikaga shogunate, Kinkakuji Temple was then formally known as Rokuon-ji (Deer Garden Temple).
As willed by Yoshimitsu, the villa was converted into a Zen temple, and the shimmering gold leaf exterior and tranquil garden settings reflected his vision of opulence blended with spirituality.
Each of the three stories tells of a different historical influence:
- First floor: Shinden-zukuri or imperial aristocratic style
- Second floor: Buke-zukuri or samurai style
- Third floor: Chinese Zen temple style
Like the surrounding Kyoto city, Kinkaku-ji Temple’s journey has been fraught with challenges, repeatedly damaged by fire during the Onin War (1467-1477) and burned to the ground by an infamous act of arson as recently as 1950.
Painstakingly restored to its original glory, the Golden Pavilion incorporated modern fireproofing measures, hopefully ensuring its longevity.
The iconic gold leaf exterior was fully restored in 1987, and Kinkakuji Temple was recognized as a UNESCO world heritage site as part of the historic monuments of ancient Kyoto.
Planning a trip to Kinkaku-ji Temple and the Golden Pavilion? Visit our Kinkaku-ji Temple home page for the complete rundown on every single detail!
And if you’re just starting to plan your visit to Japan, check out some of the top things to do in Japan, many of which you absolutely don’t want to miss!
