KYOTO: All About The Temples

Kyoto – 2nd Day in Japan

On my second day of my Japan adventure, I am so lucky to check out the cultural capital of Japn – Kyoto.

Kyoto is famed for its historical beauty since it’s the former capital city of Japan. I’ve had a morning and an afternoon here before going away. It was short, and I didn’t think I had much time there.

What I experience in Kyoto is brief to tell you a whole picture of the city. So this week article is just a glimpse on Kyoto best known temples that you should pay a visit once you’re here.

Note: visitors are not allowed to take food into the area even when it’s outdoor area.

Kiyomizu-dera

The wooden architecture surrounded by autumn foliage.

The beautiful wooden architecture, since 780, has survived through time, proving the magical touch of Japanese finest architectural design. This area is worth a visit thanks to a massive number of temples in a single area. Visitors are able to discover different shrines and the main tower. Parts of the area is under renovation step by step through out the upcoming years, so you might miss some structure. But I try to enjoy the best of the place.

Kiyomizudera Temple
Opening hours: 6:00 – 18:00
Fees: 300 yen
Spring and Fall Illumination
Opening hours: 18:30 to 21:30 (mid March to mid April and mid November to early December)
Fees: 400 yen

Looking at the "Pure Water Temple" from afar — Looking at the “Pure Water Temple” from afar

Ginkaku-ji

The Ginkaku-ji (Silver Pavillon) is not covered in silver like its alternative version Kinkaku-ji. But thanks to the white shades of the building and other structure in the area, it is a huge contrast to Kinkaku-ji. This area consists of the Silver Pavillon itself and a moss garden, and 6 more temples. Ginkaku-ji is constructed next to a pond which helps elevates the beauty through its own reflection.

I have not been here but Venturology’s contributor – Jim – manages to send me the photos when he visited the temple last 2 weeks.

Opening hours: 8:30 to 17:00 (9:00 to 16:30 from December to February)
Fees: 500 yen

Today, Ginkakuji consists of the Silver Pavilion, half a dozen other temple buildings, a beautiful moss garden and a unique dry sand garden.

Kinkaku-ji

In contrast of the Silver Pavillon, Kinkaku-ji (Gold Pavillon) is covered in gold leaves which is an undeniable beacon among the temples of Kyoto. It is situated next to an aquatic area but bigger than Ginakuku-ji’s, making its reflection clearer and more beautiful. All those jam packed visitors line including me try to capture its beauty from the other side of the lake. The walking line is brilliant which allows you to walk around the area and capture the best frame of temple: from lake view, to mountain view, to foliage view.