Kyoto's Stunning Landmark! A Day Trip from Osaka to Kinkaku-ji

This time, we departed from Osaka and took the JR train for about 40 minutes to reach Kyoto's Kinkaku-ji. The entire journey was full of surprises! Kinkaku-ji, officially known as 'Rokuon-ji,' is renowned for its main building, the 'Shariden,' whose exterior walls are covered in gold leaf. Under the sunlight, it gleams magnificantly, making it one of Kyoto's most iconic attractions. As you step into the temple grounds, you'll find meticulously designed gardens. The Mirror Pond reflects the image of Kinkaku-ji, resembling a classical ink painting. Visiting during early morning or late afternoon is highly recommended, as there are fewer crowds and the lighting effects are even more enchanting. You can stroll around the pond, admire the scenery from different angles, and even feed the koi fish swimming leisurely in the pond, adding an interactive touch to your visit. Although the interior of Kinkaku-ji is not open to the public, its exterior alone is breathtaking. Nearby, you'll find the 'Kinkaku-ji Treasure Museum,' which showcases historical artifacts related to the temple and is worth exploring. Before leaving, don't forget to try the matcha desserts from the traditional sweet shop 'Mangetsu' nearby—it's the perfect way to conclude this cultural journey! If you want to experience the traditional beauty of Kyoto, Kinkaku-ji is a must-visit destination. It's recommended to allocate half a day to a full day for your visit, and you can pair it with trips to Arashiyama or Kiyomizu-dera for an even richer experience!