Kinkakuji

It's a temple...Made of gold... Do I really need to say more? Well yes, it's actually gold leaf I believe, or something along those lines. Anyway, this temple is what's on the majority of postcards in Kyoto and one of the main sights you may associate Japan with. And in my experience, its pretty darn cool. This temple gets crazy busy, prepare for cameras everywhere. Prepare to walk through everyone's photos. They will not move for you, show them who's boss! There are a few more sights within the temple complex, though they are all kind of "eh" compared to, ya'know, "The Golden Temple". Everyone goes here. EVERYONE. But! There is a reason why. It's super cool and super beautiful!

The Temple of the Golden Pavilion is probably the most famous temple in Kyoto, and one of the most popular buildings in Japan. A spectacular building and World Heritage site. Breathtaking. Bright gold, it sits idly on an island in the middle of a lake, surrounded by beautiful Zen gardens. Even the vending machines here sell disposable cameras; the Golden Pavilion crying out to be photographed. The entry fee is just ¥400; the ticket is made from beautiful paper, and written with expert calligraphy. The path snakes its way through the belfry, passes the abbot’s chamber, the pond, the Golden Pavilion, Galaxy Spring, the Sekka-tei Tea House; all the while, shrouded by the mysterious mountains that make up the backdrop. It is a wonderful route and takes me about twenty minutes at an unhurried pace. Along the way, little wooden shacks selling souvenirs lure in tourists. A great temple, and a reason alone to take the trip to Kyoto.