Kinkakuji (Golden Pavilion) is a Zen temple in northern Kyoto. It is one of the most visited attractions in Japan.
The building was originally the retirement villa of the shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu. It became a Zen temple after his death in 1408. It has burned down numerous times throughout its history. The present structure was rebuilt in 1955. The building is famous, as the top two floors of the Kinkakuji are completely covered in gold leaf.
Kinkakuji is an impressive structure built overlooking a large pond, and is the only building left of Yoshimitsu's former retirement complex. Kinkakuji was built to echo the extravagant Kitayama culture that developed in the wealthy aristocratic circles of Kyoto during Yoshimitsu's times. Each floor represents a different style of architecture.
