Personalized Kinkaku-ji, Kyoto Postkarte

Kinkaku-ji, or the Golden Pavilion, is one of Kyoto’s most iconic and photographed temples. Built in the late 14th century as shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu’s retirement villa, it later became a Zen temple after his death. The structure is famous for its top two floors, which are covered entirely in shimmering gold leaf that glows brilliantly in the sunlight. Set beside Mirror Pond, the pavilion reflects beautifully on the water, creating an image that feels almost dreamlike. Its design blends aristocratic elegance with Zen simplicity, while the surrounding garden enhances the peaceful, timeless atmosphere that draws millions of visitors each year.