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Kinkaku-ji

Kinkaku-ji 1
Travel Info
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Travel Info

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Kinkaku-ji Weather, Climate and Best Time to Visit

Data source：Meteostat
Update date：2025-09

Kinkaku-ji year round climate

  • Spring (March–May): Average 10.5–19.3°C, mild climate, but relatively high rainfall, especially in April. Common activities: Cherry blossom viewing (if it's a warm winter, cherry blossoms may be seen in late March and early April), visiting Kinkaku-ji Temple, strolling around Arashiyama. Recommended clothing: Light jacket, comfortable long pants or skirt, rain gear.
  • Summer (June–August): Average 23.7–29.5°C, hot and humid, with relatively high rainfall. Common activities: Visiting Kinkaku-ji Temple, experiencing Kyoto's summer atmosphere, enjoying the scenery of the Kamogawa River in the evening. Recommended clothing: Light and breathable clothing, sun hat, sunscreen.
  • Autumn (September–November): Average 13.9–27.1°C, pleasant and comfortable climate, with gradually decreasing rainfall. Common activities: Maple leaf viewing (November is the best time for maple leaf viewing), visiting Kinkaku-ji Temple, experiencing the beauty of Kyoto in autumn. Recommended clothing: Light jacket or cardigan, comfortable long pants or skirt.
  • Winter (December–February): Average 5.1–7.2°C, cold and dry, with the least rainfall. Common activities: Visiting Kinkaku-ji Temple, appreciating the winter garden scenery, tasting Kyoto's winter delicacies. Recommended clothing: Warm coat, scarf, gloves, hat.

Kinkaku-ji climatological average

Annual average temperature: approx. 17°C / Annual rainfall: approx. 1656 mm / Summer humidity: 70%–80% / Rainiest month: August

Kinkaku-ji monthly average temperature and precipitation

Month
Air temperature (°C)
Precipitation (mm)
January
5.1°C
47.4
February
6.1°C
72.5
March
10.5°C
131.3
April
16.4°C
182.2
May
19.3°C
199.8
June
23.7°C
248.8
July
28.9°C
176
August
29.5°C
254.7
September
27.1°C
127.3
October
19.1°C
105.2
November
13.9°C
91.9
December
7.2°C
19.2

Kinkaku-ji weather for the next seven days

12/18
Thursday
Patchy rain nearby
10.1°C/4.8°C
12/19
Friday
Sunny
13.2°C/3°C
12/20
Saturday
Partly Cloudy
15.7°C/8.7°C
12/21
Sunday
Patchy rain nearby
14.7°C/8.9°C
12/22
Monday
Moderate rain
9.4°C/6.3°C
12/23
Tuesday
Sunny
11.9°C/6.6°C
12/24
Wednesday
Moderate rain
12.1°C/6.8°C

Kinkaku-ji Frequently Asked Questions and Useful Information for Travel

What is Kinkaku-ji famous for?

Kinkaku-ji is renowned for its stunning golden pavilion, with its top two floors completely covered in gold leaf, creating a breathtaking reflection in the surrounding pond. It is also celebrated for its historical significance as a Zen Buddhist temple, its beautifully designed gardens, and its UNESCO World Heritage status, offering a unique aesthetic that captivates visitors in every season.

Is it worth visiting Kinkakuji Temple?

Yes, Kinkaku-ji is absolutely worth visiting. Its iconic golden pavilion, shimmering reflection in the pond, and the serene surrounding gardens make it a must-see. While it can be crowded, its unparalleled beauty and cultural importance as a UNESCO World Heritage site offer a truly memorable experience for any traveler to Japan.

Who burned down Kinkaku-ji?

Kinkaku-ji was tragically burned down on July 2, 1950, by a novice monk named Hayashi Yoken.

Do you need tickets for Kinkaku-ji?

You do not need to reserve tickets for Kinkaku-ji in advance. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance on a first-come, first-served basis. Please note that admission is typically paid in cash at the ticket counters.

What is the best time to visit Kinkaku-ji?

To avoid the largest crowds and fully appreciate the Golden Pavilion's beauty, it's recommended to visit Kinkaku-ji early in the morning shortly after it opens. This allows for a more peaceful experience and better photo opportunities.