I live in Tainan, Taiwan, and am 72 years old. My wife and I, an elderly couple, were traveling independently. We are farmers and booked this tour online on a whim. We visited Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) and Arashiyama, places I had visited 30 years ago. 1. Differences: This trip was crowded, lacking the quality of a relaxing vacation. 2. Advantages: We saw people from different countries and experienced different cultures. It was a group tour, and although the members came from different countries (Taiwanese people only made up 10%), everyone was punctual for the agreed pick-up and drop-off times, which was reassuring. 3. Uploaded videos of the autumn foliage.
My first trip to Kyoto was amazing! The tour guide was very attentive, explaining the various historical events and stories. The scenery was also beautiful and fantastic.
Before arriving at each location, Tina would explain the local history and culture in detail. Although Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) is not large, it's beautiful everywhere during this season. Uji is a small town, nestled against the mountains and by the water, just like Arashiyama. The autumn leaves are vibrant red, and the atmosphere is relaxed and not crowded, making it an unforgettable stop on my trip. Kiyomizu-dera Temple and its surrounding attractions are full of ancient capital and religious elements, making visitors linger. When some members of the group were late for the return trip, Tina patiently waited and checked on their location to see if they needed any help. Overall, I felt the itinerary arrangement, the guide's professionalism, and the time management were all excellent, making it a great travel experience.
Anonymous User
Family
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 50–66°F, 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 74–85°F, 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 57–80°F, 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 41–44°F, 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. 62.6°F / Annual rainfall: approx. 1656 mm / Summer humidity: 70%–80% / Rainiest month: August
Kinkaku-ji monthly average temperature and precipitation
Month
Air temperature (°F)
Precipitation (mm)
January
41.2°F
47.4
February
43°F
72.5
March
50.9°F
131.3
April
61.5°F
182.2
May
66.7°F
199.8
June
74.7°F
248.8
July
84°F
176
August
85.1°F
254.7
September
80.8°F
127.3
October
66.4°F
105.2
November
57°F
91.9
December
45°F
19.2
Kinkaku-ji weather for the next seven days
12/21
Sunday
Moderate rain
56.5°F/49.5°F
12/22
Monday
Sunny
47.1°F/39.3°F
12/23
Tuesday
Patchy rain nearby
53.5°F/37.3°F
12/24
Wednesday
Heavy rain
56.5°F/50.1°F
12/25
Thursday
Partly Cloudy
47.5°F/41.5°F
12/26
Friday
Partly Cloudy
49.4°F/36.7°F
12/27
Saturday
Moderate rain
49.7°F/45°F
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