How long does it take to walk from Ryōan-ji to Kinkaku-ji?

The walk between Ryōan-ji and Kinkaku-ji takes approximately 20 minutes on foot. The distance is about 1.5 kilometers (0.9 miles) along the scenic Kinake no Michi road.

Is Kinkaku-ji worth visiting despite the crowds?

Yes, Kinkaku-ji is widely considered a must-see due to its unique gold-leaf exterior and historical significance. To enjoy it with fewer crowds, arrive exactly when it opens at 9:00 AM.

Can I see the Ryōan-ji rock garden without a guide?

Absolutely. Ryōan-ji is designed for silent contemplation, making it perfect for a self-guided visit. Information boards are available in English to explain the Zen philosophy behind the stones.

What is the closest train station to Myōshin-ji?

The closest station is JR Hanazono Station on the Sagano Line, which is about a 10-minute walk from the temple's south gate. Alternatively, the Keifuku Kitano Line's Myōshin-ji Station is very close to the north gate.

Are there hills on the walk between Ninna-ji and Kinkaku-ji?

The route is mostly flat or has very gentle inclines. The terrain is manageable for most walkers, though the temple grounds themselves contain gravel and some stairs.

Where can I find public toilets near the Golden Pavilion?

There are large public restrooms located right at the entrance of the Kinkaku-ji complex near the bus stop, as well as inside the temple grounds near the exit.

Is the Myōshin-ji complex free to enter?

The general grounds of the Myōshin-ji complex are free to walk through. however, individual sub-temples like Taizō-in and the main Hatto hall (to see the dragon painting) require separate entrance fees.

What is the best time of day to photograph the Golden Pavilion?

The best light for photography is usually in the late afternoon when the sun hits the gold leaf directly, but early morning is better for avoiding crowds in your shots.

Zigway - The Guide Follows You

About This Tour

Northern Kyoto serves as a living museum of Zen philosophy and aristocratic elegance. This self-guided walk takes you through a landscape where silence is sculpted into rock gardens and opulence is reflected in golden ponds. The route begins in the sprawling complex of Myōshin-ji, often described as a 'city of temples,' before winding through the tranquil sub-temples that reveal the intimate side of Japanese spirituality. You will encounter the world-famous rock garden of Ryōan-ji, a masterpiece of minimalism that has puzzled and inspired visitors for centuries. The journey continues to Ninna-ji, a site with deep imperial connections, and culminates at the iconic Kinkaku-ji, the Golden Pavilion. This neighborhood stroll offers a profound look at how different eras of Japanese history—from the power of the Ashikaga Shogunate to the quiet devotion of Zen monks—have shaped the physical environment. Along the way, you'll traverse the 'Kinake no Michi' or the Road of Silk and Tapestry, a path that connects these UNESCO World Heritage sites. This walking route Kyoto provides is more than just a sightseeing path; it is an invitation to slow down and observe the subtle details of garden design, from the raked gravel of dry landscapes to the seasonal shifts of moss and maple. Whether you are a first-time visitor or a repeat traveler, exploring these grounds independently allows you to absorb the meditative atmosphere at your own pace. This walking tour Kyoto provides a balance between the hidden gems of Taizō-in and the world-renowned shimmer of the Golden Pavilion, ensuring a comprehensive experience of the city's northern heritage.

Highlights

The 'Dragon in the Clouds' ceiling at Myōshin-ji

The enigmatic 15-stone rock garden at Ryōan-ji

The shimmering gold leaf reflection of Kinkaku-ji

Imperial architecture and the five-story pagoda at Ninna-ji

The rare 'Catfish and Gourd' ink painting at Taizō-in

Strolling the historic Kinake no Michi road

Tour Stops (6)

Myōshin-ji Temple

Welcome to Myōshin-ji, the head temple of the largest branch of Rinzai Zen Buddhism. Founded in 1337 on the site of a former imperial villa, this isn't just one temple but a massive complex of nearly 50 sub-temples. As you walk through the main gates, notice the 'shichido garan' or the seven-building layout, which is a classic feature of Zen architecture. One of the most famous features here is the 'Dragon in the Clouds' painted on the ceiling of the Hatto hall. It took the artist Kano Tanyu eight years to complete. Interestingly, the dragon appears to gaze directly at you no matter where you stand in the hall, a technique designed to remind monks that the Buddha's eyes are always upon them.

Taizō-in Temple

A short walk within the Myōshin-ji complex brings you to Taizō-in, one of the most significant sub-temples. It is home to the famous ink painting 'Catching a Catfish with a Gourd,' a Zen koan or riddle visualised by the priest-painter Josetsu. The temple's garden, the Yoko-en, is a 20th-century masterpiece that incorporates both a dry landscape and a pond garden. Notice the dualism here: the 'motonobu-no-niwa' garden uses evergreens to represent eternal life, while the seasonal flowers in other sections represent the fleeting nature of existence. It is a perfect spot to observe the Zen principle of finding beauty in simplicity.

Tōji-in Temple

Tōji-in is a hidden gem often overlooked by the crowds. It was established in 1341 by Ashikaga Takauji, the first shogun of the Ashikaga Shogunate. This temple serves as the mortuary temple for the Ashikaga family, and you can see statues of the various shoguns in the Reigendo hall. The garden here is split into two sections around a central pond shaped like the Chinese character for 'heart' or 'spirit.' This design was created by the legendary monk Muso Soseki. As you walk the perimeter, the changing perspectives of the pond and the tea house represent the fluid nature of the human soul in Zen thought.

Ryōan-ji

Now you reach Ryōan-ji, home to arguably the most famous rock garden in the world. This UNESCO World Heritage site features 15 stones arranged in a bed of white raked gravel. The mystery lies in its composition: from any vantage point on the temple veranda, at least one stone is always hidden from view. It is said that only through achieving enlightenment can one see all 15 at once. The garden's origins and the identity of its designer remain a mystery, adding to its allure. Beyond the stones, take a moment to walk around the Kyoyochi Pond, which was once the highlight of the estate before the rock garden gained global fame.

Ninna-ji Temple

Ninna-ji is unique among Kyoto's temples because of its deep ties to the Imperial family. Traditionally, a member of the Imperial family would serve as the head priest here. This royal influence is visible in the 'Goten' palace area, which features elegant sliding doors and corridors that mimic the style of an Imperial residence. The temple is also famous for its Omuro cherry trees, which bloom later than other varieties and are shorter in stature. Don't miss the five-story pagoda, which stands as a rare example of Edo-period architecture that survived the fires that claimed much of the rest of the city.

Kinkaku-ji

The route concludes at the spectacular Kinkaku-ji, or the Golden Pavilion. Originally built as a retirement villa for Shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu, it was converted into a Zen temple after his death. The top two floors are completely covered in pure gold leaf, reflecting brilliantly in the 'Mirror Pond' below. Each floor represents a different architectural style: the ground floor is Shinden-zukuri (palace style), the second is Bukke-zukuri (samurai style), and the top is Zen style. Though the current structure dates to 1955 after a tragic arson attack in 1950, it remains the definitive symbol of Kyoto’s historical wealth and aesthetic refinement.

Frequently Asked Questions

The most iconic route in Northern Kyoto is the path between Myōshin-ji and Kinkaku-ji. This self-guided walk covers the 'Big Three' Zen sites: Ryōan-ji, Ninna-ji, and the Golden Pavilion, offering a mix of rock gardens and imperial history.