golden palace tours kochi

Kerala Tourism

• EXPERIENCE KERALA
• WHERE TO GO
• WHERE TO STAY
• THINGS TO DO
• PLAN YOUR TRIP
• TRAVEL CARE
• E BROCHURES
• E NEWSLETTER
• MICRO SITES

• E Brochures Download Mobile App Subscribe YouTube Channel Kalaripayattu
• Yathri Nivas Booking
• Popular Destinations
• Kerala Videos
• Kerala Photos

Golden Palace Travels & Tours Pvt Ltd

Kerala Tourism has developed this platform, ‘Where to Stay’, with the intention of helping travellers as well as tourism service providers. The tourism service providers can publish the details of their accommodation units here. The information available here are compiled and published entirely by the respective property owners.

Golden Palace Travels & Tours Pvt Ltd 17/1586 b3(41/340) Mass Tower, Ground Floor, Ram Mohan Road, Kozhikode Kozhikode, Kozhikode Pin: 673004

9447393735, 7592010030, 7592010020, 7592010040, +91 0495 2726868, 4043388 [email protected], [email protected] www.goldenpalacetours.com Nil

Golden Palace offers you the perfect and thrilling experience of your memorable days to enjoy the beautiful nature we are offering variety of your packages, Monsoon Packages, Adventure Tours, Student Tour, Holiday Packages and Health Tour Packages to different destination across INDIA with all travel related service. Our aim is tosatisfy every single tourist by providing world class service to make their tours memorable and enjoyable...

Property Images

Write a Review and Rate this Service Provider

Already a User

Do you wish to add content or help us find mistakes in this web page?  Yes No

NB: You should not submit anything else other than addition / correction of page content.

For travel related requirements like accommodation, tour packages, transportation etc please click here .

• Classification Schemes
• Governmental Affairs
• Tourism Events
• Kerala at a Glance
• Travel Care
• Where to Stay
• Travel Tips

Specialities

• Kerala Food

Videos/Photos

• 360° Videos
• Royalty Free Photos

Subscribe Our Newsletter Get notified to Kerala Tourism events and activities

For business/trade/classifications and tenders please visit www.keralatourism.gov.in.

• Tours & Experiences
• Tailor-made Trips
• Bahasa Indonesia

We are happy to see you again!

Continue with

Or use email.

No Account? Create one

Create account

Already have an account? Sign in

Quickly Sign up with

I agree to Japan Travel's Terms of Service and Privacy Policy . Terms of--> and acknowledge that Japan Travel's Privacy--> applies to me.-->

Email reset password link

Please check your inbox and click the link we will send to you.

Kochi Castle Tour and History

While its size might not be as impressive as the better known castles of Japan, Kochi Castle is one of the 12 castles that escaped World War II without having to be re-built. In fact, it's the only castle in Japan where you can still see an original palace, keep, and honmaru , or inner citadel.

Being situated 44.4 meters on top of Otakasa Hill in downtown Kochi, the 18.5 m tower of Kochi Castle commands an impressive panoramic view of the city. In my opinion, this view alone is well worth the visit. There's a guard rail, but no pesky net to get in the way of taking great pictures.

That said, the castle is not easily accessible for those who may have difficulty walking. The old rocky stairs to the top are proportioned in an awkward way, so the path to the right may be a better option for some. Either way, probably a good idea to borrow one of the walking sticks they have available by the stairs if your legs are tired.

Once at the top, you can pay the JPY400 fee, take off your shoes and enter the palace. To help preserve the original state of the eight traditional tatami rooms from all the foot traffic, they are only made visible from a walkway along the perimeter. Because of this, it probably won't take you very long to see all of the rooms.

In addition, there are also several Japanese only exhibits with models depicting past life in Kochi, castle history, and artifacts. Even if you don't understand Japanese, the exhibits are visually stimulating enough to be quite enjoyable.

One word of advice. When you do go up to the tower, take your time going up and down the stairs as they're incredibly steep with low wooden support beams perfect for bumping your head. Also, because you're probably in your socks or slippers provided by the castle, be careful not to slip on the wooden floors.

For those who may be interested in a short castle history, here it goes.

Kochi Castle was constructed by Yamanouchi Kazutoyo who took control of the then known province of Tosa after the Battle of Sekigahara in 1600. Construction began in 1601 and was completed in 1611.

Although the previous center of Kochi, or Tosa, was in the coastal area Urado, the construction of Kochi Castle marked the first successful move to the more defensible position on Otakasa Hill, in current downtown Kochi. With Kagami River to the south, and Enokuchi River to the north, developing the swampy area of Otakasa as the new center of defense was a feat that two previous rulers had failed to complete.

The castle suffered a fire in 1727, and reconstruction was completed in 1753, restoring the castle to its original state.

When you're finished seeing the castle, there's a large grassy area great for picnics and springtime cherry blossom viewing just outside the honmaru.

The grounds of Kochi Castle make up a public park that's also a popular location for holding local music events and festivals. The Museum of Japanese Literature and a chashitsu , or tea ceremony house, are also in the park, east of the castle.

Here's a tip for making the most out of your visit to Kochi Castle. The street that ends in front of the castle's main gate is also home to Kochi's famous Sunday Market. Plan to go downtown early on Sunday, walk down this incredible market full of various kinds of rare local produce, get some souvenir shopping done, and then head up to the castle with bento (a boxed lunch) in hand for a picnic and sightseeing. It's a perfect Sunday morning in Kochi City.

Find out more about Kochi Castle .

• Things to Do in Kochi
• Japan's Top Castles
• Share on Facebook
• Share on Twitter
• Copy link to share

By Nate Hill

Community writer

Information

Kochi Castle

1 Chome-2-1 Marunouchi, Kochi, 780-0850 ( Directions )

kochipark.jp

Book your trip

Find a nearby hotel, explore nearby.

Kochi's Half-Price Travel Coupons

By Edward Yagisawa

So You Want to Move to Rural Japan

By Chiara Terzuolo

Hirome Ichiba, Much More than Just a Market

Kochi's Historic Sunday Market

Top articles.

• Recommended

Valley of Witches: a New Ghibli Park Attraction

Tokyo One of the World's Most Walkable Cities

Kurobe Unazuki Canyon Route to Link with Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route

Haneda Airport Ranked World's Cleanest

Mount Omuro

Tokyo Takes 2nd Place on Top Coffee Cities List

2024 Grand Sumo Tournaments

Guide to Golden Week

Sapporo Beer Opens New Brewery in Tokyo’s Ebisu

Guide to Bringing Medicines Into Japan

Your Name: Real-Life Locations in Tokyo

Hachiko Statue in Shibuya

Iwatayama Monkey Park

Shibuya Crossing

Daikoku Car Meet

Guide to Suica Cards

Kanamara Penis Festival

Japanese Urban Legends

More from this category.

By Ignatius Koh

5 Spirited Away Locations You..

By Serena Kim

Kiyomizu Temple and Otowa Waterfall..

By Stefanus Husin

Hachiko Statue University of Tokyo..

By Jessica A Paje

Leave a comment

Let us know how we can help.

Help us improve JapanTravel.com

We welcome any suggestions regarding this content. Your feedback is confidential and will be used to help improve this page.

Suggest an edit

https://en.japantravel.com/kochi/kochi-castle/231

Thank you for your support!

Your feedback has been sent.

• 050-5757449
• [email protected]

Choose Your Best Holiday Destination

Tailor made packages for you.

Wildlife and Nature Tours

Desert Safari

Multi-Day Tours

Yacht Charter

Luxury Tours

Adventure Tours

Heritage Tours

Dhow Cruise

Historical Tours

Know more about our services..

Explore the world with our expert guides.

We offer both single and multiple-entry UAE visas for tourism, business, transit, investment, mission, medical treatment, education, property ownership, retirement, freelance work, and golden visa programs.

Popular Destinations

• AED 100 onwards

• AED 3200 onwards

• AED 2300 onwards

• AED 2500 onwards

Latest from our Blog

Your Next Trip to Spain - Plan your dream Andalucia trip

The Ultimate Guide to Exploring Thailand

Uncovering the Marvels of Dubai

What our clients say.

Discover why our clients love traveling with us! We believe that every journey should be an unforgettable adventure, and we work tirelessly to ensure that our clients have the experience of a lifetime. Don't just take our word for it, here's what our clients have to say:

"Thanks to your travel company, I had the trip of a lifetime in Thailand. The itinerary was perfect, the accommodations were top-notch, and the tour guides were knowledgeable and friendly. I especially loved visiting the temples in Bangkok and relaxing on the beautiful beaches. Can't wait to plan my next trip with your team. Highly recommended!."

"I had an amazing Maldives vacation thanks to [travel company name]. They provided top-notch accommodations and unforgettable activities. Highly recommend!."

"I had an amazing experience booking my Dubai trip with golden palace. The team was incredibly helpful and attentive, and everything was well-coordinated. Thanks for an unforgettable trip!."

Travel Insurance

Secure online payment.

Make secure payments for your travel booking using our convenient online payment portal. Click the link below to access our secure payment page and enter your payment details confidently.

Experience Our Ever Green Hospitality

Always exceeding expectations, room service, free parking, customer support.

single room

double room

Your vacation Awaits

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, conse ctetuer adipiscing elit..

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consec adipiscing elit. Nunc lorem nulla, ornare eu felis luctus non maximus vitae, portt neque. ipsum dolor sit amet, consec adipiscing elit.

Beatusish ingl

Luxury room, heaven seanery.

Lorem Ipsum is simply dummy text of the printing and typesetting industry. Lorem Ipsum has been the industry's standard dummy text ever since the 1500s, when an unknown printer took a galley of type and scrambled it to make a type specimen book. It has survived not only

Walter Hucko

Satisfied customer, jules boutin, attilio marzi, brilliance of ancestry.

Situated in the northern suburb of Kochi, Golden Palace stands tall in the culturally rich locale of North Paravur. Serving hospitality on par with the traditions and heritage, the hotel offers spellbinding accommodation facilities, tasteful restaurants, and eventful banquet facilities. Lying close to the ancient port of Muziris, the hotel is a perfect host for all kinds of travelers.

Radiance of happiness

Aramana, the banquet hall is equipped with state of the art facilities to make your events hassle free. The banquet hall is capable of handling all sorts of events with the adept hotel crew at your service to plan out your events.

Deliciousness of Aromas

Pathayam, the restaurant at Golden Palace along with its adept culinary team are bound to serve you delicacies from around the world. The aromas will leave you speechless and be wanting for more even after going away from the hotel. The culturally rich heritage of the locale is well experienced in Nilavara, the specialty restaurant of the hotel.

Recreation and Rejuvenation

The coastal district of Kollam was an erstwhile Port town in the bygone era. Blessed with a long coastline, it is the leader of the cashew trade and processing industry in India. Over a third of its surface is covered by the majestic Ashtamudi Lake, making Kollam a backwater world loved by travelers across the globe. Besides the commercial and financial hub of the city also offers a high-adrenaline city life to all. Whether you are a first-time visitor or have been to the city on several occasions, the Hotel Emerald Gardens can curate unique, off-beat sightseeing experiences of the place. A towering figure against the skyline of Kollam city, the Hotel Emerald Gardens s is built conveniently located to embody the best of both the worlds it inhabits - the amalgam of old-world charm and the invincible spirit of the bustling city. On a visit to the city guests can plan sightseeing and recreational trips to a handful of locations nearby that include Kollam Beach, Shrine of Our Lady Velankanni, Bishop Jerome Nagar Commercial Complex, Thangassery Fort, The Sardar Vallabhai Patel Police Museum, Ashtamudi Backwater stretch & Water sports, Shasthamcotta Lake, Munroe Island, Jatayu Earth Centre, Thenmala Eco-Tourism centre, Palaruvi Water Falls

Know More About Koratty.

Hotel Zodiac is conveniently located at a location ideal for sightseeing and recreation. Guests can easily explore the scenic beauty of Koratty during their stay here. And the travel-desk will also assist in planning the sightseeing trips to the interesting destinations nearby. The famous Korattymuthy Shrine Grotty Church, Aarangali Manapuram, Chalakudy River, are some sought after pilgrim and tourist destinations here. It’s also in close proximity to the IT hub of Thrissur like Koratty Infor Park.

• Golden Palace Transport
• Golden Palace Auto Care
• Golden Palace Travel & Tourism - Dubai
• Speedme Technicals
• Golden Palace Tours & Travels - India
• Speed Media Advertising
• Speedme Ship
• Ikkayees Restaurant
• Golden Synapse

Golden Palace Tours and Travels

" you don't have to be rich to travel well ", visa services, airline ticketing, holiday packages, hotel booking, travel consulting, travel insurance, explore the world .

Golden Palace Travel & Tourism have become one of the premier travel and tour operators in the UAE providing travel solutions internationally with primary focus on the UAE, India and The Far East. We maintain a high standard of operations catering to a wide range of clients including MNC’s. We have a wide network of operators providing end to end services with a committed service level response. Adoption of international practices and improved management of travel has resulted in reduced cost of operations, higher customer satisfaction and improved brand image. Our services will be extremely high quality, comfortable, informative and modified to the clients needs, Our goal is to make the right information available to the right target customers. We will ensure that our prices take into consideration peoples budgets, that these people appreciate the service(s) it is important to recognize that we do not intend to just take individuals on sightseeing pleasure trip, but also to ensure that they appreciate nature through informative briefing on objects origins. Hence we need to connect the right people in the right place at the right time if we are to guarantee best possible growth.

Mission & Vision

To Provide memorable experience, social and environmentally responsible, satisfying the needs of our clients and always exceeding their expectations. To delight all our clients with outstanding service by offering exciting holidays and perfectly organized travel that matches their needs and personalities.

Aqua Venture Water Park.

Desert safari with dinner, musandam dibba dhow cruise, aquarium and under water zoo, direct contracted hotels, local trade partners, tours & excursions, airlines deals, our services.

Golden Palace Travel & Tourism is the most popular visa service provider in UAE. We provide a complete UAE Visa service for different nationals wishing to travel to UAE. All visa procedures is simplified to such a way that you can get the visa sitting at home itself. Our dedicated visa experts show an excellent track record in dealing with all types of Duabi Visas & Services. For those who come to UAE for a Short/Business visit stay, 14 days tourist visa is the best option. Today in UAE, Golden Palace Travel & Tourism provides the fastest & easiest 90 days, 30 days, 14 days tourist visa solutions to the people all over the world.

Global Visa Assistance

Our visa experts will assist you to get visa to all the major countries like United States (US), United Kingdom (UK), Schengen countries (Europe), Australia, New zealand etc. and Electronic visa for selected nationals who are eligible for application to the countries like India, Srilanka, Bahrain and Turkey etc. Visa can be apply also to Far East countries like Malaysia, Singapore & Thailand and gulf countries UAE, Qatar.

Air Tickets Booking

We have special deals on airfares in domestic and international flights bookings in association with Emirates Airline, British Airway, Lufthansa, KLM, Swiss Air, Air France, Alitalia, Singapore Airline, Cathay Pacific, Gulf Air, Malaysian Airline, Thai Airway, Cyprus Airways etc. Group rates and corporate offers are also available.

Golden Palace Tours & Travels forte is handling groups and fit requirements inbound Dubai. With a focus on the growing market, we cater attractive holiday packages to various destinations in the world and the most attractive ones include the Far East and Europe. Golden Palace Travel & Tourism provide a high level of attention with the comfort of tailor-made itineraries for all our guests. From our trained and welcoming tour guides to our friendly chauffeurs and family excursions, all here to make your trip unforgettable.

Golden Palace Travel & Tourism L.L.C :

Suit no: 415, Deyaar Building Damascus Street, Al Qusais, Dubai. Phone: +97142563538 E Mail: [email protected] Mobile / Whatsapp: +971504007331 +971505757449 +971564167888

Golden Palace Travel & Tourism L.L.C (BRANCH):

• South Janatha Rd, Palarivattom, Kochi Kerala 682025

[email protected]

• Mon to Sat: 9.30 AM - 7.00 PM

Call Anytime

+91 7592010044

GET TO KNOW US

Experience the World with Our Golden Palace

Embark on an Unforgettable Journey of Luxury and Adventure with Our Golden Palace - Where Each Moment is Crafted to Perfection, Offering You a Timeless Experience to Treasure Forever. Let us be your guide as you immerse yourself in the opulence of our world-class amenities, indulge in exquisite culinary delights, and discover the wonders of our captivating destinations. Your adventure awaits at Our Golden Palace, where every step is a testament to our commitment to excellence and your ultimate satisfaction.

A Simply Perfect Place to Get Lost

Testimonial

What Our Customers are Saying?

Muhammed ellikal.

Delhi- Agra

Ashwanth Kok

One day trip

Are you ready to travel

Choose Our Tour Types & Enjoy Now

Unlock the Gates to Unforgettable Adventures: Your Passport to Luxury Starts Here at Our Golden Palace!

Low Price Friendly

Safety first always.

Special offer for you

Start your Journey with a Single Click

Embark on Your Next Adventure with Just One Click: Where Every Tap Unveils New Horizons and Endless Possibilities.

Happy Traveller

Destinations

Satisfaction Rate

Year Of Service

Meet Our Expert Team

Muhammed shiraz.

Managing Partner

Louy Abraham

Operations Manager

Fahid Salam

Travel Guide

A Brief History of Golden Palace

Golden Palace.

Golden Palace Travels and Tours.

Golden Palace Travel & Tourism LLC.

Golden Palace Travels.

Our Branches

South janatha rd, palarivattom, kochi.

[email protected]

[email protected]

[email protected]

Golden Triangle & Kerala

Itinerary Expand All

Day 1: delhi.

For those able to arrive very early today or the day prior, why not get off the beaten track and explore Old Delhi with us on our optional 'Backstreets of Delhi' add-on tour. You will get to relish the taste of various street foods, from savoury to sweet. Along the way, visit Khari Baoli, the largest spice market in India and the colourful Bazar Matia Mahal, located opposite the majestic Jama Masjid Mosque. The tour will combine a mixture of metro, electric rickshaw and walking to get around.

Day 2: Delhi

This morning we enjoy a packed day of sightseeing in Old and New Delhi. Check out the UNESCO-listed Humayun's Tomb and Jama Masjid - India's oldest and largest mosque. Visit the iconic Sikh temple Gurudwara Bangla Sahib and its community kitchen feeding 25,000-30,000 people daily. We also enjoy a thrilling rickshaw ride around the Chandni Chowk bazaar and explore New Delhi. Walk down the Rajpath, formerly known as the ‘King's Way' and see the famous India Gate monument.

This evening we enjoy a group Namaste dinner. (B/D)

Day 3: Agra

Today we travel to Agra , where we enjoy lunch before taking a tour of the legendary Taj Mahal, India's most famous site. This iconic white monument was built by the Emperor Shah Jahan in the 17th century in memory of his beloved wife. It is perhaps the most extravagant symbol of love the world has ever seen and has no rival. This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity watch the sunset fade over the magnificent mausoleum so make sure to take plenty of photos! (B)

Day 4: Karauli

Continue to either Karauli or Dholpur stopping for lunch en route. In Karauli, we will stay in the beautiful Palace Bhanwar Vilas. An eclectic melding of both Oriental and Art Deco architecture, the heritage-listed hotel was built in 1938 as a family home of the Maharaja of Jaipur. In Dholpur, we will stay at the magnificent Raj Niwas Palace, which is known for its red sandstone, traditional Rajisthani architecture, and European-style ceramics. It's said that this heritage-listed hotel was built by the Maharaja to welcome HRH Albert Edward, who visited in 1876.

Spend the afternoon at your leisure exploring the grounds, perhaps check out the vintage cars or take a dip in the swimming pools. This evening, you can also opt to attend the evening Aarti (prayer). (B/D)

Day 5: Jaipur

This morning we hit the road towards the vibrant UNESCO listed Pink City of Jaipur .

On arrival, we will spend the afternoon on a tour of the illustrious City Palace and the UNESCO-listed Jantar Mantar Space Observatory, which features 19 separate astrological instruments. (B)

Day 6: Jaipur

Enjoy an unforgettable experience early this morning with an optional balloon ride over Jaipur. Sail with the wind over the surrounding region and pass above hill-top forts and regal palaces.

Later, enjoy a jeep ride to Amber Fort for a guided tour and visit a cotton weaving house for an authentic demonstration of fabric dyeing. The remainder of the day is at your leisure, why not opt to explore the Johari Bazaar in the Old Pink City. (B)

Day 7: Delhi

Return to Delhi today where the rest of the day is at leisure. Perhaps visit the impressive Akshardham - the world's largest Hindu temple. (B)

Day 8: Kochi

We catch an early morning flight to Kochi today, in the beautiful southern state of Kerala. With a history that has seen Jewish exiles and Portuguese, Dutch and British colonisation, Kochi is a melting pot of culture and architectural styles. Enjoy the remainder of the day to relax or explore Kochi. (B)

Day 9: Munnar

Today we travel to the picturesque former hill station of Munnar, surrounded by sprawling tea plantations. We take a guided stroll through a local tea plantation and visit a local market, before the rest of the day is free to relax as you please. You may wish to visit nearby Blossom Park and enjoy cycling or boating in your stunning surroundings.

This evening we enjoy an included dinner and meet others joining our group who have been travelling on our longer South India Explorer itinerary. (B/D)

Day 10-11: Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary

A drive south to Periyar, South India's most popular wildlife sanctuary and home to bison, antelopes, sambar, wild boar, birds and even the odd tiger! Kumily, close to the sanctuary and where we'll stay, is a pretty little town dotted with small spice and handicraft shops. There is plenty to do in and around Periyar, so we leave the choice to you for the remainder of the day. On day 4 we will enjoy an included boat ride on Lake Periyar to spot herds of wild elephants, spending the remainder of the day at leisure to explore on own. You can opt for an optional visit to explore the spice plantation or enjoy a kalaripayattu dance performance Periyar. (Bx2)

Day 12: Alleppey

Today we leave Periyar and take a scenic drive to Alleppey. Here we board our private rice boat for a voyage through the famous Kerala backwaters. Our rice-boat takes us sedately along the enchanting palm-fringed backwaters, covering a distance of some 20 kms, during which time the boat glides past local villages and fascinating scenes of everyday rural life. Watch a beautiful sunset over the backwaters and enjoy tasty meals (starting with lunch) prepared by the on-board chef using fresh local produce. (B/L/D)

Day 13: Kumarakom

On the morning of day 6 we disembark our rice boat and take a short drive to Kumarakom - a village spread over a cluster of islands on Lake Vembanad. The day is free to relax or explore Kumarakom at your leisure. Perhaps take a boat ride on the lake or visit the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary. The sanctuary is home to many rare bird species and is an important stopover for migratory birds in the winter (Nov-May). (B)

Day 14: Kochi

Formerly a princely state, Kochi is also fondly referred to as “The Queen of the Arabian Sea”. The rest of the day is at leisure exploring Kochi on its own.

This evening you can opt for an optional tour to watch an entertaining and traditional Kathakali dance show. Kathakali performers are known for their elaborate costumes and makeup and they always put on a fantastic show. (B)

Day 15: Kochi

Trip inclusions expand all, sightseeing highlights.

• Agra – Enjoy a guided tour of impressive Agra Fort and the legendary Taj Mahal which is a lasting symbol of love
• Kerala Backwaters – Spend the night aboard our deluxe rice boat and explore the lush backwaters
• Delhi – Tour highlights of the city including Jama Masjid, the Rajpath and take a rickshaw ride around the Chandni Chowk bazaar
• Munnar – Stroll through a tea plantation on a guided walk and visit a local market
• Kumarakom – Relax or explore the famous Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary as we enjoy time at leisure
• Jaipur – Explore highlights of the Pink City including the City Palace and Jantar Mantar Space Observatory
• Kochi – Enjoy free time to explore the coastal city and perhaps enjoy a traditional Kathakali dance show
• Amber Fort – Visit this impressive 16th century fortress which sits on the shore of shimmering Maota Lake
• Karauli or Dholpur – Spend the night at the Maharaja's Palace Bhanwar Vilas in Karauli or the Raj Niwas Palace in Dholpur

Trip Inclusions

• Breakfast daily, 1 lunch and 4 dinners
• Guided sightseeing - Delhi, Jaipur, Agra, Karauli or Dholpur and Munnar
• Travel by jeep to beautiful Amber Fort in Jaipur
• Rickshaw ride in Delhi
• Boat ride on Lake Periyar
• Economy class flight: Delhi to Kochi
• Escorted by an English-speaking Indian tour guide (for groups of 4 or more)
• Services of English-speaking Indian specialist guides at some sites
• Airport arrival and departure transfer on days 1 and 15
• All relevant transfers and transportation in private air-conditioned vehicles

Accommodation

• 13 nights 3-4 star and heritage hotels
• 1 night deluxe houseboat on the scenic backwaters of Kerala
• Park Inn by Radisson New Delhi (Delhi)
• Royale Regent Hotel (Agra)
• Royale Sarovar Portico (Agra)
• Bhanwar Vilas Palace (Karauli)
• Raj Niwas Palace (Dholpur)
• Mandawa Haveli (Jaipur)
• Radisson Hotel Jaipur City Center (Jaipur)
• Trident Hotel Kochi (Kochi)
• Eastend Munnar (Munnar)
• The Elephant Court (Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary)
• Deluxe Houseboat (Alleppey)
• Eastend Lakesong (Kumarakom)

Trip Exclusions

• Excludes International flights and visa
• Excludes Tip for your tour guide. We recommend you allow USD$4-7 per day, per traveller. Tipping your guide is an entirely personal gesture
• Excludes Entrance Fees: USD$75-95pp, paid in local currency

On The Go Worldwide (2023-24)

Availability twin share (per person) solo share (per person) solo (own room), similar tours.

15 Days Delhi Delhi

Operated By: On The Go Tours

15 Days Delhi Colombo

15 Days Paro Kathmandu

14 Days Chennai Kochi

On The Go Tours

Travel Styles

© 2010-2024. Global Journeys. You're viewing our site in Australian dollars.

About Us | View Your Booking | Terms & Conditions | Site Map | We're Hiring!

Global Journeys Pty Ltd. Member of The Australian Travel Industry Association (AITA) & ATAS Travel Accredited (No. A11351).

Kinkakuji (Golden Pavilion)

Kinkakuji (���t��, Golden Pavilion) is a Zen temple in northern Kyoto whose top two floors are completely covered in gold leaf. Formally known as Rokuonji, the temple was the retirement villa of the shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu , and according to his will it became a Zen temple of the Rinzai sect after his death in 1408. Kinkakuji was the inspiration for the similarly named Ginkakuji (Silver Pavilion) , built by Yoshimitsu's grandson, Ashikaga Yoshimasa, on the other side of the city a few decades later.

Kinkakuji is an impressive structure built overlooking a large pond, and is the only building left of Yoshimitsu's former retirement complex. It has burned down numerous times throughout its history including twice during the Onin War , a civil war that destroyed much of Kyoto; and once again more recently in 1950 when it was set on fire by a fanatic monk. The present structure was rebuilt in 1955.

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 .

The first floor is built in the Shinden style used for palace buildings during the Heian Period , and with its natural wood pillars and white plaster walls contrasts yet complements the gilded upper stories of the pavilion. Statues of the Shaka Buddha (historical Buddha) and Yoshimitsu are stored in the first floor. Although it is not possible to enter the pavilion, the statues can be viewed from across the pond if you look closely, as the sliding doors are usually left open.

The second floor is built in the Bukke style used in samurai residences, and has its exterior completely covered in gold leaf. Inside is a seated Kannon Bodhisattva surrounded by statues of the Four Heavenly Kings; however, the statues are not shown to the public. Finally, the third and uppermost floor is built in the style of a Chinese Zen Hall, is gilded inside and out, and is capped with a golden phoenix.

After viewing Kinkakuji from across the pond, visitors pass by the head priest's former living quarters (hojo) which are known for their painted sliding doors (fusuma), but are not open to the public. The path once again passes by Kinkakuji from behind then leads through the temple's gardens which have retained their original design from Yoshimitsu's days. The gardens hold a few other spots of interest including Anmintaku Pond that is said to never dry up, and statues that people throw coins at for luck.

Continuing through the garden takes you to the Sekkatei Teahouse, added to Kinkakuji during the Edo Period , before you exit the paid temple area. Outside the exit are souvenir shops, a small tea garden, where you can have matcha tea and sweets , and Fudo Hall, a small temple hall which houses a statue of Fudo Myoo, one of the Five Wisdom Kings and protector of Buddhism . The statue is said to be carved by Kobo Daishi, one of the most important figures in Japanese religious history.

Getting there and around

Kinkakuji can be accessed from Kyoto Station by direct Kyoto City Bus number 205 in about 40 minutes and for 230 yen. Alternatively, it can be faster and more reliable to take the Karasuma Subway Line to Kitaoji Station (15 minutes, 260 yen) and a taxi (10 minutes, about 1300 yen) or bus (10 minutes, 230 yen, bus numbers 204 or 205) from there to Kinkakuji.

How to get to and around Kyoto

Hours and Fees

Questions? Ask in our forum .

Links and Resources

Hotels around kyoto.

Experiences around Kyoto