Kinkaku-ji | Review by BobbyJenny

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Kinkaku-ji

A golden pavilion nestled in the greens of Kitayama.

21 Sep 2026 See More

It’s really hard not to be drawn to Kinkaku-ji in Kyoto! Its official name is Rokuon-ji, and its most iconic sight is the glittering golden Shariden reflected in Kyoko-chi Pond. It was still beautiful at first sight and is definitely one of Kyoto’s most representative views.

As you stroll through the garden, you can admire Kinkaku-ji from different angles. With the pond, greenery, and surrounding Japanese garden scenery, every angle offers a different feeling. The golden building is especially striking in the sunlight when the weather is nice.

Although Kinkaku-ji is a very popular attraction in Kyoto and gets quite crowded, once you enter the garden, you can still feel the elegance of a traditional Japanese garden. It’s nice to take your time walking around and taking photos, especially for first-time visitors to Kyoto.

Other Reviews by BobbyJenny

Kitano Tenmangu Shrine

Since built in 947, this 1000-year-old edifice is the head of 12,000 Tenmangu / Tenjin shrines nationwide dedicated to Sugawara no Michizane. Tenjin worship has begun here. Locals call it Tenjin-san of Kitano or Kitano-san.
- Kyoto Station, Shijo Kawaramachi, Kyoto Imperial Palace
- Shrines & Temples
21 Sep 2026 See More

When I visited Kitano Tenmangu Shrine in Kyoto, I was really looking forward to seeing the plum blossoms in full bloom. Unfortunately, only a small number were blooming when I went, so I missed the most dreamlike view of them all in full bloom.

Even though I didn't get to see a whole landscape of blooming plum trees, I could still feel the atmosphere of the ancient capital. Together with Kitano Tenmangu Shrine's traditional architecture and shrine atmosphere, the occasional plum tree in full bloom gave the photos a charm of their own.

This visit was more like scouting the location in advance, so I was a little disappointed. If I could visit when the plum blossoms are in full bloom, I'm sure the entire Kitano Tenmangu Shrine would be even more beautiful. Just imagining the plum blossoms paired with the vermilion buildings makes me look forward to it.
Kanazawa FORUS

Located only a 1-minute walk from JR Kanazawa Station, this commercial facility operated by OPA features approximately 190 stores on each of its eight floors, offering a wide variety of goods from fashion items to interior goods, lifestyle goods, cosmetics, jewelry, etc. The lineup of stores has been renewed with the opening of new stores and the renewal of existing stores, and upgraded to the latest contents that show the "present" of Kanazawa.
- Kanazawa
- Commercial Buildings
21 Sep 2026 See More

For shopping near Kanazawa Station, Kanazawa FORUS is really convenient! It’s right next to the station and very easy to find, making it a great place for independent travelers to visit along with other spots around the station.

There are quite a few clothing, lifestyle goods, beauty, and restaurant options inside, so you can easily spend some time browsing. After exploring Kanazawa Station and Hyakubangai, you can come over to FORUS and continue shopping, making for a very smooth itinerary.

I really like shopping malls like this where you don’t have to travel far to shop. It’s especially convenient when you want to buy a few things or pick up some more souvenirs at the end of your trip. Overall, it’s also very relaxing to walk around without feeling like you’re rushing through your itinerary.
Kenroku-en

Kenroku-en was founded and developed for about 180 years by the Maeda clan lord in Kaga, which is a strolling-style landscape garden and one of the three most beautiful gardens in Japan.
- Kanazawa
- Parks & Gardens
21 Sep 2026 See More

I happened to visit Kenroku-en in Kanazawa during the nighttime illumination, and it felt completely different from the scenery during the day. The lights reflected on the garden, ponds, and trees, giving the entire garden a quiet and romantic atmosphere.

Walking through the grounds at night, it wasn’t as bright as during the day, which actually made it easier to appreciate the depth and layers of the garden’s design. The lights reflected on the water were especially beautiful in photos, together with the surrounding trees and traditional buildings.

I originally thought Kenroku-en was already beautiful during the day, but the nighttime illumination gave it a completely different charm. Taking a slow stroll through the garden, enjoying the lights while experiencing the tranquility of Kanazawa at night, was truly atmospheric.