the show where each episode I tell you about a place in Japan, and then we go there

and despite what seasons 1 & 2 may have led you to believe

there is in fact more to see in Japan than just what's in Tokyo

and with that in mind, this season we're headed to the former captial of the country Kyoto

which also has the highest density of shrines, temples, old stuff, and tourists taking pictures of them

Today we're headed to Kinkakuji, which is one of the most iconic places in the entire coutnry

and one of the 17 locations that make-up the "Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto UNESCO World Heritage Site"

Basically we're talking about a 3 story zen temple

next to a pond

with the top 2 stories covered in gold leaf.

And as if being shiny wasn't good enough,

each level of the building was built in a different historical architecture style seen here.

Now, I know what you're thinking,

and the answer to your first question is yes, that IS a gold phoenix on the top.

but to answer your second question no, you are not allowed inside the temple.

So, when you visit, after visiting the Golden Pavilion itself,

you'll walk through the beautifully manicured complex

along paths where you'll encounter things like

places to throw money

places to spend money

places to eat money

and of course, stone lanters

if this is your first time to Kyoto, Kinkakuji is a must visit location

I'm not trying to tell you what to do

but you have to visit Kinkakuji.

So let's go see it for ourselves.

I'm curious if this sort of major tourist attraction like Kinkakuji interests you, or if you'd rather see more off the beaten path, hidden-gem kind-of locations.

Let me know your preference in the comments

Thanks for watching, I'm Andrew Marston, see you next time.

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