Kinkakuji

    Usually referred to as the Golden temple this is one of the most beautiful sights in Japan.  With the official name of Rokuonji this temple has a stunning appearance and is a must see.  It was formally called Shariden.  This building is surrounded by a gorgeous pond that is called Kyoko chi (mirror pond).  Also on the premises there is a traditional tea house that is called Sekka Tei, and a small shrine dedicated to the deity Fudo Myo Oh. 

    Dating all the way back to the 1220's this was originally a comfortable villa for a one Kitsune Saionji.  The third shogun of the Ashikaga, Yoshimitsu made special efforts to make this a breath taking site after taking throne in 1394.  Following Yoshimitsu's death Kinkakuji was made into a Zen temple according to his will.  Most of the buildings with exception to the Kinkaku temple have came to ruin.  The golden temple and the Japanese garden are said to be the same as they were years ago.