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Kinkakuji, also known as the Golden Pavilion, is a Zen temple in Kyoto, Japan, whose top two floors are completely covered in gold leaf. It is a designated UNESCO world heritage site and represents the Muromachi period of Japanese culture and architecture. Originally built as a retirement villa for the shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu in 1397, it was converted into a Zen temple upon his death in accordance with his will. The temple's design, which includes elements of Shinden, Samurai, and Zen architecture, reflects the cultural fusion that characterized the Muromachi period. The pavilion's tranquil surroundings, including a beautiful garden and a reflecting pond, make it a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. Kinkakuji is not only an architectural masterpiece but also a symbol of Japan's rich cultural history and tradition.