During the 14th century, nobleman Saionji Kintsune built the Kitayama-dai villa here. In 1397, it was acquired and expanded by shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu. He called his lavish retirement estate Kitayama-den Palace. During the 15th century, his son, Yoshimochi, converted the elegant property into Rokuon-ji (Deer Garden Temple). More commonly, this national treasure is referred to as Kinkaku-ji or the Golden Pavilion Temple. The surrounding lake is aptly named Kyoko-chi meaning Mirror Pond. Dotting the reflective water are ten islets. The results: absolutely stunning!