Ginkaku-ji (Silver Pavilion)
Ginkaku-ji, officially known as Jishō-ji, is located in the Sakyo Ward of Kyoto City and is affiliated with the Rinzai school of the Shokoku-ji sect. Originally built as a villa called "Higashiyama-den" by Ashikaga Yoshimasa during the Muromachi period, it was established as a temple after his death. This temple is extremely popular among domestic and international tourists, particularly the "Silver Pavilion," known as Kannon-dō. The pavilion was intended to be covered in silver foil, but it was left unfinished due to Yoshimasa's untimely death, embodying the spirit of “wabi-sabi” with its simple beauty.
The gardens feature beautiful white sand known as "Ginsha-dan" and a moon-viewing platform called "Kōgetsu-dai," which has been designated as a Special Place of Scenic Beauty and a Special Historic Site in Japan. Visitors can enjoy the beauty of the gardens through the changing seasons, and during spring and autumn, the interior of the main hall, Tōkudō, and Rōseitei is open to special viewings.
This temple is also registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, highlighting its significant historical and cultural value. In contrast to Kinkaku-ji, Ginkaku-ji is an essential spot to visit while in Kyoto, allowing visitors to appreciate its rich history and unique beauty. A visit to Ginkaku-ji offers a valuable opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of Japanese culture and the essence of "wabi-sabi."
The gardens feature beautiful white sand known as "Ginsha-dan" and a moon-viewing platform called "Kōgetsu-dai," which has been designated as a Special Place of Scenic Beauty and a Special Historic Site in Japan. Visitors can enjoy the beauty of the gardens through the changing seasons, and during spring and autumn, the interior of the main hall, Tōkudō, and Rōseitei is open to special viewings.
This temple is also registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, highlighting its significant historical and cultural value. In contrast to Kinkaku-ji, Ginkaku-ji is an essential spot to visit while in Kyoto, allowing visitors to appreciate its rich history and unique beauty. A visit to Ginkaku-ji offers a valuable opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of Japanese culture and the essence of "wabi-sabi."
Basic Information
- Spot Name
- Ginkaku-ji (Silver Pavilion)
- Location
- 〒606-8402 2 Ginkakuji-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto Prefecture, Japan
- Access
- 5-minute walk from the city bus stop "Ginkakuji-mae"
10-minute walk from the city bus stop "Ginkakuji-michi" - Parking
- 12 buses and 40 regular cars.
- Business Hours
- Visiting Hours
Summer (March 1 - November 30)
8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Winter (December 1 - February 28)
9:00 AM - 4:30 PM - Regular Holiday
- Open year-round.
- Fees
- Admission Fee
Adults (High school students and above) 500 yen
Elementary and middle school students 300 yen - Contact Information
- Phone Number：075-771-5725
- Official Website
