“The Silver Pavilion, without gold leaf, embodies the essence of Japanese beauty.”
That’s how Taro Okamoto once described Ginkakuji Temple.
This mountain villa, built as Higashiyamadono by the 8th shogun, Ashikaga Yoshimasa, during the Muromachi period, exudes a tranquil beauty that is different from that of Kinkaku-ji Temple.
Plans to cover the National Treasure Kannon Hall (Silver Pavilion) in silver leaf were not realized due to war, but the texture of the bare wood itself expresses the sophistication of Japanese architecture.
The Ginsanda and Kogetsudai platforms, made of white sand, are an innovative design that was conceived to be illuminated by moonlight, and even now, 600 years later, they continue to stimulate our sensibilities.
A space where sophisticated aesthetics and innovative art coexist, something that cannot be fully expressed by the words “wabi-sabi.”
In this article, we will look at the history and highlights of Ginkakuji Temple.
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What kind of place is Ginkakuji Temple?
Image source: Ginkakuji Temple official website Ginkakuji Temple, located in Sakyo Ward, Kyoto City, is a temple of the Rinzai sect of Buddhism and its official name is Jisho-ji Temple .
Its origins lie in the mountain villa “Higashiyamadono” built by Ashikaga Yoshimasa, the 8th Shogun of the Muromachi Shogunate.
The national treasure Kannon Hall (Ginkakuji) is a two-story wooden tower, with the first floor called “Shinkuden” and the second floor called “Choinkaku.”
Unlike Kinkakuji Temple, it is not covered in silver leaf, but the texture of the bare wood expresses the sophistication of Japanese architecture .
Within the grounds are the white sand “Ginsanda” beach, the Mount Fuji-shaped “Kogetsuda” moon platform, and a vast garden that has been designated a Special Place of Scenic Beauty.
In addition, the strolling garden with Kinkyo Pond at its center offers beautiful scenery that changes with the seasons.
The History of Ginkakuji Temple
Ginkakuji Temple is a representative temple of the Muromachi period and has a history of over 600 years.
In particular, as the center of “Higashiyama culture,” it had a great influence on Japanese culture and the arts.
Construction of Higashiyama Palace
In 1482, Ashikaga Yoshimasa, the eighth shogun of the Muromachi shogunate, began construction of a mountain villa called Higashiyamaden, modelled on the Kitayamaden (Kinkakuji) of his grandfather Yoshimitsu, on the site of Jodo-ji Temple, which had been burned down during the Onin War.
Materials were collected from many temples and shrines for the construction, and approximately 2,000 laborers were mobilized.
The Kannon Hall (Silver Pavilion) was originally planned to be covered in silver leaf to rival the Golden Pavilion, but this was prevented from happening due to war.
After retiring, Yoshimasa devoted himself to artistic activities such as the tea ceremony, flower arranging, and calligraphy, and many cultural figures gathered at Higashiyama Palace. However, he passed away at the age of 55 in 1490 (Entoku 2) without seeing the completion of the Kannon Hall.
Development as Jisho-ji Temple
According to Yoshimasa’s last command, Higashiyamadono was converted into a temple and named “Jishoin” after Yoshimasa’s posthumous Buddhist name.
In 1491, the third year of the Entoku era, Muso Soseki was invited to be the temple’s founder, and the temple’s name was changed to “Jishoji Temple. “
During this period, Higashiyamaden became a center for various cultural arts, including tea ceremony, Noh, and flower arranging.
However, in 1550, due to a dispute between the 15th shogun, Yoshiaki, and Miyoshi Nagayoshi, the temple lost all buildings except for the Kannon Hall and Togudo.
Even after that, the temple’s fortunes were forced to temporarily decline due to the turmoil of the Sengoku period.
Establishment as Ginkakuji Temple
It underwent renovations in 1615 and 1639, and is now close to its current appearance.
From this time onwards, the Kannon Hall came to be called the “Silver Pavilion” in contrast to the “Golden Pavilion” of Kinkaku-ji Temple, and later the temple itself came to be commonly referred to as “Silver Pavilion.”
In 1900, it was designated a Special Protected Building, and in 1951, it was designated a National Treasure along with Togudo.
Furthermore, in 1953, the garden was designated a Special Place of Scenic Beauty, and in 1994, it was registered as a World Heritage Site as part of the cultural assets of the ancient capital of Kyoto.
Even today, it is visited by many tourists and is carefully preserved as one of Japan’s leading cultural heritage sites.
Highlights of Ginkakuji Temple
Ginkakuji Temple is dotted with valuable cultural assets and gardens that have been passed down since the Muromachi period.
The following three places in particular are must-sees when you visit.
Highlights of Ginkakuji Temple
National Treasure: Kannon Hall (Ginkakuji)
Kinkyo Pond and
Ginsanda and Kogetsudai
①National Treasure Kannon Hall (Ginkakuji)
Image source: Shokokuji Temple It is a two-story building with four bays at the front and three bays on the side, with the first floor being the Shoin-style “Shinkuden” and the second floor being the Zen-style “Choinkaku.” It is an architectural structure of two different styles.
It was modeled after the Ruriden Hall of Saihoji Temple and features an elegant design with a thatched roof and flower-shaped windows with white paper screens.
In contrast to the gold leaf-covered Kinkakuji, the texture of the bare wood expresses the sophistication of Japanese architecture.
②Kinkyo Pond and stone bridges
Image source: Praise of Form Seven stone bridges span the Kinkyo Pond, the centerpiece of the strolling pond garden.
In particular, Senkei Bridge is the only stone bridge built during the Muromachi period, and is characterized by its thin and delicate appearance.
Elements that convey the beauty of the Muromachi period can be seen everywhere, such as Hakutsuru Island and the stonework on the banks of Dejima.
③ Ginsanda and Kogetsudai
Image source: Shokokuji Temple The white sand “Ginshadan” that spreads out in front of the main hall and the 1.8-meter-high “Kogetsuda” (Moon-Landing Platform) are unique garden elements that were created in the early Edo period.
In particular, the Kogetsudai platform is said to have had the role of reflecting moonlight to illuminate Ginkaku-ji Temple4, and its innovative design continues to fascinate many people even today
What is the best season to visit Ginkakuji Temple?
Ginkakuji Temple is a temple where you can enjoy its beauty in all four seasons, but it is especially popular from mid-November to early December when the autumn leaves are at their best.
In spring and autumn, the Togudo Hall, Hojo, and Noseiseitei Pavilion, which are usually closed to the public, are open to the public for special viewing.
The special spring 2024 viewing period ran from March 20th to May 6th, with guided viewings six times a day.
You can also enjoy the scenery of each season from the observation deck. In autumn, the surrounding mountains take on a colorful autumn color, and in winter, you can enjoy the dignified scenery of snow-covered mountains.
If you want to avoid the crowds, we recommend visiting early in the morning.
It is a popular spot, especially during the autumn foliage season, so visiting early in the day will make for a more comfortable sightseeing experience.
Access to Ginkakuji Temple
Ginkakuji Temple is located in Sakyo Ward, Kyoto City and can be accessed by multiple means of transportation.
Many tourists arrive from Kyoto Station or Kinkakuji Temple, so we will explain in detail how to get there from each location.
Access from Kyoto Station
The most convenient way to get there is by city bus.
Take route 5 (approx. 40 minutes) from bus stop A1 at the Karasuma Exit of Kyoto Station, or route 17 (approx. 35 minutes) from bus stop A2, and get off at Ginkakuji-michi.
The fee is 230 yen.
Alternatively, if you take the subway, you can take the Karasuma Line to Imadegawa Station and then transfer to a bus from there.
If you take a taxi, it will take about 25 minutes and cost around 2,600 yen.
Access methods Bus, subway, taxi Travel time Bus: 1 hour 15 minutes Fee Bus: 230 yen
Access from Kinkakuji Temple
The most convenient way to get from Kinkakuji to Ginkakuji is to take city bus route 204.
Get on at the Kinkakuji-michi bus stop and get off at the Ginkakuji-michi bus stop.
The journey takes about 50 minutes and costs 230 yen.
If you go by bicycle, it will take about 30 to 40 minutes to get there.
If you take a taxi, it will take about 20 to 30 minutes and cost around 2,000 to 3,000 yen.
If you walk, it’s about 7.5 kilometers away, so you can enjoy the Kyoto cityscape while strolling at a leisurely pace.
Access methods Bus, bicycle, taxi Travel time Bus: 50 minutes Fee Bus: 230 yen
Ginkakuji Temple admission fees and opening hours
Basic information about Ginkakuji Temple is summarized in the table below.
項目 content Visiting hours Summer (March 1st to November 30th): 8:30-17:00 Admission fee Adults (high school students and above): 500 yen Special admission fee 2,000 yen (mountain entrance fee not included) *Special goshuin included holiday Open all year round Travel time Approximately 30 to 40 minutes Important Notes ・Special admissions are held in spring and autumn.
Recommended spots around Ginkakuji Temple
The area around Ginkakuji Temple is dotted with historical sights.
We especially recommend the following three spots:
Philosopher’s Path
Image source: Kyoto Tourism Navi This is a 2-kilometer walking path located about a 13-minute walk from Ginkakuji Temple.
This path runs along the Lake Biwa Canal branch and is known as a famous spot for viewing cherry blossoms and autumn leaves.
The path was named after philosophers such as Kitaro Nishida, who used to walk there while lost in thought.
This is a promenade where you can enjoy nature throughout the four seasons, and it is especially crowded with tourists during the spring cherry blossom and autumn foliage seasons.
Honen-in Temple
Image source: That’s right, let’s go to Kyoto This is a Jodo sect temple located a 7-minute walk from Ginkakuji Temple. 4 Beautiful gardens and historical buildings blend in harmony in a tranquil atmosphere.
It is especially beautiful during the autumn foliage season, and since there are relatively few tourists, you can take your time and enjoy the autumn atmosphere.
In addition, a special viewing called “Honen-in Temple at Night” is held on the first Saturday evening of every month.
Eikando (Zenrinji Temple)
Image source: That’s right, let’s go to Kyoto It is the head temple of the Jodo sect of Buddhism, Seizan Zenrinji school, and is located about a 30-minute walk from Ginkakuji Temple.
There are about 3,000 maple trees planted here, and it is known as one of Kyoto’s leading spots for viewing autumn leaves.
The autumn leaves from mid- to late November in particular attract many tourists to Eikando Temple, known as “Maple Leaves.”
FAQs about Ginkakuji
Can I visit the inside of the Kannon Hall (Ginkakuji) of Ginkakuji Temple?
Usually, only the garden can be viewed, and the interior of the Kannon Hall is not open to the public.
The upper floor of the Kannon Hall is called Choinkaku and the lower floor is called Shinkuden. A wooden statue of Kannon Bodhisattva is enshrined on the upper floor and 1,000 Jizo statues are enshrined on the lower floor.
Unlike Kinkakuji Temple, it is not covered in silver leaf, but the texture of the bare wood expresses the sophistication of Japanese architecture.
What are the viewing hours and how long does it take?
Visiting hours are 8:30-17:00 in summer (March to November) and 9:00-16:30 in winter (December to February).
A normal visit takes about 30 minutes.
If you want to avoid the crowds, we recommend visiting early in the morning.
What can you see during special viewings?
During special viewing periods in spring and autumn, the Togudo Hall, Hojo, and Noseiseitei Pavilion, which are normally closed to the public, are open to the public.
In particular, the Hojo has a collection of sliding door paintings by Yosa Buson and Ike Taiga, which can be viewed with a guide.
Is there parking available?
There is no car or bicycle parking available to the public on the temple grounds.
Please use the nearby Kyoto City Ginkakuji Tourist Parking Lot (municipal parking) or paid parking lots.
summary
Ginkakuji Temple is a Rinzai sect temple of the Shokokuji school, originating from the mountain villa “Higashiyamadono” built by the 8th Shogun, Ashikaga Yoshimasa, during the Muromachi period.
Its official name is Jisho-ji Temple, and it is registered as a World Heritage Site as a representative structure of Higashiyama culture.
Special viewings are held in spring and autumn, allowing you to see the Togudo Hall, Hojo, and Nonching Pavilion, which are normally closed to the public.
If you are in Kyoto, be sure to visit this historic temple, which combines traditional Japanese beauty with innovative design.
