Shōkoku-ji (Shokoku Temple)

Ginkaku-ji is known as a sub-temple of Shokoku-ji located outside its main precincts. A “tatchu” refers to a small temple that, while under the authority of the head temple, has its own abbot and functions independently. Ginkaku-ji was founded by Ashikaga Yoshimasa, a shogun of the Muromachi period.

black lacquer

As its name suggests, you might imagine Ginkaku-ji to have a silver exterior, but in reality it is coated with black lacquer. This allows the building to develop an elegant luster over time. Unlike Kinkaku-ji, Ginkaku-ji is not adorned with luxurious gold leaf, and is characterized by its serene and subdued appearance.

Mount Daimonji

Located behind Ginkaku-ji is Mount Daimonji. As its name suggests, a large character shaped like the kanji for “big” (大) is inscribed on the mountain. This Daimonji is also famous for the Gozan no Okuribi bonfire held every August. From Ginkaku-ji, you can view the Japanese garden with Mount Daimonji as a backdrop, a scenery beloved by many.

For retirement

Ashikaga Yoshimasa built Ginkaku-ji as his retirement villa. After serving as the eighth shogun of the Muromachi shogunate, he designed and constructed Ginkaku-ji as a place to spend a peaceful later life.

Saihō-ji (Saihoji Temple; also known as the Moss Temple)

Ginkaku-ji was built by Ashikaga Yoshimasa, a shogun of the Muromachi period. It is said that its model was Saihō-ji (Kokedera), a temple he especially cherished. Influenced by the beautiful gardens and architectural style of Saihō-ji, Ginkaku-ji was constructed.

Higashiyama Jishō-ji (Ginkaku-ji, the Silver Pavilion)

The official name of Ginkaku-ji is Higashiyama Jishō-ji. It was built by Ashikaga Yoshimasa, a shogun of the Muromachi period, and although it is not actually covered with silver leaf, it is known for its distinctive architectural style and gardens.

1994

Ginkaku-ji was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1994 (Heisei 6). Its beautiful gardens and distinctive architectural style captivate many people and are regarded as one of the quintessential symbols of Japanese culture.

Rinzai school (of Zen Buddhism)

Ginkaku-ji is formally named Jishō-ji and belongs to the Shōkoku-ji branch of the Rinzai school. Built by the Muromachi-period shogun Ashikaga Yoshimasa, this temple is, along with Kinkaku-ji, one of Kyoto’s most iconic attractions and houses many cultural properties.

Nishikagami Pond

The pond in the garden of Ginkaku-ji is called Nishiki-kagami Pond. It is said to have been named because the water was as beautiful as brocade. It is a garden pond whose overall balance creates a strikingly beautiful contrast.

the year 1490

Ginkaku-ji was built by Ashikaga Yoshimasa as a mountain villa in Higashiyama. Initially known as a pavilion for moon viewing, it became a gathering place for arts and culture. Later, through repeated renovations, it has been opened to visitors while preserving the style of its original construction.