Trivia quiz about Ginkaku-ji: three multiple-choice questions to learn about Kyoto’s history

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.

Because the Kannon Hall within the Higashiyama Palace was called the Silver Pavilion.

The name Ginkaku-ji originally comes from the fact that the Kannon Hall on the temple grounds was called “Ginkaku,” or the Silver Pavilion. It wasn’t silver from the time the main hall was built, and in fact no silver was used. However, because of the name of this Kannon Hall, people eventually began referring to the entire temple as “Ginkaku-ji.”

Shakyamuni Buddha

The principal image at Ginkaku-ji is Shakyamuni Buddha. Shakyamuni is the form of Prince Gautama Siddhartha of the Shakya clan after attaining enlightenment and becoming the Buddha Shakyamuni, and he is one of the most revered Buddhas in Buddhism.

Sengetsu Spring

The waterfall in the garden of Ginkaku-ji (Jishō-ji) is called Sengetsusen. This waterfall flows while bathing in moonlight and making a refreshing sound, symbolizing the act of purifying the moon’s light. The garden of Ginkaku-ji was created based on meticulous planning, and a defining feature is that even details like Sengetsusen are imbued with meaning.

Higashiyama Culture

Ginkaku-ji was founded by Ashikaga Yoshimasa, the 8th shogun of the Muromachi shogunate. The temple especially symbolizes what is known as Higashiyama culture. Characterized by refined and tasteful arts and architectural styles of the time, Higashiyama culture is embodied by Ginkaku-ji, which remains one of the most important temples conveying its spirit and aesthetic to the present day.