Ginkaku-ji, which is also listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, is as popular with tourists as Kinkaku-ji.
Its architectural style and gardens, which embody wabi-sabi, are beloved not only in Japan but around the world.
For those interested in Kyoto’s history and the origins of its temples, we recommend a quiz about Ginkaku-ji.
We’ll cover a wide range of questions, from basics like why Ginkaku-ji was built and its official name, to quizzes about the gardens and pond on the grounds.
Give these questions a try and enjoy learning fun facts and trivia about Ginkaku-ji.
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Trivia quiz about Ginkaku-ji: 3 multiple-choice questions (1–10) to learn about Kyoto’s history
Which temple’s extramural sub-temple is Ginkaku-ji?
- Shōkoku-ji (Shokoku Temple)
- Kiyomizu-dera (Kiyomizu Temple)
- Kinkaku-ji (the Golden Pavilion)
See the answer
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.
What is painted on the Silver Pavilion?
- mercury
- gold leaf
- black lacquer
See the answer
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.
What is the name of the mountain behind Ginkaku-ji?
- Mount Daimonji
- Mount Hiei
- Higashiyama
See the answer
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.
What was the purpose for which Ashikaga Yoshimasa built Ginkaku-ji?
- As the center of politics
- for making money
- For retirement
See the answer
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.
Which temple served as the model for Ginkaku-ji?
- Tōdai-ji (Todai-ji Temple)
- Kiyomizu-dera (Kiyomizu Temple)
- Saihō-ji (Saihoji Temple; also known as the Moss Temple)
See the answer
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.
What is the official name of Ginkaku-ji?
- Kinkaku-ji (the Golden Pavilion)
- Higashiyama Jishō-ji (Ginkaku-ji, the Silver Pavilion)
- Kiyomizu-dera (Kiyomizu Temple)
See the answer
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.
When was Ginkaku-ji registered as a World Heritage Site?
- 1994
- 1985
- 2003
See the answer
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.