Ginkaku-ji Temple (GINKAKU-JI
銀閣寺
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The Silver Pavilion
Ginkaku-ji Temple (GINKAKU-JI is a historic shrine and temple in Higashiyama, Kyoto. Travel through its seasons and highlights across 7 on-location videos before you visit.
Ginkaku-ji, the 'Silver Pavilion', is a Zen temple at the foot of the Higashiyama hills, founded in 1482 as the retirement villa of shogun Ashikaga Yoshimasa. Never actually silvered, it is admired for its restraint, the moonlight 'Sea of Silver Sand', and a strolling garden of moss and ponds — the essence of Higashiyama culture.
History & Culture
Yoshimasa's Retreat
Built by Ashikaga Yoshimasa as a counterpart to his grandfather's Golden Pavilion, the villa became a temple after his death and a wellspring of tea, ink painting and garden arts.
Ginkakuji-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto
Daytime; hours vary by season
Admission charged
Hours and fees are a guide and may change — please check official information before your visit.
