Labrador Nature Reserve | Western Region

Ginkaku-ji, also known as the Silver Pavilion, is a Zen Buddhist temple located in the Sakyo Ward of Kyoto, Japan.

Visual Characteristics

The pavilion itself is a two-story structure, approximately 7 meters in height, constructed primarily of wood with a dark, unpainted exterior. Its roof is a multi-tiered hip-and-gable style, covered in dark tiles. The grounds feature a meticulously raked sand garden, known as the Sea of Silver Sand, and a moss garden. A small pond, the Mirror Pond, is situated in front of the pavilion.

Location & Access Logistics

Ginkaku-ji is situated in the northeastern part of Kyoto. It is approximately 5 kilometers east of Kyoto Station. Access is primarily via bus. Bus lines 5, 17, and 100 stop at the Ginkakuji-michi bus stop, which is a 5-minute walk from the temple entrance. Limited street parking is available in the vicinity, but is often congested. The nearest train station is Keage Station on the Tozai Subway Line, approximately a 20-minute walk away.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Construction of Ginkaku-ji began in 1482 under the patronage of Ashikaga Yoshimasa, the eighth shogun of the Muromachi period. It was originally intended as a retirement villa and was later converted into a Zen temple after Yoshimasa's death. The design reflects the Higashiyama culture of the period.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can walk the grounds of the temple, observing the pavilion from the exterior. The meticulously maintained sand garden and moss garden are key features. A path leads up a small hill behind the pavilion, offering views of the temple complex and the surrounding city. Photography of the pavilion's exterior is permitted.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available on-site. Limited shaded areas are present within the garden. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally available. Food vendors and small restaurants are located along the approach to the temple.

Best Time to Visit

For optimal lighting on the pavilion's exterior, early morning or late afternoon is recommended. The best months for visiting are typically spring (March-May) for mild weather and autumn (September-November) for foliage. There are no tide-dependent activities.

Facts & Legends

Despite its name, Ginkaku-ji was never actually covered in silver leaf. The name "Silver Pavilion" is believed to have originated from a poetic description or a later misinterpretation. The Sea of Silver Sand garden features a large conical sand mound called the "Moon Viewing Platform," intended to reflect moonlight.

Nearby Landmarks

• Nanzen-ji Temple (1.2km Southwest)
• Eikan-do Zenrin-ji Temple (0.8km Southwest)
• Philosopher's Path (0.1km West)
• Honen-in Temple (0.4km Northwest)
• Kurodani Temple (0.7km Northwest)