Ginkaku-ji Temple is not covered in glistening silver unlike the Kinkaku-ji temple which is covered in gold. It was built by the grandson of Ashikaga Yoshimitsu, who built the Kinkaku-ji Temple, for his retirement.
Although it doesn't have the grandeur of the Golden Pavilion, it offers stunning moss and dry sand gardens.
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| The entrance is a 50-meter long fence on both sides made of camellias |
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| Kannon-den (Ginkaku). |
The Kannon Hall is a two-story building: the first level built in Japanese architecture style and the second level in Chinese temple style. On top of the roof is a bronze phoenix believed to be guarding the temple dedicated to Kannonbosatsu, the Goddess of Mercy.
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| Kogetsudai "Moon Viewing Platform". |
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| The vast dry sand garden with a massive sand cone, Kogetsudai. |
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| The Main Hall beside the garden. |
The main hall, which is close to the public, houses paintings that dates back to 18th century.
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| Togu-do Hall. Oldest Shoin style building with one story Irimoya style. |
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| The moss garden, which features ponds and bridges and small islands, is a feast for the eyes. |
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| Moss garden. |
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| View from the hill behind the buildings. |
The temple is a World Cultural Heritage Site.
How to get there:
From Kawaramachi station of the Hankyu line, take City bus 5 or 17 and get off at Ginkakuji-michi.
From Kyoto station, take City bus 5, 17 or 100.
Opening Hours and fees:
Opening Hours: 08:30H to 17:00H (09:00H to 16:30H from December to February)
No closing days
Fees: 500 yen
Website: Ginkaku-ji Temple (Japanese website)
Path of Philosophy
Consequently, from Ginkaku-ji temple you could walk to the Path of Philosophy which is one of the best cherry blossom spots during cherry blossom season. The path starts from the Ginkaku-ji temple extending to Nanzen-ji.
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| No cherry blossom yet. :( |
My photos are quite dull due to cloudy weather that day. Sun randomly goes out and when I change my camera settings the clouds cover the sun again. Kind of frustrating actually.
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