World Heritage Site Ginkaku-ji: History, Must-See Spots, and How to Get There

Ginkaku-ji is one of Kyoto’s iconic sites, retaining the venerable history and legacy of Ashikaga Yoshimasa. With its rich culture and aesthetic, Ginkaku-ji offers a profound experience of Japan’s traditions and elegant ambiance. The architecture and gardens, which reflect Ashikaga Yoshimasa’s reclusive lifestyle and cultural tastes, captivate visitors.

This article introduces the charm of the World Heritage site Ginkaku-ji, its highlights, and how to get there. If you are considering a visit to Ginkaku-ji, please use the information provided here to enhance your trip.

Ginkaku-ji, formally known as Jishō-ji, is one of Kyoto’s renowned landmarks. The site where Ginkaku-ji stands today once housed a temple called Jōdo-ji. However, during the Ōnin War in the era of the 8th Shogun Ashikaga Yoshimasa of the Muromachi Shogunate, the temple was burned down.

After the Ōnin War ended, Ashikaga Yoshimasa retired from his position as Shogun and built the Higashiyama-dono (Higashiyama Palace) on the site of Jōdo-ji. In his later years, Yoshimasa led a refined and reclusive life at the Higashiyama-dono, indulging in tea ceremonies and calligraphy. After his death, Higashiyama-dono was converted into a temple, which became Ginkaku-ji.

Ginkaku-ji is a temple that strongly reflects Ashikaga Yoshimasa’s high aesthetic sense. Its solemn appearance attracts many tourists. The vivid moss and meticulously arranged white sand that create a mystical atmosphere are also notable features.

Despite its name, Ginkaku-ji does not use silver in its construction.

Various theories explain why the exterior is not silver. One popular theory suggests that the name was chosen to contrast with Kinkaku-ji, the Golden Pavilion. Kinkaku-ji is the centerpiece of the Kitayama culture, while Ginkaku-ji is central to the Higashiyama culture, making it likely that the name was derived in this contrasting manner.

Other theories include that silver leafing was halted due to Yoshimasa’s death or financial difficulties. However, the true reason remains unclear.

Ginkaku-ji is a temple that exudes the unique simplicity and profundity of Japanese culture. Visiting Ginkaku-ji allows you to fully appreciate Japan’s refined aesthetic. Here are the must-see spots at Ginkaku-ji. Be sure to refer to these when you visit.

Kannon Hall is a symbolic structure designated as a National Treasure. It is also known as Ginkaku. Modeled after the Shariden at Kinkaku-ji, it is a two-story building.

The lower level, built in the shoin-zukuri style, was used as a residence. The upper level, Chōonkaku, houses a statue of Kannon Bosatsu (Avalokiteshvara).

The exterior walls of Kannon Hall are coated with black lacquer.

Tōgūdō is another National Treasure. Initially used as a study, it later became a tea room. It is considered the prototype of modern tea rooms, highlighting Ginkaku-ji’s significant influence.

Dating back to the early construction of Higashiyama-dono, Tōgūdō is a historically rich building. It has four rooms, including one housing a Buddha statue. During spring and autumn, there are special times when its interior is open for viewing by the public.

Ginshadan and Kōgetsudai are sand formations in the garden of Ginkaku-ji. Ginshadan is crafted with Shirakawa sand shaped into wave-like patterns. It is said to brighten Ginkaku-ji by reflecting moonlight.

Kōgetsudai, a large sand mound next to Ginshadan, resembles Mount Fuji and is about 1.8 meters high. It is believed to be designed for viewing the moon while seated on top. The garden featuring these unique sand formations is a highlight of Ginkaku-ji.

Kinkyochi Pond is part of a stroll garden located on the lower level. Stroll gardens are designed to be viewed while walking around the pond. In 1952, it was designated as a Special Historic Site and a Special Place of Scenic Beauty.Viewing it alongside the main hall, Tōgūdō, Ginshadan, and Kōgetsudai enhances the beauty of the scenery.

The garden is centered around Kinkyochi Pond, emphasizing its importance. Standing on the opposite shore, you can enjoy the majesty of Ginkaku reflected in the pond.

The moss garden, where moss grows abundantly, is another highlight of Ginkaku-ji. Known for its beautiful moss, the garden offers a vibrant and traditional Japanese aesthetic. Ashikaga Yoshimasa frequently visited the “Moss Temple” (Saiho-ji) to study its garden and used it as a model for creating Higashiyama-dono.

Yoshimasa’s desire to show his mother the Saiho-ji garden, which women were forbidden to enter, led to the creation of the moss garden at Ginkaku-ji. Today, various types of moss thrive at Ginkaku-ji, with mosses carefully judged and sorted as suitable or unsuitable to Ginkaku-ji on display. Viewing the moss garden reveals the passion for moss shared by Yoshimasa and those who maintain Ginkaku-ji.

The observation deck, located at the back of Ginkaku-ji, is a hidden gem. Situated away from the main structures, it is a serene spot even during busy periods. From the observation deck, you can enjoy a panoramic view of Ginkaku-ji’s various buildings and gardens.

On clear days, you can also see the entire cityscape of Kyoto. The scenery changes with the seasons, offering a fresh experience each visit.

As you walk up the stairs to the observation deck, you can also enjoy views of the moss garden and vibrant trees. Near the observation deck is a well called “Ocha-no-I”, from which Ashikaga Yoshimasa drew water for tea. Water continues to spring from the well today, and it is used for tea ceremonies.

The nearest station to Ginkaku-ji is Demachiyanagi Station on the Keihan Electric Railway. It is about 2 km from Demachiyanagi Station to Ginkaku-ji, taking about 30 minutes on foot. For those who prefer not to walk or want to conserve energy, taking a taxi is recommended. Kyoto, being a popular tourist city, has many taxis available.

The most convenient way to reach Ginkaku-ji is by bus. Take Kyoto City Bus No. 5 or 17 and get off at the Ginkakuji-michi stop. It’s a direct route with no transfers.

The admission fee for Ginkaku-ji is 500 yen for high school students and older, and 300 yen for elementary and middle school students.

From March 1st to November 30th, it is open from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM. From December 1st to the end of February, the hours change to 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM, so be sure to check the timing.

When visiting Ginkaku-ji, it is recommended to explore nearby sightseeing spots as well.

・Kinkaku-ji

Kinkaku-ji, the Golden Pavilion, is another famous temple often visited together with Ginkaku-ji. The luxurious golden appearance of Kinkaku-ji leaves a lasting impression.

Kinkaku-ji is about 7 km from Ginkaku-ji, taking about 1.5 hours on foot. Taking a bus is recommended for this trip.

・Philosopher’s Path

The Philosopher’s Path is a popular walking trail about 800 meters, or 10 minutes on foot, from Ginkaku-ji. It is so-named because the philosopher Nishida Kitaro walked this path every morning while pondering various things.

・Sanzen-in Temple

Sanzen-in is located about 13.8 km from Ginkaku-ji. This temple is known for its many statues of Jizo in different poses.

Ginkaku-ji, associated with Ashikaga Yoshimasa, is a famous tourist attraction in Kyoto, captivating visitors with its historic architecture and elegant gardens. Ginkaku-ji’s many highlights include Kannon Hall, the moss garden, and the observation deck.

This article also provides detailed information on how to access Ginkaku-ji. Be sure to visit the surrounding sightseeing spots to fully immerse yourself in the charm of Kyoto. Use the information in this article as a reference to experience Japan’s tradition and aesthetic at Ginkaku-ji.

*This article is based on information available as of May 2024.