Ginkakuji Temple in Kyoto: Best Things to Do Around the Silver Pavilion in the Higashiyama Area

Get to know Ginkakuji Temple

When speaking of Kyoto's World Heritage Sites, Kinkakuji Temple and Ginkakuji Temple take center stage. Kinkakuji Temple translates literally to "Golden Pavilion," while Ginkakuji Temple translates to "Silver Pavilion."

Delve into the history of Ginkakuji Temple

Situated in Kyoto's Higashiyama area, Ginkakuji Temple was built in 1482 as a retirement villa by shogun (military leader) Ashikaga Yoshimasa. Its structure was modeled after the golden Kinkakuij Temple, which was built by his grandfather, Ashikaga Yoshimitsu.

The villa was converted into a Zen temple after Yoshimasa's death, and underwent several restorations during the Edo period (1603-1868.)

Ginkakuji was built during wartime, and construction was halted due to financial constraints. Despite Yoshimasa's initial plan to embellish the structure with silver foil, he passed away without completing the project, and the current look of Ginkakuji showcases a modest and unfinished quality that embodies the essence of wabi-sabi (aesthetic sense in Japanese art highlighting quiet simplicity and subdued refinement.)

Appreciate Ginkakuji's unique architectural style

Higashiyama Culture emerged in the Muromachi period (1336-1573,) and signified a cultural shift characterized by innovations in architecture, visual arts, and theater.

In contrast to the lavish Kitayama Culture, Higashiyama Culture embraces simpler wabi-sabi aesthetics inspired by Zen Buddhism. Ginkakuji Temple exemplifies this cultural transition with its residential shoin-zukuri architectural style, a distinctive feature of Higashiyama Culture.

Notably, the temple's first floor is built in shoin-zukuri style on the first floor, while its second floor, which houses a Buddhist Kannon statue, is built in Zen-style.

View the "Sea of Silver Sand" dry garden

Next to Ginkakuji Temple is a dry sand garden called the "Sea of Silver Sand," home to a sand cone named the "Moon Viewing Platform." The purpose of the sand garden, whether for moon viewing or reflecting moonlight onto the main hall, remains uncertain.

The garden uses Shirakawa sand from Kyoto, which is known for its higher light reflectivity. The sand reflects the moonlight onto the building, making Ginkakuji appear as if gleaming in silver at night.

Best time of day to visit Ginkakuji

If you're planning to visit Ginkakuji Temple, it's best to go during the daytime when it's bright outside.

However, if you have the opportunity, visit at night to experience a different ambience. During that time, Ginkakuji Temple is only lit up selectively with dim lights, which accentuates the temple's mysterious beauty.

Half-day itinerary around Ginkakuji

If you're traveling to Ginkakuji Temple in spring or fall, be sure to take in views of maple leaves and cherry blossoms in the Higashiyama area. Check out our itinerary for a day of sightseeing and exploration around the temple.

Recommended route:

Kyoto Municipal Subway Keage Station → 9-min walk → Nanzenji Temple → 10-min walk → Eikando Temple → 6-min walk → Philosopher's Path → 34-min walk → Ginkakuji Temple

Nanzenji Temple
As one of the most prominent Rinzai Zen temples in Japan, Nanzenji stands as a historic and serene destination, renowned for breathtaking views of golden maple leaves in autumn.

Eikando Temple
Also known as Zenrinji Temple, Eikando Temple is Kyoto's premier maple leaves viewing spot. Its serene ambiance and captivating night lighting events make it popular for nature lovers and Zen seekers alike.

Philosopher's Path
The Philosopher's Path is a picturesque trail alongside a canal, famed for its cherry blossoms in spring. Named after the philosopher who found inspiration here, the path offers a serene and contemplative stroll.

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Must-visit attractions around Ginkakuji Temple

Keep reading for the best scenic spots to visit near Ginkakuji and the surrounding Higashiyama area.

Take a peaceful stroll along the Philosopher's Path

The Philosopher's Path, which takes about 30 minutes to walk, is lined with charming cafes and shops, providing opportunities to take a break anytime during your stroll.

The path is named after philosophy professor Kitaro Nishida (1870-1945) of Kyoto University, who often contemplated while strolling here.

The path runs alongside the scenic Lake Biwa Canal, providing breathtaking views of cherry blossoms in spring and vibrant autumn leaves in the fall.

Philosopher's Path
Address: Sakyo-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto Prefecture
Access: From JR Kyoto Station, take the city bus No.5 until Nanzenji Eikando-michi bus stop, walk for 3 mins; or take the city bus No. 100 until Ginkakuji-mae bus stop, walk for 5 mins

Buy sacred leaf amulets at Kumano Nyakuoji Shrine

Kumano Nyakuoji Shrine is situated in a secluded area near the southern end of the Philosopher's Path.

Crafted from the leaves of the shrine’s sacred nagi tree, the amulets sold at the shrine are said to be able to ward off hardships and bad luck.

Kumano Nyakuoji Shrine
Address: 2 Nyakuoji-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto Prefecture
Access: From Kyoto Station, take the city bus No.5 until Nanzenji Eikando-michi bus stop and walk 5 mins
Official website: https://nyakuouji-jinja.amebaownd.com/ (in Japanese only)

Visit the rabbit deity at Okazaki Shrine

Okazaki Shrine, also known as the "Rabbit Shrine," is a sacred site for those seeking blessings for safe childbirth and a happy marriage.

What sets it apart from other shrines is its rabbit deity, reflected in numerous stone statues and protective amulets. Its adorable ambiance makes it a popular spot for tourists, drawing many to take photos with the charming rabbit-themed decorations.

Okazaki Shrine
Address: 51 Okazaki Higashi Tennocho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture
Access: Short walk from Okazaki Jinja-mae bus stop
Official website: https://okazakijinja.jp/ (in Japanese only)

Ginkakuji Temple: Details and access information

Here are some ways to get to Ginkakuji Temple from Kyoto Station and Keihan Demachiyanagi Station.

From Kyoto Station

JR Kyoto Station → (Bus No. 5 or 17) → Ginkakuji-mae bus stop (Total time: 35 mins)

From Demachiyanagi Station

Keihan Demachiyanagi Station (Bus No. 17) → Ginkakuji-michi bus stop (Total time: 12 mins)

Ginkakuji Temple
Address: 2 Ginkakuji-cho, Sakyo-ku Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture
Official website: https://www.shokoku-ji.jp/en/ginkakuji/

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Discover Ginkakuji Temple and its surroundings

Ginkakuji Temple and its surroundings offer a captivating blend of historical richness and natural beauty, creating an ideal destination for sightseeing in Kyoto. Exploring Ginkakuji Temple and its vicinity unveils a variety of experiences, where history and nature seamlessly intertwine.

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*The information in this article, such as prices and business hours, was accurate at the time of publication but is subject to change. Please refer to the official website(s) for the latest information.

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