Ginkakuji Temple in Kyoto: Highlights and Personal Photos with Insights into Its Unique and Tranquil Zen Garden

2023-12-112024-09-19

Ginkakuji Temple, registered as a World Heritage Site, is one of Kyoto’s most popular and cherished tourist spots. Although Ginkakuji Temple was modeled after the Golden Pavilion, it is known for its serene and understated beauty, in contrast to the dazzling Golden Pavilion. The meticulously arranged white sand and lush green moss in its garden, along with the calm atmosphere of the Zen temple, create a strikingly beautiful and peaceful environment. Ginkakuji Temple offers a serene retreat and is a quintessential example of Kyoto’s charm.

This article will share the highlights of Ginkakuji Temple, along with some personal photographs.

Getting To Ginkakuji Temple From Kyoto Station

Ginkaku-ji Temple’s official name is Higashiyama Jisho-ji Temple. Even on Google Maps, when you search for “Ginkakuji”, “Higashiyama-Jisho-ji” is displayed. Don’t worry, this is Ginkakuji Temple. The most convenient way to reach Ginkakuji Temple from Kyoto Station is by bus, as there is no nearby train station.

STEP

From the A2 bus stop at Kyoto Station’s bus terminal, take the city bus number 17.

The bus terminal is located right outside the central exit of Kyoto Station.

Look for the sign marked “A1” or “A2”.

STEP

Disembark at Ginkakuji-michi bus stop.

It takes about 35 minutes from Kyoto Station.

STEP

From the bus stop, walk about 600m, which takes about 8 minutes.

The photo above is the entrance to Ginkakuji Temple. There were still some autumn leaves left at the entrance, giving it a nice atmosphere.

Highlights of Ginkakuji Temple

As you enter and walk a bit further, you’ll encounter the iconic Main Hall of Ginkakuji Temple (Kannon-den). Next to the Main Hall, you’ll find “Ginshadan,” a sand area arranged to resemble the ripples of a river, and “Kogetsudai,” a sand mound shaped like Mount Fuji.

These features were created to appreciate the moon. Ginshadan reflects the moonlight, while Kogetsudai was designed for moon viewing. I found these unique and unparalleled garden features to be one of Ginkakuji Temple’s major highlights.

The Main Hall of Ginkakuji Temple (Kannon-den) is considered one of the “Three Pavilions of Kyoto,” along with Kinkakuji Temple and Nishi Honganji Temple. The pavilion is two stories high. The first floor was constructed in the style of a samurai residence from the 14th to 16th centuries and was originally used as a residence. The second floor is a Buddhist hall where Kannon Bodhisattva is enshrined. At the top of the pavilion’s roof, you’ll find a “phoenix” that is said to protect the Kannon Bodhisattva.

In front of the Main Hall of Ginkakuji Temple (Kannon-den) is a tranquil garden that I found incredibly calming. Similar to Tenryuji Temple, I really enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of Zen temple gardens..

At the back of the garden is a building known as Togudo Hall. Originally used as a study, it later became a tea room. It is considered a prototype of modern tea rooms and is designated as a national treasure.

Continuing along the path, you’ll come across a spring water well. The water from this spring was once used by the shogun to make tea. This stream connects to a pond in the Ginkakuji Temple garden. The high-quality spring water still flows and is used in modern tea ceremonies. The surrounding area is incredibly quiet and peaceful.

Further along the path, you’ll reach the “Observation Deck.” From here, you can enjoy panoramic views of the Main Hall, the garden, and the cityscape of Kyoto. The view from this spot is breathtaking, and the Main Hall looks beautiful even from a distance.