Ginkaku-ji (Silver Pavilion)

銀閣寺

UNESCO World Heritage Zen temple built 1482 by Shogun Ashikaga Yoshimasa (grandson of Golden Pavilion builder). Never actually covered in silver - name refers to aesthetic simplicity. Features exquisite sand gardens and moss gardens. Starting point of 2km Philosopher's Path along cherry-tree-lined canal.

Visit: 1-1.5 hours (add 1 hour for Philosopher's Path to Nanzen-ji)

Entrance: 500 yen adults, 300 yen junior high/elementary students

Hours: 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM (Mar-Nov), 9:00 AM - 4:30 PM (Dec-Feb)

Highlights & Must-See Features

Silver Pavilion (Kannon Hall) - elegant simplicity
Ginsadan (Sea of Silver Sand) - raked white gravel garden
Kogetsudai (Moon Viewing Platform) - conical sand mound
Beautiful moss garden with walking paths
Philosopher's Path trailhead (2km cherry-lined canal)
Views of Kyoto from upper garden

📍 How to Get There

Nearest Station

Ginkakuji-michi or Ginkakuji-mae Bus Stop

Step-by-Step Directions

1 From Kyoto Station: Bus 5 or 17 to Ginkakuji-michi (35 minutes)
2 From Keihan Demachiyanagi Station: Bus 17 or 203 (15 minutes)
3 From bus stop: 10 minute walk through charming approach street with shops
4 Perfect starting point for 2km Philosopher's Path walk to Nanzen-ji (30-40 min)

Location & Maps

🗺️ Interactive map - zoom and pan to explore

Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors

Latitude: 35.026979

Longitude: 135.798264

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Best Time to Visit

Early morning 8:30 AM for peaceful atmosphere. Spectacular autumn colors (mid-Nov) with moss and maples. Fresh spring green moss (May). Cherry blossoms along Philosopher's Path (early April).