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.
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
35.026979 135.798264 💡 Tip: "View Location" shows the temple on the map. "Get Directions" navigates from your current position.
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).
Contact & Info
2 Ginkakuji-cho, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto, 606-8402
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Nearby Temples & Shrines
These sacred sites are closest to Ginkaku-ji (Silver Pavilion) and easy to combine in a single visit.
Honen-in Temple
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Free admission (donations accepted) · 30-45 minutes
Philosopher's Path
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Free · 30-45 minutes walking only, 1.5-2 hours with stops
Anraku-ji Temple
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500 yen (when open) · 20-30 minutes
Reikan-ji Temple
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Yoshida Shrine
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