Ginkaku-ji Temple, also known as the Silver Pavilion, is one of Kyoto’s most refined and understated Zen temples. Built in the late 15th century as a retirement villa for Shogun Ashikaga Yoshimasa, it later became a temple of the Rinzai Zen sect.

Despite its name, the pavilion was never covered in silver. Instead, it is admired for its simple wooden exterior and elegant proportions, which embody the aesthetic of wabi-sabi, a philosophy that finds beauty in simplicity and imperfection.

The temple grounds are beautifully designed, beginning with a striking sand garden featuring a carefully shaped cone known as the “Moon Viewing Platform”. Beyond this lies a moss garden with winding paths, ponds and carefully framed views that encourage slow and thoughtful exploration.

A gentle hillside path leads to a small viewpoint overlooking Kyoto, offering a wider perspective after the intimacy of the garden below.

Ginkaku-ji is located at the northern end of the Philosopher’s Path, making it a natural starting or finishing point for a scenic walk along the canal lined with cherry trees.

Expert Tips

Allow around one to one and a half hours to explore the gardens at a relaxed pace. The path includes some gentle inclines, so comfortable shoes are recommended.

Visit early in the morning to enjoy a quieter atmosphere. The temple is especially attractive in autumn when the surrounding foliage turns vibrant shades of red and gold.