The beautiful Ginkaku-ji Temple is a Zen temple in Kyoto, boasting beautiful, lush green gardens and a magnificent pavilion.

Originally built as a retirement villa for a 15th-century shogun, Ashikaga Yoshimasa, Ginkakuji is one of Japan's most classic Zen temples and a prime example of the wabi-sabi aesthetic of beauty in imperfection.

Before it became a temple, the shogun's villa was the centre of Higashiyama culture, from which flowered the tea ceremony, flower arrangement, poetry, and Noh theater. Today, Ginkakuji is one of the best-known temples in Kyoto.

The temple which is also called the Temple of the Silver Pavilion shares a striking resemblance to the Kinkaku-ji Temple known as Temple of the Golden Pavilion.

The lovely gardens, home to moss gardens, ponds and bridges are the highlight of the temple attracting visitors and locals alike. There is a lovely view over the gardens from a view point reached by a winding path.

A first sight of the Silver Pavilion can be enjoyed shorty after entering the grounds. Formally named Kannonden (Kannon Hall), the pavilion's two stories are constructed in two different architecture styles and contain a statue of Kannon, the Buddhist goddess of mercy. However, the interior of the building is not open to the public.

Despite its name, the Silver Pavilion was never covered in silver. Instead, it is believed that the name arose as a nickname more than a century after the building's construction to contrast it with the Golden Pavilion. Alternatively, it is explained that moon light reflecting on the building's dark exterior (which used to be covered in black lacquer) gave it a silvery appearance.

The pavilion is one of only two buildings on the grounds of Ginkakuji which have survived intact the many fires and earthquakes of the past centuries, although it has been undergoing periodical renovation works to keep it well preserved.

Getting There:  Ginkakuji can be accessed by direct bus number 5 or 17 from Kyoto Station in about 35-40 minutes and for 230 yen one way to Ginkakuji-michi bus stop. It's a 10-minute walk from there.

Alternatively, you can reach Ginkakuji by foot along the Philosopher's Path from Nanzenji in about 30-45 minutes.

Admission Fee: is 500 Yen per person.

Opening Hours: 08:30 am to 5 pm.

Importance Rating: 9 - this is one of Kyoto's top sights.

Busyness Rating: 9 - it gets very busy.

Top Tips: Find peace in the immaculate Zen garden. Enjoy other on-site architectural treasures such as the teahouses.