- Address: 2 Ginkakujicho, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture 606-8402, Japan
- Opening: 1490
- Phone: +81 75-771-5725
- Opening hours: 08: 30-17: 00
- Cost of visiting: $ 4.5
In the Japanese city of Kyoto in the Higashiyama area, the Silver Pavilion, or Ginkaku-ji Temple, is located. Unlike its fellow - the Golden Pavilion - it is not covered with precious metal, but it does not make it less beautiful and unique.
History of the Silver Pavilion
Initially, in this part of the Higashima district was the medieval monastery of Dzedo-ji. At that time, the eighth Shogun of Ashikaga Yoshimasi, who was the grandson of the famous Ashikaga Yoshimitsu, ruled the country. Inspired by the Golden Pavilion, built by his grandfather, he decided to erect a new residence in the place of the old monastery in Kyoto - the Silver Pavilion.
Construction lasted from 1465 to 1485, after which the shogun moved to a new residence. In 1490, after the death of the ruler, the temple became the abode of the Zeniv sect Rinzai, whose custodian was appointed monk-scientist Muso Soseki.
Until the end of the XV century in the Silver Pavilion in Japan was several dozen buildings, from which now there are several authentic structures.
Architectural style of the Silver Pavilion
During the construction of this facility, the main elements of the Kitayam and Khigasiyam style were used. It is for certain unknown why one of the most famous temples in Japan began to be called the Silver Pavilion. Initially, Shikun Ashikaga Yoshimasi wanted to cover the outer walls with silver sheets, following the example of the Golden Pavilion. But either because of the Onin war of 1467, or because of insufficient funding, his idea was never implemented.
According to another version, the name of the Silver Ginkakuji pavilion is associated with the legend of the moonlight. During clear nights, moonlight reflects off the walls, covered with black lacquer, creating a soft silvery glow.
Local residents believe that at first the temple was covered with silver, but during the internecine wars the jewelry was stolen. In any case, the Silver Pavilion in Kyoto remained silver only on paper.
Structure of the temple complex Silver Pavilion
At present, on the territory of this Buddhist temple, there are three significant structures. Among them:
- The Eastern Temple, which once housed the chapel and images of the Buddha;
- The main temple, one of Japan's National Treasures;
- Arbor of joyful cleanliness.
And although the center of the complex is the Silver Ginkakuji Pavilion, there are many other objects worthy of attention of tourists. These include:
- "Sand Garden", created by the artist Soami in the XVI century;
- "The sea of silver sand," outwardly resembling a sea with waves;
- composition "Moon Hill", having a conical shape;
- Hall "Hondo", the doors of which are decorated with various drawings;
- building "Togudo" with an interesting room, the size of which is 4.5 mat matami.
From the "Sand Garden" there is a pedestrian path leading to the forest, or rather to a place called a shady garden of moss. Here there are clean ponds, among which small islands look out. At the end of the pedestrian path is a kind of observation platform, from where you can see the Silver Pavilion itself, and the whole city of Kyoto.
How to get to the temple?
In order to appreciate the beauty of this ancient building, you need to proceed to the south-eastern part of the city. The Ginkakuji silver pavilion is located 6 km from Lake Biwa . Next to it lie the motorways 30 and 101. You can also reach it by metro. The railway station Omi-Jingu-Mae Station is 5 km away, and Mototanaka Station bus stop is 1.5 km away, which can be reached via routes Nos. 5, 17, 100.