Ginkakuji (Jishoji Temple)

Map

History & Origins

Ashikaga Yoshimasa built the villa 'Higashiyama-dono' in Higashiyama, as if to escape the ravages of the Onin War. After Yoshimasa's death it became a Zen temple according to his will and was named 'Jishoji'. Here Yoshimasa encouraged the shoin-zukuri style, the tea ceremony, flower arrangement and Noh, and nurtured Higashiyama culture.

Highlights

The National Treasure Kannon-den (Ginkaku) is a two-story wooden pavilion that shows a blend of Zen Buddhist hall style and Japanese-style architecture. The Togudo, also a National Treasure, retains the 'Dojinsai', regarded as a source of the tea room. The garden has the 'Ginshanada', white sand raked into a wave pattern, and the cone-shaped 'Kogetsudai', creating a distinctive landscape.

Visitor Guide

Take the City Bus to Ginkakuji-michi and walk about 10 minutes. Visiting hours are 8:30-17:00 in summer (March-November) and 9:00-16:30 in winter (December-February). Admission is 500 yen for adults and high school students and 300 yen for elementary and junior high school students. Combining it with a walk along the Philosopher's Path is recommended. Allow about 45-60 minutes.

Best Season

May, with fresh greenery, and November, with autumn foliage, show the garden at its most beautiful. On early winter mornings, Ginkaku covered in snow and the white sand of the Ginshanada present a dreamlike scene.

Blessings

Annual Events

• January

  Shinbutsu Reijo Junpai Sanpai (Shinto-Buddhist Sacred Sites Pilgrimage)

  As Temple No. 109 of the Shinto-Buddhist Sacred Sites Pilgrimage, pilgrims visit throughout the year.

• November

  Autumn Special Opening

  The interiors of buildings normally closed to the public may be specially opened, and can be enjoyed together with the autumn foliage.

Travel Plan

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