Ginkaku-ji
This temple was built by Ashikaga Yoshimasa, the eighth shogun of the Muromachi Shogunate, as a villa called "Higashiyama-den". Along with Kinkakuji Temple, this temple is a pagoda temple outside of Shokokuji Temple (i.e., a hermitage built in a different location from the main temple after his retirement). After Yoshimasa's death, the temple was named Jishoji after his Buddhist name.
Once you enter Ginkaku-ji, the whole area feels quiet and peaceful, creating a striking contrast with Kyoto's bustling streets. The gardens are meticulously maintained, and the white sand garden and greenery complement each other, giving it the distinctive beauty of a Japanese garden. As you slowly walk along the path, you can also look out over the entire temple grounds, which feels very relaxing.










