Overview
Ginkaku-ji, also known as the Silver Pavilion, is a Zen temple in Kyoto, Japan. It is renowned for its beautiful gardens and historic significance, reflecting the aesthetics of the Higashiyama culture of Medieval Japan.
Ginkaku-ji is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a prime example of traditional Japanese architecture and garden design.
Location
Address
2 Ginkakujicho, Sakyo, Kyoto
Neighborhood: Higashiyama
Coordinates
35.031700, 135.765700
Visiting Information
Opening Hours
Admission
Best Time to Visit
Overall Best Period
March-May, October-November
Best Time of Day
Early morning
fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Duration Recommendations
Seasonal Highlights
spring
mild to warm
- • cherry blossoms
- • flowers
summer
hot and humid
- • green gardens
- • rainy season
autumn
cool and pleasant
- • fall foliage
- • autumn colors
winter
cold
- • illuminations
- • holiday decorations
Know Before You Go
Essential Information
- Book ahead
- Bring ID
- Check weather
What to Bring
essential
recommended
seasonal
not allowed
Health & Safety
Physical Requirements: moderate
- • stairs
- • uneven paths
Medical facilities: first aid available
Payment Information
Accepted
cash, credit cards
Currency
JPY
Typical Costs
Dress Code
casual, comfortable shoes, modest clothing, walking shoes, inappropriate clothing, open-toed shoes
Booking Tips
- • 1-2 weeks
- • official website
- • 48 hours
- • available
Amenities
Digital Services
Mobile App
Kyoto Travel
Size: 50 MB
Features: Map, Audio guide, Tickets, Event information
Platforms: iOS, Android
WiFi Zones: Visitor center, Cafe
Charging Stations: Rest areas
How to Reach
From Airport
Nearest: Kansai International Airport
Distance: 110 km
Travel Time: 1.5 hours
From City Center
Distance: 3 km
Local Insights
Cultural Context
Why Locals Love It: Historic importance, beautiful gardens
Historical Significance: Built by shogun Ashikaga Yoshimasa, represents the Higashiyama culture
Insider Tips
- Best views from the garden
- Try the matcha ice cream at the cafe
- Visit early for a peaceful experience
Local Recommendations
- • Try matcha tea at the on-site cafe
- • Ask for guide Kenji
Language Help
Useful Phrases
Guide Languages: English, Japanese, Chinese
Photography Guide
Best Photo Spots
Main entrance
Best Time: Golden hour
Tips: Low angle for the pavilion
Result: Great shot of the Silver Pavilion
Garden of Silver Sand
Best Time: Late afternoon
Tips: Wide shots of the garden
Result: Beautiful garden views
Photography Rules
Nearby Attractions
Nanzen-ji Temple
Distance: 500m
Walking: 7 min
Type: Temple
Philosopher's Path
Distance: 1km
Walking: 15 min
Type: Scenic Walk
Higashiyama District
Distance: 1.5km
Walking: 20 min
Type: Historic District
Reviews
Based on 10,000 reviews
Recent Visitor Tips
- "Book online"
- "Visit early"
- "Great views"
- "Try the matcha ice cream"
Contact Information
Related Tours & Activities (1)
Quick Info
Available Tours
59
Rating
4.7 / 5.0
Reviews
10,000
Adult Entry
¥500