User reviews of Ginkakuji
Moonbeams on the waves
There are four things about Ginkakuji that make it one of my favorite desintations in Kyoto. First is the wall of camelias that frame the entrance. Note how the sense of length and space is increased by the long horizontal path. Next, the magnificent 5 needle Pine Tree just inside the entrance. The delicate blue hue of this pine and the intricate shape always delight me. Then the raked sand, symbolizing waves genlty rolling up a beach in the moonlight. Squint your eyes and imagine a full moon shining on this vista. The moss covered hillside is lovely, especially after a rain and the maples are magnificent in autumn. Walk slowly, there is a different view from every vantage.
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(Report Problem)Even better than Kinkakuji
A lot is made of the "golden pavillion" Kinkakuji, leaving Ginkakuji a footnote in the travel guide. It is a more subdued spot, but therefore, also a very peaceful and beautiful place. Generally, it's free of the hoardes of tourists and school daytrippers that crowd Kinkakuji, leaving you free to revel in the beautiful moss gardens. We went in midsummer--I'd recommend going a bit earlier than that if possible.
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(Report Problem)Like gardens? Welcome to heaven.
Ah, the Silver Pavillion. People go there for it alone, and then take the bus back. DON'T! Instead, follow the Road of Philosophy south, have a coffee, eat some cinnamon crackers (yatsu-hashi), enjoy the area around. The Silver Pavillion itself is worth it, ESPECIALLY in winter, during snow. The etherial view of artifical, symetric sand mixing with the bionic, moving background of trees and water is sure to whet your appetite for reflection. Don't forget, you can climb Daimonji Mt. from there and all the eccentric shops surrounding Kyoto University are not far away.
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(Report Problem)Sublime
This temple is a little more subdued than the highly touted Kinkakuji, but Ginkakuji is much better. The grounds of Ginkakuji include a very nice moss garden, and you can climb up the side of a hill and enjoy a nice view of Kyoto. The more subdued design of Ginkakuji reflects the true Japanese character in my opinion.
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(Report Problem)Aesthetically Momentous
This temple, known as the Silver Temple, is sometimes underrated by visitors, but is vital to the development of Japanese culture and aesthetics. For reasons why, read Donald Keene's book, *Yoshimasa and the Silver Pavilion: The Creation of the Soul of Japan* (Columbia University Press, 2003).
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