What other travelers are saying about Ginkaku-ji (Silver Pavilion)
It is definitely worth a visit and great to walk through the garden to soak in the sights. As it is a quite popular destination you may find that visiting quite early or quite late give you a more relaxed experience. An added benefit can be the different lighting, especially just before closing for the day. The walking path is fenced and clearly marked, so you can just follow the full path or choose a shorter path if so desired. The philosophers path is nearby, which can be combined into a single trip.
My wife and I thought this temple area to be among the most beautiful we had seen. The silver temple, though not as spectacular or as photographed as much as the golden temple, is still beautiful. You have a great overview of the city along the path. The sand gardens are stunning.
Only 500 yen to enter with options for a private guided viewing of original painted doors for 2,000 yen. The garden is immaculate. Read about the history and savor the views from the look out point. Go early or later in the day to avoid massive crowding.
Ginkakuji Temple, or the Silver Pavilion, is a beautiful example of Japanese wabi-sabi aesthetics. The temple’s understated elegance and the surrounding gardens make it a truly peaceful place to visit. The sand garden, with its meticulously crafted cone and raked patterns, is especially unique and serene.
A stroll along the moss-covered paths reveals lovely views of Kyoto and perfectly framed scenery at every turn. Visiting in autumn, with vibrant foliage, or in spring, with blooming flowers, adds an extra layer of beauty. A must-visit for anyone looking to experience the refined simplicity of Japanese Zen gardens.
Beautiful temple and garden grounds with bamboo, manicured paths, streams, etc. 500 yen for entrance. It's a little crowded but not as bad as many other tourist spots around Kyoto. Well worth seeing. A little ways away from the very busy Gion district but only 20 minutes or so by bus.
