Among the many temples to visit in Kyoto, people seem to prefer talking about Kinkakuji, instead of 银阁寺 Ginkakuji. Less flashy, it's also very interesting in my opinion. Located in Higashiyama (northeast of the city), it's easily accessible from the Philosopher's Path.
Built during the fifteenth century, it's a Buddhist temple whose name is translated as 'silver pavillion'. Even though, unlike the Golden Pavilion, the Ginkakuji has never been covered with silver leaves. It's also known under the official name of Jishoji.
Ginkakuji revolves around a gorgeous and minimalist dry garden, known as 'sea of silver sand', which puts the Zen in the center. Going up the mountain side, from the small bamboo forest that reveals a Japanese moss garden, there's a great view of the north of Kyoto.
Ginkakuji is a visit I definitely recommend if you travel in Kyoto (there's a ¥500 fee to enter), and take the opportunity to also visit the Philosopher's Path.
Information
How to get to Ginkaku-ji
By bus -- From Kyoto station, bus #5, 17 or 100 (40 minutes - ¥230 (~US$ 2.10))
Location unreachable with the JR Pass
Get there with a rental car
Admission
¥500 (~US$ 4.60)
Get your Japanese Yens free of charge
Opening hours
From March to November: from 8:30am to 5pm
From December to February: 9am to 4:30pm
In Japanese
銀閣寺
Other name(s)
Shokoku-ji
Jisho-ji
Weather in Kyoto
6 / 9°C
4 / 9°C
Connexion internet
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Related topics
Resources
Official website (in Japanese)