The Silver Pavilion and its garden.
Walk the garden circuit around the pavilion, sand garden and hillside viewpoints. The Silver Pavilion is not covered in silver.
The story behind this place
Ashikaga Yoshimasa, a 15th-century shogun or military ruler, created this retreat after the model of his grandfather’s Golden Pavilion. Ginkakuji is known as the Silver Pavilion, but it is not covered in silver. Its restrained appearance belongs to a different aesthetic tradition.
Good to know
- Check the official opening calendar and last admission before travelling.
- Allow extra time for crowds, station walks and transport connections.
- Respect worshippers and follow posted photography rules.
Check the official visitor information ↗ before travelling.




