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Ginkaku-ji

銀閣寺   Click to listen highlighted text! 銀閣寺

(ginkaku-ji)

Ginkaku-ji, also known as the Silver Pavilion, is a UNESCO World Heritage site located in Kyoto, Japan. The temple was originally built in 1482 as a retirement villa for Shogun Ashikaga Yoshimasa. The temple complex, with its beautiful gardens and stunning architecture, has become one of the most popular tourist destinations in Kyoto.

The main building of Ginkaku-ji is a two-story structure built in the traditional Japanese style. The upper floor is covered with silver leaf, giving the temple its nickname, the Silver Pavilion. The building is surrounded by beautifully landscaped gardens, which are carefully designed to complement the architecture of the temple.

One of the most popular features of Ginkaku-ji is its moss garden. The garden is made up of a variety of moss species, carefully arranged to create a serene and peaceful atmosphere. The garden is said to have been designed by the famous landscape architect, Soseki Muso, who was a monk of the Rinzai school of Zen Buddhism.

The temple grounds also feature a number of other gardens, including a sand garden, a water garden, and a tea garden. These gardens are all meticulously maintained and offer visitors a chance to experience the beauty of traditional Japanese landscaping.

In addition to its beautiful gardens, Ginkaku-ji is also known for its art and cultural exhibits. The temple has a number of rooms filled with artwork, including calligraphy, paintings, and sculptures. These exhibits offer visitors a chance to learn more about Japanese culture and history.

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