Kyoto - November 2009
Day four.
Like his grandfather Yoshimitsu, who had the Golden Pavilion built as a retirement home, Yoshimasa had the Silver Pavilion (Ginkakuji Temple) built as a place to retire after being the Shogun. This building was originally planned to be covered in silver foil, hence the name Silver Pavilion. Construction began in 1482.
Also like his grandfather, Yoshimasa had the home converted into a Buddhist temple after his death.
The Silver Pavilion was under renovation when we visited. You can see some of the construction material on the sides of the building.This is the rock garden known as the Sea of Silver Sand (Ginshadan).
kyotojapanginkakuji templesilver pavilionrock gardensea of silver sandginshadan
This is the Moon Viewing Platform (Kogetsudai).
kyotojapanginkakuji templesilver pavilionkogetsudaimoon viewing platformsea of silver sandginshadan
This photo shows the rock garden, the main hall, and Tougudo.
kyotojapanginkakuji templesilver pavilionrock gardensea of silver sandginshadantogudotougudo
Another view of the rock garden.
kyotojapanginkakuji templesilver pavilionrock gardensea of silver sandginshadan