Detailed explanation of the history and overview of Kinkakuji Temple

 

　Table of Contents

1. Overview of Kinkaku-ji
2. History of Kinkaku-ji
3. Highlights of Kinkaku-ji
   

Introduction

Kinkaku-ji (Rokuon-ji) is a Zen Buddhist temple of the Rinzai sect located in Kita Ward, Kyoto City. It is one of Japan's most famous tourist attractions, captivating many visitors with its stunning architectural style and the harmony of its garden. Its historical significance and aesthetic appeal draw a large number of tourists throughout the year, making it a must-visit spot for anyone traveling to Japan.

In this article, we will provide a detailed introduction to Kinkaku-ji, including its overview, history, highlights, events, and festivals. To help you better appreciate the allure of Kinkaku-ji, each section will offer comprehensive information along with tips for your visit. Enjoy exploring the charm of Kinkaku-ji, a symbol of Japanese culture and a UNESCO World Heritage site.

1. Overview of Kinkaku-ji 

Kinkaku-ji (Rokuon-ji) is a Zen Buddhist temple of the Rinzai sect located in Kita Ward, Kyoto City. It is one of Japan's most renowned tourist destinations. The temple was established in 1397 by Ashikaga Yoshimitsu, the third shogun of the Muromachi Shogunate. Although its official name is "Rokuon-ji," it is commonly known as Kinkaku-ji due to the famous Golden Pavilion (Kinkaku) covered in gold leaf within its grounds.

The brilliant shine of the gold leaf and the harmony with the surrounding nature captivate visitors. The temple is surrounded by extensive gardens, featuring a strolling pond garden with various stones and plants, allowing visitors to enjoy the beauty of nature throughout the four seasons. Kinkaku-ji was registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1994, gaining international recognition.

This temple is also significant as a symbol of Japanese culture, frequently appearing in various literary and artistic works. Notably, Yukio Mishima's novel "The Temple of the Golden Pavilion" is set at this temple. Kinkaku-ji attracts many tourists year-round and is a must-visit spot when traveling to Japan.​

2. History of Kinkaku-ji 

　1.  Late Heian Period (1397) 

inkaku-ji was established by Ashikaga Yoshimitsu, the third shogun of the Muromachi Shogunate. Originally used as his residence, it was known as "Kitayama-dono." After Yoshimitsu's death, the residence was converted into a Zen temple and officially named "Rokuon-ji." The name "Kinkaku-ji" comes from the famous three-story pavilion covered in gold leaf, known as the Golden Pavilion (Kinkaku) .

　2.  Muromachi Period 

During this period, the Golden Pavilion (Kinkaku) was constructed. The pavilion symbolizes Ashikaga Yoshimitsu's luxurious lifestyle, with each floor designed in a different architectural style. The first floor, "Hōsui-in," is built in the Shinden style; the second floor, "Chō-on-dō," is in the Buke style; and the third floor, "Kukkyō-chō," is in the Zen style. This design reflects the cultural significance of the Kitayama Culture of the time.​

　3.  Sengoku Period (Ōnin War) 

The Ōnin War, which began in 1467, caused significant damage throughout Kyoto. Kinkaku-ji was no exception and suffered partial destruction. Despite the political turmoil, efforts to rebuild and restore Kinkaku-ji continued, preserving its beauty and dignity.

　4.  Post-war Reconstruction and Restoration, World Heritage Registration 

On July 2, 1950, Kinkaku-ji was destroyed by arson committed by a mentally ill young monk captivated by its beauty. The temple was faithfully reconstructed in 1955, although some details of the gold leaf application differed slightly from the original. In 1987, another restoration was undertaken, using thicker gold leaf to enhance the building's durability and restore its brilliance. Kinkaku-ji was registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1994, recognizing its historical and architectural significance.

　5.  Modern Kinkaku-ji 

Today, Kinkaku-ji is one of Kyoto's most iconic tourist destinations, attracting visitors from around the world. Its beauty varies with the seasons, offering different experiences with cherry blossoms in spring, lush greenery in summer, vibrant autumn leaves, and snowy landscapes in winter. The reflection of the Golden Pavilion in the pond, known as "Kyōko-chi," is particularly famous and has been depicted in numerous photographs and paintings.

The temple is surrounded by beautiful gardens, allowing visitors to enjoy traditional Japanese garden culture. Within the gardens, historical structures such as the tea house favored by Yoshimitsu and "Seppō-dō," where he spent his later years, can be found.

Kinkaku-ji also continues to serve as a place for Zen practice. Modern monks engage in daily training and prayers, providing spiritual solace and teachings to visitors. Beyond its role as a tourist attraction, Kinkaku-ji plays a vital role in preserving and conveying Japanese history and culture. Ongoing restoration and conservation efforts aim to ensure that its beauty and historical legacy are passed on to future generations.

3. Highlights of Kinkaku-ji 

Kinkaku-ji offers numerous attractions that blend history and beauty. Here are detailed descriptions of the main spots:

　■ Shariden (The Golden Pavilion) 

The Shariden, commonly known as "Kinkaku," is the most iconic building of Kinkaku-ji. This three-story structure features different architectural styles on each floor.

・First Floor: Hōsui-in

The first floor, called "Hōsui-in," is built in the Shinden style of the Heian period. It features characteristic windows known as shoji to let in natural light. Inside, statues of Ashikaga Yoshimitsu and Shakyamuni Buddha are enshrined, along with the Shaka Triad.

・Second Floor: Chō-on-dō

The second floor, known as "Chō-on-dō," adopts the Buke style, which is characteristic of samurai residences. It features sliding doors called mairado. Inside, statues of Kannon and the Four Heavenly Kings are enshrined, emphasizing the sturdy and simple beauty typical of warrior architecture.

・Third Floor: Kukkyō-chō

The third floor, called "Kukkyō-chō," is built in the Chinese Zen style. This floor houses sacred relics of Buddha. Atop the roof is a golden phoenix, symbolizing the entire structure.

・Overall Architecture and Gold Leaf

The entire pavilion is covered in pure gold leaf, captivating visitors with its brilliance. While gold leaf was used in the original structure, the 1955 reconstruction expanded its use, and in 1987, thicker gold leaf was applied. The splendor and beauty of the Golden Pavilion make Kinkaku-ji renowned worldwide.

　■ Sekka-tei 

Sekka-tei is a tea house within the gardens of Kinkaku-ji. Its name means "The Place Where the Evening Sun is Most Beautiful," reflecting the stunning view of the pavilion at sunset. Built during the Kan'ei period (1624-1644) by the abbot Hōrin Shōshō, who commissioned tea master Kanamori Sowa, it reflects the tea culture of the Edo period with unique architectural and decorative features.

The building is a thatched roof structure, featuring a Nandina column known as "Nandina Tokobashira," which is rare in tea houses and is considered auspicious. The interior includes a unique shelf called "Hagi no Chigaidana." There is also a two-mat upper room called "Hōsei-rō," where tea was offered to Emperor Go-Mizunoo. A stone seat called "Kijin Takai" for distinguished guests is located nearby.

The current Sekka-tei was reconstructed in 1874 and underwent restoration in 1997. It retains its traditional beauty, providing visitors with a sense of Edo-period tea culture.

　■ Sōmon (Main Gate) 

The Sōmon is the main entrance gate of Kinkaku-ji, conveying a sense of grandeur and historical significance. The roof of the gate is adorned with the temple crest, "Goshichi no Kiri," bestowed by the imperial family, indicating the temple's deep ties to the royal family.

Reconstructed in 1955, the gate faithfully replicates the original structure. Upon passing through the gate, visitors encounter a bell tower with a bell cast in the early Kamakura period, enhancing the historical atmosphere.

　■ Kyōko-chi (Mirror Pond) 

Kyōko-chi is the central pond of Kinkaku-ji, reflecting the Golden Pavilion like a mirror. The pond, about 2,000 tsubo (approximately 6,600 square meters) in size, features various islands and rocks, creating a picturesque strolling garden. The reflections of the pavilion in the pond, especially on clear days, are known as "Sakasa Kinkaku" (Inverted Golden Pavilion).

Seasonal flowers surround the pond, providing a different charm each season: cherry blossoms in spring, lush greenery in summer, vibrant autumn leaves, and snow scenes in winter. The pond also includes islands inspired by Chinese immortality beliefs, enhancing the overall aesthetic of the garden.

　■ Anmin-taku 

Anmin-taku is a serene pond surrounded by rich vegetation. It never dries up, even during droughts, and has been used for rain prayers. In the pond stands the Goryo Stone Tower, dedicated to the protective deities of the Saionji family.

This tranquil spot offers a peaceful atmosphere, attracting visitors seeking calmness. The Goryo Stone Tower is also known as a power spot for good fortune and happiness. The surrounding nature offers a beautiful view, changing with the seasons.

　■ Ginga-sen 

Ginga-sen is a spring located behind Kinkaku-ji, used by Ashikaga Yoshimitsu for tea ceremonies. The clear water still flows, providing a refreshing experience for visitors. The spring, with its historical significance and natural beauty, captivates many tourists.

The water has been traditionally used in tea ceremonies, enhancing the flavor of the tea. The spring's surroundings are adorned with beautiful stone arrangements and plants, offering a sense of nature's beauty and historical ambiance.

　■ Ryumon-taki 

Ryumon-taki is a small waterfall located northeast of Kinkaku-ji, named after the Chinese legend "Ascending the Dragon Gate," where a carp that climbs the waterfall becomes a dragon, symbolizing success and advancement. At the base of the waterfall lies a large stone called Koi Fish Stone, representing a carp ascending the waterfall.

The waterfall, about 2.3 meters high, provides a sense of natural beauty and tranquility with its flowing water. The combination of the waterfall and Koi Fish Stone enhances the garden's beauty, adding to Kinkaku-ji's overall charm.

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 Conclusion 

Kinkaku-ji is an important heritage site that symbolizes Japanese history and culture. Its beautiful architecture, gardens, rich history, and seasonal landscapes continue to captivate visitors. Through this article's overview of Kinkaku-ji, its history, highlights, and events, we hope you have gained a deeper understanding of this magnificent temple.

Kinkaku-ji is worth visiting year-round, offering different charms in each season. When planning your visit, be sure to check event information and open areas in advance to make the most of your experience. Enjoy the beauty and historical value of Kinkaku-ji and immerse yourself in a moment that connects you with traditional Japanese culture.