[Kyoto 0003FH] From Ginkakuji to Nanzenji, a tour to enjoy the tranquility and beauty of Kyoto

Ginkakuji Temple's official name is Higashiyama Jisho-ji Temple, and like Kinkakuji Temple, it is one of the sub-temples of the Rinzai sect of Buddhism, the Shokoku-ji school. Many people understand the reason for the name Kinkakuji Temple, but wonder why Ginkakuji Temple is called that, even though it is not silver in color or covered in silver leaf. It actually began to be called "Ginkakuji Temple" during the Edo period, and the nickname "Ginkakuji Temple" was given to it as a counterpoint to "Kinkakuji Temple," which is famous for its golden Shariden Kinkakuji.

Ginkakuji Temple is located at the foot of Mt. Nyoigatake, famous for the Daimonji bonfires, and has been blessed with clear streams and beautiful scenery since ancient times. Jodo-ji Temple was formerly built in Higashiyama, but it was burned down during the Onin War and fell into ruin. However, it was selected as the site for the construction of a mountain villa by Ashikaga Yoshimasa, the 8th Shogun of the Muromachi Shogunate, who is said to have pursued beauty throughout his life, and construction of the Higashiyama Villa began in 1482 (Bunmei 14). After Yoshimasa died in 1490 (Entoku 2), in accordance with his will, Higashiyama Villa was converted into a Zen temple, and Jisho-ji Temple was founded with Muso Soseki as its founder. The name Jisho was taken from Yoshimasa's Buddhist name, Jisho-in.

The Philosopher's Path is a 1.5-kilometer road that stretches from Ginkakuji Temple to Eikando Temple and Nanzenji Temple.

This is an ancient site where it is said that in 1206, the monk Honen and his disciples performed Rokujiraisan. In 1680, Manmushin'a rebuilt it as a Nembutsu training hall in memory of the monk. Filled with the refreshing mountain air of Zenkiyama, the temple still exudes a solemn atmosphere. Climbing the approach to the temple is the thatched mountain gate. Passing through the gate, there are piles of sand on both sides with patterns painted in the white sand. The inside of the main hall is usually closed to the public, but you can view the principal image of Amida Nyorai from the front (though there may be cases where access is not possible due to memorial services, etc.). The grounds are also home to the graves of famous people such as Tanizaki Junichiro.

Nanzenji Temple is the head temple of the Nanzenji school of the Rinzai sect of Buddhism, founded 710 years ago in 1291 by Emperor Kameyama, who welcomed Zen Master Musan Fumon as its founder.



It flourished when Ashikaga Yoshimitsu made it "Gozan no Ue," above the Five Mountains of Kyoto and the Five Mountains of Kamakura. Furthermore, it has the highest status in the Zen world, with the most prominent Zen monks of the time living there as successive abbots and it becoming the center of Gozan literature.



Numerous cultural assets and abundant nature are highlights



The entire grounds of Nanzenji Temple are designated as a national historic site. There are many things to see within the grounds, including the national treasure "Hojo", important cultural properties such as the "Sanmon" gate, and the Hojo Garden, a national place of scenic beauty.



The temple grounds are also surrounded by nature, and the way the historical buildings blend into the natural scenery is incredibly beautiful and fantastical. It is one of Kyoto's most popular spots, and is visited by many worshippers.