The Serene Beauty of Higashiyama Jisho-ji
Explore the tranquil beauty of Higashiyama Jisho-ji, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Kyoto, known for its stunning gardens and rich cultural heritage.
Higashiyama Jisho-ji, also known as Ginkaku-ji or the Silver Pavilion, is a stunning Buddhist temple in Kyoto, renowned for its exquisite gardens and tranquil ambiance. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it embodies the essence of Japanese aesthetics, making it a must-visit for tourists seeking a peaceful escape amidst nature.
A brief summary to Higashiyama Jisho-ji
- 2 Ginkakujicho, Kyoto, Ginkakujicho, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto, 606-8402, JP
- +8175-771-5725
- Visit website
- Monday 8:30 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 8:30 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 8:30 am-5 pm
- Thursday 8:30 am-5 pm
- Friday 8:30 am-5 pm
- Saturday 8:30 am-5 pm
- Sunday 8:30 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning to enjoy a quieter experience and avoid crowds.
- Bring a camera; the gardens are particularly photogenic during cherry blossom and autumn seasons.
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking, as the paths can be uneven and steep in some areas.
- Consider purchasing a guidebook at the entrance to learn more about the temple's history and significance.
- Respect the peaceful environment by keeping noise to a minimum and refraining from eating on the temple grounds.
Getting There
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Train
From Osaka Station, take the JR Special Rapid Service to Kyoto Station. The journey takes approximately 30 minutes. Once at Kyoto Station, transfer to the Kyoto City Bus. Look for bus number 100 or 206, which will take you to the 'Ginkaku-ji' stop. From the bus stop, it is a short 10-minute walk to Higashiyama Jisho-ji (Ginkaku-ji). Just follow the signs towards Ginkaku-ji, and you will reach the temple entrance.
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Subway
From Namba Station in Osaka, take the Osaka Metro Midosuji Line to Umeda Station. Transfer to the Hankyu Kyoto Line and take the train to Kawaramachi Station in Kyoto. From Kawaramachi Station, catch the Kyoto City Bus number 203 or 204 to 'Ginkaku-ji' stop. After you get off the bus, walk about 10 minutes towards Ginkaku-ji, following the signs to the temple.
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Bus
If you prefer to take a direct bus, from Osaka, you can take the 'Kyoto Station' bound bus from the Osaka Abenobashi Terminal (Nankai Bus). This will take you directly to Kyoto Station. Once there, switch to the Kyoto City Bus (number 100 or 206) and get off at 'Ginkaku-ji'. From the bus stop, it is a 10-minute walk to Higashiyama Jisho-ji.
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Walking
If you are already in Kyoto, and nearby, you can enjoy a scenic walk to Higashiyama Jisho-ji. From the nearest subway station, Keage Station on the Tozai Line, exit and head north towards the Philosopher's Path. Walk along the path until you reach the Ginkaku-ji entrance, which should take around 15-20 minutes.
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