A must-visit on your Kyoto trip! Ginkaku-ji, a perfect blend of Zen and aesthetics

Guys, today I'm going to take you to a shining gem of Kyoto City - Ginkaku-ji! The beauty of this place lies not only in its historical and cultural heritage, but also in the transcendent and serene beauty of Zen. 📍Location: Ginkaku-ji (Silver Pavilion) is located in the Sakyo Ward of Kyoto City, Japan, which is what we often refer to as 'Ginkaku-ji'. Although named 'silver', the temple is not covered in silver foil; instead, it's the simplicity of the natural wood tones that instantly transports you to the elegant atmosphere of the Muromachi shogunate era. 🔍Historical Secrets: The temple was passionately built by the eighth shogun of the Muromachi shogunate, Ashikaga Yoshimasa, starting in 1482, as his place of retirement and Zen meditation. Compared to the glittering gold, Ginkaku-ji is more subdued and elegant, resembling a light ink landscape painting, quietly telling the stories of the years. 👀Highlights: 1️⃣ Kannon-den & Shouin-dou: The two-story pavilions each have their own characteristics. Kannon-den is modeled after the reliquary hall of Saiho-ji, and Shouin-dou serves as a place for Zen meditation, with Buddha statues enshrined within, and every brick and tile is imbued with the profound philosophy of Zen Buddhism. 2️⃣ Ultimate Garden Art: The east and west gardens are like miniature natural scrolls, especially the Kogetsudai, symbolizing Mount Fuji, and the delicate karesansui (dry landscape) rock garden, as if you can hear the sound of time flowing through your fingertips. Take a set of artistic photos and become the star of your social circle! 📸 🌍World Heritage Charm: Ginkaku-ji has been listed as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site since 1994, and is one of the cultural treasures of the ancient capital, Kyoto. Here, you can not only feel the profound influence of Zen culture but also experience the unique charm of traditional Japanese aesthetics. 🗺️ How can you miss the poetic and Zen-filled Ginkaku-ji when in Kyoto? Here, every scene is a story, and every step is a practice. Remember to bring your camera to capture this tranquil and profound beauty, and leave your unique footprint in the long history of Kyoto! 👣💫