The 500 year-old Temple of the Silver Pavilion (Ginkakuji/Jisho-ji) is (alas) not covered in silver foil like originally intended. Best visited early in the day or at sunset for the views and quiet.
This temple has it all: 1) beautiful garden 2) bamboo section 3) little waterfalls 4) walkway up to view the whole complex. Again - manicured perfection 😂
This temple's garden was my favorite walk during my visit to Japan. The crowds are light approaching closing time, and the scenery is stunning. Highly recommend taking a walk here.
Beautiful wabi-sabi aesthetic and mesmerizing sand art whose methods of construction are a total mystery to me. Pro tip: there is no silver in the Silver Pavilion!
Very touristy area, considering how far out it is from downtown. Bustours can mean long lines for tickets, but the place is really lovely. Not to be confused with Kinkaku-ji across town.