Religious Building:

Kinkaku-Ji (Temple of the Golden Pavilion)

Informations:

Location: Kyoto,Japan Religion: Zen Buddhist Temple

Zen Buddhism is a mixture of Indian Mahayana Buddhism and Taoism. It began in China, spread to Korea and Japan, and became very popular in the West from the mid 20th century. The essence of Zen is attempting to understand the meaning of life directly, without being misled by logical thought or language

History:The pavilion was originally built as a retirement villa for Shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu in the late 14th century. It was converted into a Zen temple by his son. Unfortunately, the pavilion was burnt down in 1950 by a young monk who had become obsessed with it. Five years later, the temple was rebuilt as an exact copy of the original. Today,Kinkaku-Ji has become one of the most popular tourist attraction in Kyoto.

burned Kinkaku-Ji (1950)

Shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu

Layout of Kinkaku-Jin

Pond-host to Kinkaku-Ji,which seems to float in the middle of the water like a magic boat.In fact,the pavilion was designed to be

appreciated from the water,and boating parties were usually held here.

The golden pavilion is a three-storey building of rather small proportions, inspired by temples of southern China.

The Kinkaku ji has successfully merged three different architectural styles.

First floor-Chambers of water(Imperial palace style) It creates a contrast between the earthly and the celestial. It is basically a large room covered by a peripheral rail. Its wall is also divided into two parts. Walls are made of shutters-to allow a certain amount of light and air enter the building.

2nd floor-Tower of Wind Waves(Samurai Style). It is formed by an enclosed room,with a sliding screens, removable windows and with a peripheral railing. It is covered by gold.

Third floor-Kukkyoo-choo(Zen Style). It contains a triad of Buddhas and 25 Bodhisattva figurines. Holy room. Covered by gold.

Third floor is crowned with an image of phoenix on the top of the roof.It is a symbolic creatures in Zen’s culture. Made by steel.It’s a steel phoenix.

Interiors were not allowed to take picture.It is because the temple has been designated as World Heritage Site by UNESCO.So people only take picture

outside of the temple.

The End

Thank You!