Kinkaku-ji is a Zen temple in northern Kyoto whose top two floors are completely covered in gold leaf. Formally known as Rokuonji, the temple was the retirement villa of the shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu, and according to his will it became a Zen temple of the Rinzai sect after his death in 1408.  

On the way there, I found moss that looked so beautiful against the rocks.

There was a lot of moss.

The setting for the temple was really lovely.

I believe that’s a heron on the left.

The temple has burned down numerous times throughout its history including twice during the Onin War, a civil war that destroyed much of Kyoto; and once again more recently in 1950 when it was set on fire by a fanatical monk. The present structure was rebuilt in 1955.

Finally, the temple from afar.

A closer look. It was raining, but very lightly.

A better view of the top.

We found azaleas blooming.

And some camellias were just starting to bloom.

One last look at the setting. The pond is so pretty.

Great weekend, everyone!

{carole}