kyoto

#kyoto
1. Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)
• Full Name: Rokuon-ji
• Famous For: Its top two floors are covered in gold leaf, and it sits beside a beautiful reflective pond.
• Built: Originally in 1397 as a retirement villa for shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu.
• Features: Zen Buddhist architecture, stunning gardens, and a tranquil setting.

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2. Kiyomizu-dera
• Founded: In 778, though the current buildings date from 1633.
• Famous For: The large wooden stage that juts out from the main hall, offering sweeping views of Kyoto.
• Name Meaning: “Pure Water Temple,” named after the Otowa Waterfall that flows beneath it.
• Religion: Independent Buddhist temple (originally part of the Hosso sect).

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3. Ginkaku-ji (Silver Pavilion)
• Full Name: Jisho-ji
• Built: In 1482 by shogun Ashikaga Yoshimasa as a retreat.
• Famous For: Though called the Silver Pavilion, it’s not covered in silver. It represents wabi-sabi (beauty in simplicity).
• Features: Zen rock gardens and moss gardens.

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4. Ryoan-ji
• Famous For: Its karesansui (rock garden)—a world-famous example of Zen landscaping.
• Built: In the 15th century.
• Style: Zen Buddhist.
• Mystery: The garden has 15 stones, but only 14 can be seen at once from any angle—said to represent imperfection.
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