Kinkaku-ji, commonly known as the Golden Pavilion due to the fame of the Shariden (the Golden Pavilion) itself, is officially called Rokuon-ji. It was founded as a villa by Ashikaga Yoshimitsu, the third shogun of the Ashikaga shogunate, and belongs to the Rinzai sect of the Shokoku-ji school. The name "Rokuon" comes from the historical site "Shakabune," where the Buddha first delivered his teachings, and it is derived from the posthumous title of its founder, Ashikaga Yoshimitsu, which is Rokuon-in Don.
The gardens of Buddhist temples are distinct from those in Christianity, being rooted in a Buddhist worldview. Together with the main hall and pagoda, the gardens embody this Buddhist perspective. By visiting the temple and immersing oneself in its environment, one can engage with the Buddhist world in a way that is often more compelling than sermons or teachings. The opportunity to share Zen and Zen culture with many people around the world through temple visits has led to a recognition of its value.
nkonkohira
September 9, 2024

The formal name is Rokuon-ji, and it is one of the sub-temples of Shokoku-ji. It is commonly referred to as Kinkaku-ji due to the especially famous Shariden, or "Golden Pavilion."

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