Ginkaku-ji (GPS: 35.02701, 135.7982) or The Silver Pavilion is an important temple in Kyoto, Japan. The actual Japanese name for it is Higashiyama Jisho-ji.
The Ginkaku-ji is an important part of Japanese culture. It was within its walls that the tea ceremony, Noh, flower arrangement and ink painting were developed to new heights of refinement.
The Silver Pavilion was built by the shogun Yoshimasa (1358-1408). He is credited for ushering in an artistic renaissance to Kyoto, often known as the Higashiyama culture. Yoshimasa had wanted to finish the pavilion in silver, just as his grandfather had covered the Kinkaku-ji with golf leaf. Unfortunately, the Onion War thwarted his plans. Nonetheless the Silver Pavilion retains its title, despite not being silver in finishing.
Ginkaku-ji Temple in winter, Kyoto
Source: http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Ginkakuji04.jpg Author: Moja