Photo: Abbot's Quarters

The Hôjô is the main temple building of Ginkaku-ji and dates to the mid-Edo period. Facing the Sea of Silver Sand on one side, it's powerful presence recalls the tastes of Ginkaku-ji's founder, Shogun Ashikaga Yoshimasa.

The central image of worship inside the hall is a statue of the historical Buddha Shakyamuni, while a plaque over the entrance reads "The Eastern Mountains extend above the water." Inside are sliding-door paintings by the great Edo-period Nanga literati painters Yosa Buson and Ike Taiga. The hall also boasts an extraordinary view of the white gravel gardens and the mountains behind them—perfect for moon viewing.