Japan Adventure

Wow -- Formally known as Rokuonji, although it is referred to as Kinkakuzi (Temple of the Golden Pavilion). It's a Zen temple, and was commissioned in 1397, along with all the buildings on these grounds, by Ashikaga Yoshimitsu, the third Ashikaga shogun. He wanted an elegant retreat from which he could continue to wield power after his retirement in 1395. While he was living, it was his palace and was the site of lavish parties and the center of Japanese politics. In accordance with his last wishes, the site became a temple after his death in 1408. This current structure is a reproduction, built in 1955 after the original was burnt down by a deranged monk in 1950. The original was more modest and the reproduction is considered gaudy by some, but remains one of the most popular tourist sites in Japan.