In Japanese literature many talented writers hav had their works translated. But none has been as influential as 3 times Nobel Prize nominated Yukio Mishima (1925-1970). Especially his death is quite spectacular as he committed
seppuku (Japanese suicide by the sword) upon having failed to inspire a coup d'état in Tokyo.
The Temple of Golden Pavilion or
金閣寺 (Kinkakuji) is probably one of the strongest novels by this eccentric Japanese writer. The intense psychological development of the main character is a must read for every would be psychiatrists!
The temple was at first a residence for the most powerful shogun of the Ashikaga period, Ashikaga Yoshimitsu. After his death it became the grounds for a zen temple, until the last century.
It is a fact that this marvellous 14th century Buddhist temple was burned down by a residing monk in 1955. This strange story is the main theme of Mishima's novel, where he describes the schizophrenic development of monk Mizoguchi. Especially the narrating of the love hate relationship the monk has with the Golden Pavilion is phenomenal.
The Japanese authorities started building the structure again after the arson and this is the result that can be visited in Kyoto.
The Golden Pavilion of Kyoto is such an history-filled site that will capture every visitor's imagination. No wonder Mishima described this architectural wonder in his amazing novel.
The Golden pavilion with its phoenix watching over the temple grounds is one of my most favourite tourist spots Japan. Hence my photographic post of this Buddhist temple.
