Why was kinkaku-ji built?

Kinkaku-ji, also known as the Golden Pavilion, was originally built as a retirement villa for the shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu in the late 14th century. It served as a place of meditation and reflection, embodying the ideals of Zen Buddhism and showcasing the connection between nature and architecture. After Yoshimitsu's death, it was converted into a Zen temple, further solidifying its cultural and spiritual significance. The pavilion's stunning gold leaf exterior symbolizes both beauty and the transience of life.