Top 10 Must-Visit Gardens in Kyoto: A Green Oasis in the Heart of Japan

Enchanted greeneries of Kyoto

Kyoto, city trapped in a time warp, bewitches visitors with its temples and tranquil blocks. But nestled within this historical cradle lies a collection of parks; enchanting green spaces that transcend the ordinary, taking you on a mesmerizing journey into tranquility and awe. Imagine stepping into these verdant sanctuaries where each path leads to a new discovery and every turn whispers of nature's magic. Visualize yourself meandering through dancing gardens that shimmer with light, discovering mystical ponds, and coming across vibrant blooms. Kyoto's parks are more than just retreats; they're captivating experiences that unite the beauty of the natural world with the city's profound cultural heritage. Join us on a journey through ten of Kyoto's best parks, each one serving as a testament to the city's enchanting charm.

1. Kyoto Imperial Palace Park (Kyoto Gyoen) The vast Kyoto Imperial Palace Park offers a mysterious atmosphere where time seems to have frozen. The park, enclosed by bustling streets like Karasuma Dori, Imadegawa Dori, Teramachi Dori, and Marutamachi Dori, is designed for public relaxation. Hidden rest areas, children's playgrounds, and exercise facilities wait to be discovered amidst the myriad trees. Particularly in February, about 200 red and white plum blossoms burst into bloom, creating a magical scene that heralds the arrival of spring!
2. Murasaki Shikibu Garden (Maruyama Park) Maruyama Park sits quietly on a hillside in Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto. As the oldest park in the city, the expansive circuit-style garden swirls against the backdrop of Higashiyama, offering a secret refuge for locals. In early April, hundreds of cherry trees bloom simultaneously, creating a breathtaking tunnel that transports visitors to a dreamland.
3. Kyoto Quartet (Umekoji Park) Umekoji Park, situated away from the west of Kyoto Station, provides a relaxing haven in the heart of the city center. The park is cherished by locals and offers a peaceful retreat from the city's hustle and bustle. The park also houses a restaurant called Kyoyasai, where visitors can savor dishes made from the abundance of Kyoto's vegetables and indulge in a la carte dishes in a beautiful green setting.
4. Tanzan-so Garden (Arashiyama Park) Arashiyama Park is dramatically located where the Hozu River valley opens up into the plain, stretching across three distinct districts – Kameyama, Nakanoshima, and Rinsen-ji. The quiet, hilly Kameyama area is southeast of Mt. Ogura and is filled with red pines, with cherry and maple trees adding an array of colors. Besides these, clusters of rhododendron complement the park's picturesque natural scenery.
5. The Monkey Sanctuary (Arashiyama Monkey Park Iwatayama) Arashiyama Monkey Park Iwatayama is home to around 120 Japanese monkeys living in the wild. The park's rich natural environment offers visitors an up-close encounter with the monkeys without fences. Surrounded by Arashiyama's cherry blossoms in spring and autumn leaves in fall, visitors can enjoy a unique moment with these lively creatures away from the city's noise.
6. Katsurazaka Wild Bird Refuge Stretching over approximately 1.5 acres, Katsurazaka Wild Bird Refuge is divided into the "Bird Sanctuary" area, which shelters wild birds, and the "Back Mountain" area with a "path for playing with birds" consisting of three routes. The park's diverse ecosystem is home to around 100 species of wild birds, offering visitors a variety of bird encounters. The park features a bird-watching tower, a grassy plaza with a streaming waterway, and a walking path around the back hills, making it a popular hiking course.
7. Kyoto Botanical Gardens Established in 1924, Kyoto Botanical Garden is the oldest public botanical garden in Japan. Spread over 24 hectares, the garden houses more than 12,000 plant species, many of which are endangered or rare, making it a treasure trove of nature. The garden celebrates its 100th anniversary in 2024 and will host a special event called "LIGHT CYCLES KYOTO," where plants will be illuminated by stunning lights, inviting visitors to a dreamlike world.
8. Hanashikujisen Garden (Haradani-en Garden) Located northwest of Kinkakuji Temple, Haradani-en Garden is a hidden gem, only open to the public during the cherry blossom and fall foliage seasons. Covering about 3.3 acres, the garden is home to over 400 cherry trees of around 20 varieties, including Somei-yoshino and weeping cherry, creating a magical sight during their bloom.
9. Suiro-tei Garden (Murin-an Garden) First built as a villa for Aritomo Yamagata, a politician active in the Meiji and Taisho eras, Murin-an Garden represents the pinnacle of a Meiji-era Japanese garden. Designated as a national place of scenic beauty, the garden is the quintessential representation of wabi-sabi, offering visitors a luxurious respite that seems to freeze time. Every Saturday and Sunday, a garden concierge guides visitors through the garden, providing detailed tips on how to appreciate and care for the garden while offering visitors a cup of matcha to savor the beauty of the garden.
10. Ryoan-ji (Dry Garden) Founded in 1450 by Hosokawa Katsumoto, a powerful figure in the Muromachi shogunate, Ryoan-ji attracts visitors with its history and soul-stirring beauty. The Zen temple is famous for its rock garden, with 15 rocks placed on white sand, encapsulating stillness and beauty. During the fall, the temple's cherry and maple trees change colors, creating a breathtaking display that highlights the harmony between nature and gardens.

As you've roamed with us through the enchanting parks of Kyoto, were there any greeneries that left you yearning for more? Each park boasts its unique charm and allure, guaranteeing a memorable encounter with Kyoto's magic. Whether you're captivated by the serene landscapes, the hidden gems, or the vibrant seasonal displays, the world of wonder awaits you in these verdant retreats. Welcome to your journey to these enchanting green spaces!

For assistance in organizing your exploration of Kyoto, consult our website: Tours in Kyoto. We're here to make your journey as seamless and unforgettable as possible.

▶Kyoto 8h Private Custom Highlight Tour with Licensed GuideOn this custom, full-day private tour of Kyoto, you'll have the opportunity to explore the city's highlights, delve into its culture, and unlock mysteries that will captivate you.

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▶Meet a Geisha in Kyoto: Guided Walk in Gion and Enchanted Time with MaikoMeet a Maiko, a geisha in Kyoto, and embark on a guided walk through Gion, the geisha district. Learn about an authentic Japanese tradition that has endured for centuries, and capture memories that will last a lifetime.

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▶Explore Nishiki Market: Food & Culture WalkIf you're curious about Kyoto's culture and cuisine, join this Kyoto food and drink tour to uncover the market's secrets and explore the famous surrounding areas.

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▶Kimono ExperienceKyoto offers a wide array of kimono rental options to help you step into Japanese tradition. Whether you choose a traditional, modern, or stylish design, wearing a kimono will make your Kyoto adventure feel extra special.

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Immerse yourself in the captivating experiences of Kyoto's finest restaurants, where the art of both traditional and innovative cuisine meets the essence of Kyoto's lifestyle.
After exploring the parks and temples, opt for a home-and-garden tour to appreciate the architectural beauty and tranquility of private residences in Kyoto.
For an enriching cultural journey, attend tea ceremonies or sumo wrestling matches during your stay to deepen your understanding of Japanese culture.
When the leaves begin to turn in autumn, don't miss out on the opportunity to take a tour among the cherry blossoms or the autumn leaves – an unforgettable spectacle that embodies the best of Kyoto's nature and lifestyle.
Seek travel tips from experts to help manage your time efficiently and immerse yourself in Kyoto's hidden gems, allowing you to create a truly personalized itinerary.
Beyond the parks, venture into the charming streets of Kyoto's thriving neighborhoods, each with its unique lifestyle, food, and history, creating a rich tapestry of experiences to savor.
Since Kyoto's beauty is most evident during different seasons, consider returning multiple times to discover the enchanting green spaces, parks, and gardens in all their splendor; the opportunity to experience Kyoto's ever-changing landscape is one you don't want to miss.