Highly Recommended by Locals: 5 Picturesque Japanese Gardens in Kyoto

Kyoto is a city in Japan known for its traditional atmosphere. Along with Osaka, it is a popular destination for Korean travelers. Here, I will introduce tranquil Japanese gardens that are perfect for visiting in Kyoto.

Ryoanji (龍安寺) is the most famous garden in Japan. Registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1994, it consists of traditional architectural styles and gardens. A popular destination on Kyoto’s travel itinerary, it is also renowned as a cherry blossom spot in spring. During the cherry blossom season, visitors can enjoy the tranquil scenery within the garden.

Originally constructed for a noble family, Ryoanji is believed to have been created by a Zen Buddhist monk around 1500. The garden depicts a landscape with water using only rocks and sand, showcasing a typical Japanese garden style.

Ryoanji gained prominence when Queen Elizabeth II visited during her official visit to Japan. It is highly recommended as a must-visit destination during a trip to Kyoto.

• Address: 13 Ryoanji Goryonoshitacho, Ukyo Ward, Kyoto, 616-8001, Japan
• Operating hours: 08:00~17:00
• Admission fee: Adults 600 yen (approximately $5.39), High school students 500 yen (approximately $4.49), Elementary/Middle school students 300 yen (approximately $2.70)

Ginkakuji (銀閣寺) is a quintessential garden in Kyoto, renowned for its harmonious integration with nature. Initially erected in 1460 for Shogun Ashikaga Yoshimasa’s retirement abode, it has left a lasting impact on the architectural aesthetics of the elite class through successive generations, influencing even the modern Japanese architectural styles.

Ginkakuji holds a distinguished status among Kyoto’s landmarks. It is recommended that visitors visit during its early opening hours or just before its closure. A leisurely stroll along the trail embracing the garden’s rear adds to the experience. Accessible via a bus ride from Kyoto Station, alighting at the Ginkakuji-michi bus stop places visitors within a mere 10-minute walk of the site.

• Address: 2 Ginkakujicho, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto, 606-8402, Japan
• Operating hours: 8:30~17:00
• Admission fee: Adults 500 yen (approximately $4.49), Children 300 yen (approximately $2.69)

Shoseien (成園) is a Japanese-style garden situated approximately 10 minutes away from Kyoto Station. Offering a panoramic view of Kyoto Tower, it is renowned for juxtaposing its traditional garden’s timeless charm with the tower’s contemporary presence.

Established in 1641, Shoseien boasts a sizable pond as its centerpiece. The seamless integration of the garden and architectural structures creates a picturesque landscape. Enhanced by the vibrant cherry blossoms adorning its grounds, Shoseien provides an exquisite setting to revel in the beauty of spring. With its tranquil ambiance reminiscent of other esteemed Japanese gardens, Shoseien is a highly recommended destination for travelers exploring Kyoto.

• Address: 243 Shimogyo Ward, Kyoto, 604-8336, 六角通大宮西入三条大宮町243

Ohara is a location nestled in the mountainous northern region of Kyoto. Surrounded by serene mountain ranges, it exudes an aura of antiquity accumulated over many years. Comprising Sanzenin Temple, Jikkoin Temple, and Jakko-in Temple, Ohara offers a tranquil retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Among them, Sanzenin Temple stands out as the most renowned destination in Ohara. Enclosed by towering stone walls, it is connected to hiking trails that traverse the mountains, and visitors can encounter the Otanashi Waterfall along the way. Jikkoin, situated beyond Sanzenin, once served as lodging for monks but now fulfills its role as a temple.

Jikkoin features two distinct gardens, offering a serene ambiance where visitors can experience the natural beauty of Kyoto without venturing far. At Jakko-in, visitors can appreciate calligraphy works and ancient Japanese art exhibitions, making it an ideal destination for enjoying the tranquil scenery of Kyoto.

Ohara is a must-visit destination, particularly renowned for its stunning cherry blossoms in spring and vibrant foliage in autumn. To reach Ohara, take a bus from JR Kyoto Station.

• Address: 540 Ohararaikoincho, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto, 601-1242 Japan
• Admission fee: Adults 700 yen (approximately $6.27), Middle/High school students 400 yen (approximately $3.58), Elementary school students 150 yen (approximately $1.34)

Tenryuji (天龍寺) is a traditional Japanese garden in the heart of Arashiyama. Divided into three main areas – the garden, the temple, and the lecture hall – each requires separate admission tickets for entry. Visitors can immerse themselves in the exquisite scenery of the garden and encounter captivating sights such as the dragon ceiling painting and the garden view from the temple’s veranda, all of which vary depending on the season.

• Address: 68 Sagatenryuji Susukinobabacho, Ukyo Ward, Kyoto, 616-8385 Japan
• Operating hours: 8:30~17:00
• Admission fee: Adults 500 yen (approximately $4.48), Elementary/Middle school students 300 yen (approximately $2.69)

 Photos=shokoku-ji.jp goodnaturehotel, livejapan