Shugakuin Imperial Villa: A Tranquil Retreat
Discover serene Japanese gardens and imperial history at Shugakuin Imperial Villa, a tranquil Kyoto escape.
Shugakuin Imperial Villa, nestled in the hills of Kyoto, is a serene 17th-century garden estate showcasing traditional Japanese landscape design. Featuring three distinct villas with meticulously crafted gardens, it offers a peaceful escape and a glimpse into imperial history.
A brief summary to Shugakuin Imperial Villa
- Shugakuin Yabusoe, Kyoto, Shugakuin Yabusoe, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto, 606-8052, JP
- +8175-211-1215
- Visit website
Local tips
- Reservations are required to visit Shugakuin Imperial Villa. Book online in advance or apply in person at the Imperial Household Agency in Kyoto Imperial Park.
- Tours are primarily in Japanese, but audio guides in English and other languages are available.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as the tour involves walking on gravel paths and gentle slopes.
- Bring your passport or Gaijin card for check-in before the tour.
Getting There
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Public Transport
From Kyoto Station, take the JR Nara Line to Tofukuji Station (3 minutes) and transfer to the Keihan Line to Demachiyanagi Station (10 minutes). From there, take the Eizan Railway to Shugakuin Station (7 minutes). The villa entrance is a 10-15 minute walk from Shugakuin Station. The entire trip costs approximately ¥650. Alternatively, take the Karasuma Line to Kokusaikaikan Station, then bus #5 to Shugakuin Rikyu-michi bus stop, followed by a 15-minute walk. A single subway fare ranges from ¥220-¥360. A single bus fare is ¥230.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available throughout Kyoto. From Kyoto Station, a taxi to Shugakuin Imperial Villa takes approximately 30-40 minutes, depending on traffic. The fare will likely range from ¥2,090 to ¥2,688. Note that taxi fares in Kyoto start at ¥490-¥620 for the first 1.5 km, with additional charges per kilometer.
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Walking
From Shugakuin Station on the Eizan Railway, it is a 10-15 minute walk to Shugakuin Imperial Villa. Follow the signs and walk north, passing through a residential area before reaching the villa entrance.
Discover more about Shugakuin Imperial Villa
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