Kyoto Gyoen National Garden: A Tranquil Oasis in Kyoto
Explore Kyoto Gyoen National Garden: A historic park with imperial palaces, serene gardens, and seasonal beauty in the heart of Kyoto.
Kyoto Gyoen National Garden, a 65-hectare park in central Kyoto, offers a serene escape from the city's bustle. Formerly the site of the Kyoto Imperial Palace and residences of court nobles, it's now a public garden with historical structures, peaceful gardens, and recreational spaces.
A brief summary to Kyoto Gyoen National Garden
- 3 Kyotogyoen, Kyoto, Kyotogyoen, Kamigyo Ward, Kyoto, 602-0881, JP
- +8175-211-6348
- Visit website
Local tips
- Wear comfortable shoes, as the garden is extensive and requires a good amount of walking.
- Visit during spring (March-May) or autumn (October-November) for the best seasonal views.
- Bring a picnic blanket to relax and enjoy the scenery.
- Check for festivals like Aoi Matsuri (May 15th) or Jidai Matsuri (October 22nd) for a unique cultural experience.
- Note that drones and radio-controlled equipment are prohibited in the garden.
Getting There
-
Public Transport
From Kyoto Station, take the Karasuma Subway Line to either Marutamachi Station (7 mins) or Imadegawa Station (9 mins). From Marutamachi Station, it's approximately a 5-minute walk to the garden's west entrance. From Imadegawa Station, it is also a short walk to the garden. Subway fares range from ¥220 to ¥350 depending on the distance. A one-day subway pass is available for ¥800.
-
Bus
From Kyoto Station, take Kyoto City Bus number 4, 17, or 205 to the Furitsu Idai Byoin-mae bus stop. From there, it's a short, 7-minute walk to the garden. The flat fare for buses within the central area of Kyoto is ¥230 for adults. A one-day bus pass is available for ¥600, or a combination bus and subway pass for ¥1100.
-
Taxi
Taxis are readily available throughout Kyoto. The starting fare is ¥490 for the first 1.5km, with an additional ¥320 for each subsequent kilometer. A 5km ride from Kyoto Station to Kyoto Gyoen would cost approximately ¥2090. Note that these are estimates and the actual fare may vary.
-
Car
If driving, use the Nakadachiuri parking lot or the Seiwain parking lot. Note that parking is free for the first three hours for electric vehicles (EVs) and fuel cell vehicles (FCVs) at the Nakadachiuri Parking Lot. Standard taxi fees will be applied on top of overnight parking fees.
Discover more about Kyoto Gyoen National Garden
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The Ritz-Carlton, Kyoto
1.2 km
Discover unparalleled luxury and serene beauty at The Ritz-Carlton, Kyoto, a perfect blend of tradition and modern elegance.
Kyoto International Manga Museum
1.3 km
Explore the rich world of manga at the Kyoto International Manga Museum, a cultural haven for enthusiasts and curious visitors alike.
Karasuma Oike ruins, Heian-kyo mark
1.4 km
Explore the Karasuma Oike ruins in Kyoto, where ancient history meets modern charm, offering a captivating glimpse into Japan's imperial past.
Island-Lake
1.5 km
Discover tranquility at Island-Lake, a serene oasis in the heart of Kyoto, perfect for relaxation and nature lovers alike.
京都万華鏡ミュージアム 姉小路館
1.5 km
Explore the exquisite craftsmanship of Kyoto at the Handicraft Museum, showcasing traditional and modern Japanese artistry in a captivating setting.
TOURS IN KYOTO
1.5 km
Discover Kyoto's rich cultural heritage through immersive guided tours of its iconic landmarks and hidden gems.
Tenshō-ji Temple
1.6 km
Explore the serene beauty and rich culture of Tenshō-ji Temple, a must-visit Buddhist temple in Kyoto's Nakagyo Ward.
Kyoto Shibori Museum
1.7 km
Experience the intricate beauty of shibori at the Kyoto Shibori Museum, where art and tradition intertwine to create a unique cultural journey.
Nijō Castle
1.7 km
Experience the grandeur of Nijō Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Kyoto, where history, architecture, and nature beautifully intertwine.
Statues of Yaji-san & Kita-san
1.7 km
Discover the enchanting Statues of Yaji-san & Kita-san in Kyoto, a captivating blend of folklore, artistry, and cultural heritage.
KIMONO TEA CEREMONY KYOTO MAIKOYA at NISHIKI
1.7 km
Discover the tranquility of Japanese culture with an authentic tea ceremony experience in the heart of Kyoto, dressed in a traditional kimono.
Sanjo Ohashi
1.7 km
Experience the charm and beauty of Sanjo Ohashi, Kyoto's historic bridge connecting culture, nature, and vibrant city life.
The Flower Corridor
1.7 km
Discover the enchanting beauty of The Flower Corridor in Kyoto, a serene path adorned with vibrant flowers and exquisite stone carvings.
Kyoto Samurai
1.8 km
Experience the rich heritage of samurai culture at Kyoto Samurai, where history comes to life through martial arts and engaging workshops.
Kyoto Shinkyogoku Shopping Street
1.8 km
Explore the vibrant Kyoto Shinkyogoku Shopping Street, where tradition meets modern shopping and dining in the heart of Kyoto.
Unmissable attractions to see
Kyoto Omiya Imperial Palace
0.1 km
Discover the imperial elegance and serene beauty of Kyoto Omiya Imperial Palace, a historic landmark surrounded by enchanting gardens.
Jomei-mon Gate
0.1 km
Explore the Jomei-mon Gate, a stunning historical landmark in Kyoto Gyoen National Garden, embodying Japan's rich architectural heritage and serene beauty.
Kyoto Sento Imperial Palace
0.2 km
Discover the serene beauty and rich history of Kyoto Sento Imperial Palace, a must-visit heritage site in Japan's cultural capital.
Boulevard before Kenreimon Gate
0.2 km
Discover serenity and beauty at the Boulevard before Kenreimon Gate, an essential stop in Kyoto's historic garden landscape.
Oikeniwa (Pond Garden)
0.2 km
Explore the serene beauty of Oikeniwa Pond Garden in Kyoto, a stunning retreat filled with vibrant landscapes and rich cultural heritage.
Kemari-no-niwa (Playground for Ancient Football Game of the Imperial Court)
0.2 km
Explore the serene Kemari-no-niwa in Kyoto Gyoen, where ancient football meets tranquil gardens, a must-visit for culture enthusiasts.
Seiryoden (Inner Palace)
0.2 km
Explore the historical charm of Seiryoden in Kyoto, a tranquil landmark surrounded by beautiful gardens and rich cultural heritage.
Otsunegoten (Imperial Residential Palace)
0.3 km
Experience the tranquility and splendor of Otsunegoten, a historical landmark that reflects the elegance of Kyoto's imperial heritage amidst lush gardens.
Kyoto Imperial Palace
0.4 km
Explore the historical elegance and natural beauty of Kyoto Imperial Palace, a cultural landmark reflecting Japan's royal history.
Seishomon Gate
0.4 km
Discover Seishomon Gate: A historical gateway to the stunning Kyoto Imperial Palace Gardens, where tranquility and culture meet in a breathtaking landscape.
Nashinoki Shrine
0.4 km
Experience the serene beauty of Nashinoki Shrine, a hidden gem in Kyoto that embodies Japan's rich Shinto traditions and tranquil landscapes.
Rozan-ji Temple
0.4 km
Discover tranquility and traditional beauty at Rozan-ji Temple, a hidden Buddhist gem in Kyoto's serene landscape.
Go-ō Shrine
0.4 km
Experience the spiritual tranquility of Go-ō Shrine in Kyoto, a serene Shinto shrine dedicated to the boar deity amidst beautifully landscaped gardens.
Chomyoji
0.5 km
Discover the tranquility and rich history of Chomyoji, a serene landmark nestled in Kyoto's imperial grounds, perfect for peaceful reflection.
Honzen-ji Temple
0.6 km
Discover the serene beauty and spiritual heritage of Honzen-ji Temple, a hidden gem in the heart of Kyoto, Japan.
Essential places to dine
Restaurant Higakisaryo
0.4 km
Experience authentic Japanese cuisine at Restaurant Higakisaryo in Kyoto - where tradition meets culinary excellence.
Nakaso Tango
0.7 km
Discover authentic Japanese cuisine at Nakaso Tango, where tradition meets flavor in the heart of Kyoto.
Kyoto cuisine Teramachi Yoshikura
0.7 km
Discover authentic Kyoto cuisine at Teramachi Yoshikura – where traditional flavors meet modern creativity in an unforgettable dining experience.
Saishuan Shiraki
0.8 km
Discover the authentic flavors of Japan at Saishuan Shiraki - a premier izakaya experience in the heart of Kyoto.
Hafuu
0.9 km
Discover Hafuu in Kyoto: where premium Japanese beef meets culinary excellence in an elegant setting.
cafe kozora
0.9 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Cafe Kozora in Kyoto, where every dish tells a story and every sip transports you to Italy.
Steak Ichiro
1.0 km
Experience exquisite dining at Steak Ichiro, where premium steaks meet traditional Japanese hospitality in Kyoto's vibrant culinary scene.
Nakau - Karasuma Imadegawa
1.1 km
Discover delicious Japanese comfort food at Nakau - Karasuma Imadegawa in Kyoto, featuring gyudon, soba noodles & more.
Antonio
1.1 km
Discover authentic Spanish flavors at Antonio in Kyoto – where culinary artistry meets vibrant ambiance.
Tategami
1.2 km
Experience authentic Kyoto-style Japanese cuisine at Tategami - where tradition meets innovation in every bite.
Honke Owariya Main Branch
1.2 km
Experience authentic Kyoto flavors at Honke Owariya Main Branch - renowned for its handcrafted soba noodles and traditional Japanese sweets.
Arancino Kyoto
1.3 km
Experience exquisite Italian cuisine at Arancino Kyoto – where tradition meets innovation in every dish.
Hotel Okura Kyoto
1.4 km
Discover unparalleled luxury at Hotel Okura Kyoto - where tradition meets modern elegance in the heart of Japan's ancient capital.
Sakuragawa
1.4 km
Discover authentic Kaiseki dining at Sakuragawa in Kyoto – where culinary artistry meets traditional Japanese flavors.
MUGHAL Indian Restaurant & Bar
1.4 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of India at Mughal Indian Restaurant & Bar in Kyoto – a haven for food lovers seeking authentic South Asian cuisine.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Daikichi
1.1 km
Explore the exquisite collection of antiques at Daikichi, where every piece tells a story of Japan's rich cultural heritage in the heart of Kyoto.
Bando Kinran - Co., Ltd. Bando Store
1.3 km
Explore the colorful tapestry of Kyoto at Bando Kinran, a premier fabric store offering exquisite textiles and crafting workshops.
D_MALL京都
1.4 km
Discover unique fashion accessories in Kyoto at D_MALL, where local style meets contemporary trends in a vibrant shopping atmosphere.
Rōji Tempo
1.5 km
Discover the vibrant shopping experience at Rōji Tempo, where Kyoto's rich culture meets modern retail in a beautiful setting.
京都・うつわ・食器 / Gallery Nisui 而水
1.5 km
Explore the exquisite artistry of Kyoto at Gallery Nisui, your premier destination for fine chinaware and unique ceramics.
Furugiya KINJI Kyototen
1.6 km
Explore Furugiya KINJI Kyototen in Kyoto for a delightful vintage shopping experience featuring unique pre-loved clothing and accessories.
Kyoto Handicraft Center
1.6 km
Discover the essence of Japanese craftsmanship and cuisine at the Kyoto Handicraft Center, where tradition meets artistry in the heart of Kyoto.
GOHOBI - Kyoto Sanjo-Teramachi
1.6 km
Explore a variety store in Kyoto offering unique bags, confectioneries, teas, and women's clothing, all reflecting the city's rich culture.
Sanjo Meiten-gai Shopping Arcade
1.7 km
Discover the heart of Kyoto at Sanjo Meiten-gai Shopping Arcade, where traditional charm meets modern shopping and dining.
musubi -kyoto-
1.7 km
Discover the beauty of traditional kimonos and fashion accessories at Musubi, a gem in the heart of Kyoto’s cultural landscape.
Media Shop
1.7 km
Explore Kyoto's Media Shop, a unique magazine store and art gallery that combines literature and creativity in a captivating cultural experience.
Pan-no-Tajima Shinkyogoku
1.7 km
Discover the authentic taste of Kyoto at Pan-no-Tajima Shinkyogoku, a bakery offering exquisite breads and pastries crafted with tradition.
MoMA Design Store Kyoto
1.7 km
Discover unique design treasures at MoMA Design Store Kyoto, where modern art meets traditional Japanese aesthetics in a vibrant shopping experience.
mina Kyoto
1.8 km
Discover Kyoto's fashion scene at mina Kyoto, where modern style meets traditional craftsmanship in a vibrant shopping atmosphere.
Kyoto LOFT
1.8 km
Explore Kyoto LOFT: A vibrant general store with cosmetics, home goods, and unique novelties in the heart of Kyoto.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
House of KI NO BI
1.1 km
Experience the serene ambiance and exquisite craft cocktails at the House of KI NO BI, a must-visit bar in Kyoto for every traveler.
Bar K6
1.3 km
Discover the perfect blend of modern cocktails and traditional ambiance at Bar K6, a lively bar in the heart of Kyoto's nightlife.
別館 BAR K家
1.5 km
Immerse yourself in Kyoto's nightlife at 別館 BAR K家, where traditional charm meets innovative cocktails.
Bar Fishbowl
1.6 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Kyoto at Bar Fishbowl, where innovative cocktails and stunning city views await you.
Caamm bar
1.6 km
Discover the lively spirit of Kyoto at Caamm Bar, where traditional hospitality meets modern nightlife in a vibrant setting.
Pig & Whistle
1.7 km
Discover Pig & Whistle, a charming pub in Kyoto offering a delightful blend of local cuisine, craft beers, and a warm, inviting atmosphere.
bar K-ya main building
1.8 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Kyoto at Bar K-ya, where cozy ambiance meets an eclectic drink selection in the heart of the city.
Bar Cordon Noir
1.8 km
Discover the enchanting Bar Cordon Noir in Kyoto, where exquisite whiskies and a cozy atmosphere await every visitor.
feel京good
1.8 km
Experience Kyoto's vibrant nightlife at Feel 京 Good, a chic bar offering a unique ambiance and an extensive selection of local and international drinks.
Lounge & Bar 1867 (ダーワ・悠洛 京都 by バンヤン・グループ)
1.8 km
Unwind in the elegance of Kyoto at Lounge & Bar 1867, where tradition meets modern luxury in a serene atmosphere.
Macho Bar
1.8 km
Experience the dynamic nightlife of Kyoto at Macho Bar, where cocktails meet entertainment in a bustling izakaya atmosphere.
cafe&bar Miltons Kyoto
1.8 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Kyoto at Miltons, a cozy bar offering exceptional drinks and a welcoming atmosphere in Nakagyo Ward.
Concrete Bar
1.9 km
Discover the dynamic nightlife of Kyoto at Concrete Bar, where cocktails flow and friendships blossom in a vibrant atmosphere.
UNDERBAR-KYOTO
1.9 km
Dive into Kyoto's vibrant nightlife at UNDERBAR-KYOTO, where cocktails, darts, and music create an unforgettable evening.
Kyoto Pub
1.9 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Kyoto at Kyoto Pub, where local brews and traditional hospitality come together in a lively atmosphere.
