Maruyama Park: Kyoto's Oasis of Beauty

4.3 (5593)

Discover Kyoto's oldest park, a scenic haven with stunning cherry blossoms, traditional gardens, and serene beauty in the heart of Higashiyama.

Home
Japan
Kyoto
Gion
Maruyama Park

Maruyama Park, Kyoto's oldest public park, is a scenic escape nestled in the Higashiyama district. Known for its stunning cherry blossoms, especially the iconic weeping cherry tree, it offers a blend of natural beauty and cultural experiences.

A brief summary to Maruyama Park

Maruyamacho, Kyoto, Maruyamacho, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, 605-0071, JP
Click to display
Click to display

Monday 12 am-12 am
Tuesday 12 am-12 am
Wednesday 12 am-12 am
Thursday 12 am-12 am
Friday 12 am-12 am
Saturday 12 am-12 am
Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

Visit in late March or early April to witness the spectacular cherry blossoms, but be prepared for larger crowds.
Experience the magical nighttime illumination of the weeping cherry tree during the cherry blossom season.
Explore the park's traditional Japanese gardens, ponds, and streams for a tranquil escape.
Combine your visit with nearby cultural and historical sites like Yasaka Shrine, Kodai-ji Temple, and Chion-in Temple.
Enjoy a picnic or sample local cuisine at the park's restaurants and tea houses.

Do you manage this location?

Take control to get all the benefits, like improved information, better appearance, and stronger visibility across AI-powered discovery. Learn more

Activate your presence

Other nearby places you may find interesting

Warai Clock Tower

Warai Clock Tower: A Gion Landmark

Yasaka Shrine

Yasaka Shrine: A Serene Escape in Kyoto

South Tower Gate

South Tower Gate: A Portal to Yasaka Shrine

Getting There

Public Transport

From Kyoto Station, take Kyoto City Bus number 100 or 206 to the Gion bus stop. The park is a short walk from the bus stop. The bus ride takes approximately 20 minutes. The fare is ¥230.
Walking

Maruyama Park is accessible by foot from Gion-Shijo Station (Keihan Line), approximately a 15-minute walk. Alternatively, it's a 20+ minute walk from Kiyomizu-dera Temple through the Higashiyama District. Follow the signs towards Yasaka Shrine; the park is located next to the shrine.
Taxi

Taxis are readily available throughout Kyoto. A taxi from Kyoto Station to Maruyama Park takes about 5-6 minutes and costs approximately ¥1800-¥2400.

Discover more about Maruyama Park

Maruyama Park, located in the heart of Kyoto's Higashiyama district, is a nationally-designated Place of Scenic Beauty and the city's oldest public park. Opened in 1886, it was designed by Ogawa Jihei VII and offers visitors a serene escape with its traditional Japanese gardens, ponds, and winding pathways.The park is most famous for its cherry blossoms, drawing large crowds during the spring. The centerpiece is a towering weeping cherry tree (shidarezakura), which becomes a breathtaking sight when illuminated at night. The park's design incorporates elements of traditional Japanese gardens, including a pond, streams, and carefully arranged stones. These features create a tranquil atmosphere, inviting visitors to relax and appreciate the surrounding nature.Maruyama Park has historical ties to the nearby Yasaka Shrine, as the park area was once part of the shrine grounds. Over time, temples in the area were destroyed by fire, and the land was later developed into the park we know today. The park also features a music hall, built in 1927, which hosts various concerts and events. The park provides a perfect spot to enjoy a bento box lunch or explore the traditional tea houses and restaurants dotted around the area. The park is also near other cultural and historical landmarks, such as Yasaka Shrine, Kodai-ji Temple and Chion-in Temple.