Katsura Imperial Villa

Park

★ 4.9 (26K+ reviews) • 538K+ booked

Nestled in the serene western suburbs of Kyoto, the Katsura Imperial Villa, or Katsura Rikyū, is a timeless testament to Japan's rich cultural heritage and architectural brilliance. Completed in 1645, this 17th-century Imperial residence offers a breathtaking glimpse into the elegance and sophistication of traditional Japanese design. Renowned for its exquisite gardens and traditional teahouses, the villa captivates visitors with its harmonious blend of nature and architecture. A visit to this iconic site promises an immersive experience into the world of Japan's Imperial Family, where tradition and beauty intertwine seamlessly. Whether you're a history enthusiast or simply seeking tranquility, the Katsura Imperial Villa is a must-see destination that offers a serene escape into the past, making it an unforgettable highlight of any trip to Kyoto.

Katsuramisono, Nishikyo Ward, Kyoto, 615-8014, Japan

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4.9 /5

26K+ reviews

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Andrew *****

1 Jul

Amy did is awesome job of getting the group to the sites we wanted to see. she was helpful in explaining the different areas we went as well as taking pictures if you asked her.

Gunadi **************

1 Jul

nice hotel and strategic places, very near to Kyoto station only one station and the park view very beautiful

Mary *****

1 Jul

Such a peaceful and scenic ride—perfect for relaxing and soaking in Arashiyama's natural beauty!

클룩 회원

30 Jun

I usually prefer independent travel, so I was reluctant to take a package tour. The schedule is tight, there is little freedom, and sometimes a semi-mandatory shopping schedule is included, so I have always chosen to plan my trips on my own. However, this trip was my boyfriend's last trip to Japan before he leaves for the US for a few years, so I put a lot of thought into the planning and wanted an efficient and satisfying schedule. Then, I found out about the Kyoto bus tour of 'Travel One Bowl' on the internet, and since the reviews from actual users were all positive, I made a reservation with half doubt. To conclude, I was very satisfied. I was able to enjoy the beautiful bamboo forest of Arashiyama, Togetsu-kyo Bridge, the dazzling Kinkaku-ji Temple, Fushimi Inari with its numerous red torii gates, and Kiyomizu-dera Temple, the symbol of Kyoto. I was able to leisurely enjoy Kyoto's key attractions with ample time. There was almost no time error in the schedule, so I was able to enjoy the trip as planned, which was especially satisfying. Even though I went without any information, the route and explanation were clear, so I was able to tour without any confusion. When I told the guide that the air conditioning seemed weak, he took immediate action and kept checking to see if there were any inconveniences, so I was impressed by the service. The bus was comfortable, the guide was cheerful and kind, and the photo shoots at each photo spot were really sincere. He also told me the best photo spots, so I got a lot of great photos. This was my first time with such a kind guide. Thank you, guide Jeong Sang-hoon! I had no idea where to eat in a new place, but he gave me detailed information about good restaurants, cafes, and souvenirs, so it was much easier and more informative. Thanks to him, I was able to make really precious memories with my boyfriend, and it was a trip full of warm memories. Next time I go to Japan, I want to go to Fukuoka, and I want to use Travel One Bowl again. Thank you for creating memories that will last a long time.

Klook客路用户

30 Jun

I hope you all come to take this photo. The service is great, there are so many choices, the clothes are all new, neat and beautiful, and basically any style can be satisfied. Every clerk has a very good service attitude.

전 **

30 Jun

"You know <Travel One Bowl>? I'm Inma! <Travel One Bowl>, so I ate! I went to a cafe! I went shopping! I went sightseeing! I did everything!" It was really the best trip! Kyoto is a place where it's hard to move between tourist spots. If you just stay in Kyoto for a few days, you can enjoy the atmosphere of Kyoto and take your time sightseeing... But what if!!! If you come to Osaka and can't miss Kyoto and stop by for a day, there are so many things you want to see, but you have to wait for the bus. What about a taxi? Oh~ It's so expensive... Especially these days, when the temperature is over 30 degrees and it rains sometimes, it's just stressful. That's what the weather was like when we actually visited... If you brought adults or have children, it would be even more chaotic... In times like this! "Travel One Bowl"'s Kyoto tour was the perfect product. The important explanations are finished on the bus! We only go to the important points together, and from then on, you're free. It was a program that only combined the advantages of a real package and independent travel. Of course, because of the nature of the package, you may not feel like you have enough time... But "Travel One Bowl" has the longest stay time at each tourist site compared to other Kyoto tours. Thanks to that, we were able to take a lot of pictures, eat at a restaurant we had already chosen, visit a cafe twice, and go around cute shops to buy furikake and souvenirs, and eat famous snacks~ Even if you don't have a restaurant or cafe in mind, the guide will give you a map and send you a list of recommendations via KakaoTalk, so don't worry~ If you say, "I'm hot and tired, I want to rest," you can wait in the air-conditioned bus until the other travelers come back~ Also, at Arashiyama and Kinkaku-ji, they took pictures with the camera you brought, and they said they would edit them and send them to you~ They even sent you a Japanese fortune-telling translation via KakaoTalkㅋㅋㅋ → Thank you to our guide, Seo Chae-hee, for doing all this! I really recommend it!

Sandra ***********

30 Jun

Unfortunately, it rained heavily on the day of travel, but the ride on the Sagano Romantic Train was still unforgettable. The entire train crew bids you a sweet farewell upon departure, and the conductor tells you all about the route. There's a great little museum and café at the station, and all in all, the ride is highly recommended; the river and the forests are beautiful.

클룩 회원

30 Jun

It's June 30th. I went on a tour with Noh Min-ho as a guide. It's absolutely impossible to do this without a tour in such hot weather. The guide's detailed explanations and ample viewing time were great. The guide's guide to the meals and tea house were also good. I had the very cheap 950 yen cold udon with egg and ma, and it was so delicious. I really appreciate the sense of taking a few pictures for me. My wife really liked Kiyomizu-dera Temple. The temple itself was nice, but it was also appealing to be able to see many places near it. I will recommend this to my friends who couldn't come with me because their reservation schedules didn't match~ Kyoto~! If you want to save time and see everything, go with the Travel One Bowl Tour~~!!

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Remarkable Landmarks and Must-Visit Sights

Japanese Garden

Step into a living masterpiece at the Katsura Imperial Villa's Japanese Garden, where every turn reveals a new vista of natural beauty. This garden is a harmonious blend of art and nature, designed to reflect the changing seasons with its meticulously arranged plants, serene water features, and inviting stone pathways. Whether you're a nature lover or a photography enthusiast, this garden offers a tranquil escape that will captivate your senses and inspire your soul.

Traditional Teahouses

Discover the serene elegance of the Traditional Teahouses scattered throughout the Katsura Imperial Villa. Each teahouse offers a unique vantage point to admire the surrounding landscape, making them perfect spots to pause and soak in the villa's tranquil ambiance. Experience the artistry of Japanese tea ceremonies in these beautifully crafted spaces, where the simplicity of design meets the profound beauty of nature.

The Shoin

Explore the architectural splendor of The Shoin at Katsura Imperial Villa, where history and elegance converge. Comprising the Old, Middle, and New Palaces, this area showcases the quintessential shoin style architecture. From the moon-viewing platform of the Old Shoin to the structured elegance of the New Palace, each section offers a unique glimpse into Japan's rich cultural heritage. Adorned with tatami mats, shoji screens, and exquisite ink paintings, The Shoin provides a serene setting for both informal gatherings and royal visits.

Cultural and Historical Significance

The Katsura Imperial Villa, constructed in the early to mid-seventeenth century by the Hachijo-no-Miya family, is a stunning example of Japanese architecture and garden design. It beautifully embodies the cultural values and aesthetic principles of the Edo period, making it a significant historical landmark. Recognized as an Important Cultural Property of Japan, the villa reflects the cultural practices and architectural advancements of the Heian period. Its design, which incorporates traditional Japanese and Zen Buddhist principles, offers a fascinating insight into the lifestyle of Japan's aristocracy and the elegance of the Edo period.

Architectural Influence

The minimalist and orthogonal design of the Katsura Imperial Villa has left a lasting impression on modernist architects around the world, including the likes of Bruno Taut and Le Corbusier. This architectural gem extends its influence beyond Japan, serving as a model for innovation and cultural appreciation in architecture.

Local Cuisine

While exploring the villa, treat yourself to Kyoto's renowned culinary delights. Enjoy traditional kaiseki meals, sushi, and tempura, each dish crafted with seasonal ingredients and infused with Kyoto's unique flavors. It's a culinary journey that perfectly complements the cultural experience of visiting the Katsura Imperial Villa.

Katsura Imperial Villa