Kyoto Gyoen National Garden

Park

★ 4.9 (26K+ reviews) • 342K+ booked

Nestled in the heart of Kyoto, the Kyoto Gyoen National Garden is a sprawling 65-hectare oasis that beautifully marries nature with history. This serene escape surrounds the historic Kyoto Imperial Palace, offering visitors a unique opportunity to explore lush landscapes and delve into Japan's rich cultural heritage. Established after the capital moved from Kyoto to Tokyo, the garden stands as a testament to the grandeur of Japan's imperial past. Open to all at any time, Kyoto Gyoen National Garden is perfect for those seeking tranquility, a picturesque picnic spot, or a leisurely stroll through time. Whether you're a nature enthusiast or a history buff, this national garden promises an unforgettable experience, making it a must-visit destination for travelers in Kyoto.

3 Kyotogyoen, Kamigyo Ward, Kyoto, 602-0881, Japan

Overview

Things to do

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4.9 /5

26K+ reviews

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Lesly *******

1 Jul

Booked a Ramen Cooking Class here in Kyoto. Mo Mo and Amir were fantastic teachers and very friendly people. Very much enjoyed and HIGHLY recommend for everyone that loves ramen to attend this. Ramen after the class was delcicious! 10/10 recommend!

Mary *****

1 Jul

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

Klook User

30 Jun

The 2 men that taught us the process of making ramen were amazing and so friendly, they made the effort to explain things step by step so it was easy to follow and bonded over anime and ramen. A unique and one of a kind experience, it was just my partner and I which made the experience more private and enjoyable. Time just flew

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.

reilly ********

30 Jun

I had so much fun walking around with a kimono on, it was hot but the kimono was comfy so it didnt iritate me much. They have a wide selection of kimono and the staff are so kind, they are so jolly and nice. The place is small but homey and comforting, everything is accesible. The location is near the Gion station and also the Yasaka shrine and other beautiful traditional places you can take pictures at, super recommend this place! Great for its price.

클룩 회원

29 Jun

This is my first time writing a review on Klook. I made a reservation at 10 AM on Sunday and went there, but it was quiet and they guided me quickly, so I finished choosing and setting up in 30 minutes. First of all, I liked that they let me store a certain amount of luggage! (We didn't know that and left it in a coin locker at Kyoto Station, but) They also lent me a small pouch bag, so I was able to carry my luggage without any problems. They explained to me well that I should wear a yukata instead of a kimono because the weather was getting warmer, and they only looked at the design ㅋㅋㅋ They kindly explained to me that it would be hot whenever I was choosing a kimono, so I was grateful🥹 Even though my hair was short, they put it up nicely, and they even lent me a fan, which was very useful. (You should bring your own parasol, the sunlight is really hot) Thanks to them, I was able to travel very nicely. I understood what they meant by everyone being kind. They explained everything one by one, and the person who did my hair was especially attentive, so I was really touched... . The hair is amazing... ., This quality for this price, and famous places like Kiyomizu-dera and Sannenzaka are not too far away. 15 minutes on foot? We had a nice yukata and walked around nicely. Oh, and it was nice that there were sizes for men up to 2XL. My boyfriend also wore it in a size that fit him well. Thank you. If I come to Kyoto again, I will definitely choose it again without hesitation!!

Yu ******

29 Jun

Sakura Kimono Store has 2 branches. We went to the wrong one, but the staff was still very polite and let us have a kimono experience there. The weather was very hot, so we chose yukata. The staff who helped us put on the kimono were very nice and helped us choose accessories. They made us look very beautiful/handsome. It is a store worth recommending.

Shen *****

29 Jun

During the 7-day 6-night free travel, I specially arranged a day to sign up for a group tour in Kyoto. The main attractions this time were Kinkakuji Temple, Kiyomizu Temple and Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine. The overall itinerary was all the attractions I really wanted to visit. I was super nervous before departure, after all, it was my first time traveling in this way, and I wanted to participate selfishly, but in fact I really felt great. The entire time control and itinerary arrangement were all very appropriate. I would like to thank our tour guide Xiao Fu (Alvin) 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟. During the trip, he explained the history of the attractions in Chinese and English, and shared many recommended restaurants, allowing us to use time quickly and accurately, and he would also remind everyone in the group of the meeting time and place in a timely manner. Our group had a large number of people and we took the bus, but Xiao Fu still cared about everyone's situation, whether there was anything they wanted to eat, etc. He was always willing to help. Especially when my son fell and injured both knees, Xiao Fu immediately went to buy disinfectant and dressings for us. I am really grateful, otherwise we might not be able to have fun. The child felt embarrassed afterwards and wanted to thank this big brother. We returned to Osaka at nearly 6 o'clock and had plenty of time to go shopping. After returning home, everyone felt that they had a fulfilling and happy day.

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Remarkable Landmarks and Must-Visit Sights

Kyoto Imperial Palace

Step into the heart of Japan's imperial past at the Kyoto Imperial Palace, a majestic site that once served as the epicenter of Japanese power. Spanning 27 acres, the palace grounds invite you to wander through ceremonial halls, elegant residences, and lush gardens. Imagine the grandeur of the old court style as you explore the famous Shishinden and Seiryōden halls, along with the emperor's living quarters. With free 50-minute tours available in English almost year-round, this historic gem offers an unforgettable journey into Japan's regal history.

Shusui-tei Tea House

Discover the art of tranquility at the Shusui-tei Tea House, a serene escape nestled within the Kyoto Gyoen National Garden. Open on select days, this charming tea house offers a unique opportunity to participate in traditional Japanese tea ceremonies, HAIKU, and YOKYOKU gatherings. By prior application, immerse yourself in the cultural richness of these time-honored practices, making your visit a truly enriching experience. Whether you're a tea enthusiast or simply seeking a moment of peace, Shusui-tei promises a delightful cultural journey.

Kyoto Sentō and Ōmiya Imperial Palaces

Venture into the world of Japan's retired emperors at the Kyoto Sentō and Ōmiya Imperial Palaces. Although many original structures were lost to fires, the exquisite gardens designed by Kobori Enshu remain a testament to the past. Enjoy a guided tour of the strolling pond garden, where multi-language audio guides enhance your exploration. These palaces offer a captivating glimpse into the lives of former rulers, set against the backdrop of beautifully preserved landscapes. It's a must-visit for those intrigued by history and the elegance of imperial Japan.

Cultural and Historical Significance

Kyoto Gyoen National Garden is a captivating destination for history enthusiasts. Originally a Court Nobles Residential Area during the Edo period, it was transformed into a national garden after World War II to preserve the Imperial Palace. This garden is a living testament to Japan's imperial past, with roots tracing back to 794 when Emperor Kanmu moved the capital to Heian-kyō. The Kyoto Imperial Palace, nestled within the garden, has been the site of significant historical events, including the enthronement ceremonies of the Taishō and Shōwa emperors. Despite being rebuilt multiple times due to fires and wars, it stands as a proud symbol of Japan's rich heritage.

Local Cuisine

While Kyoto Gyoen National Garden itself doesn't offer dining options, the surrounding city of Kyoto is a paradise for food lovers. Visitors can savor the exquisite flavors of local delicacies such as kaiseki, a traditional multi-course Japanese meal, and yudofu, a simple yet delicious tofu hot pot. Additionally, matcha-flavored sweets are a must-try for those with a sweet tooth. Nearby eateries provide a delightful culinary experience, allowing travelers to immerse themselves in Kyoto's unique and renowned cuisine.

Kyoto Gyoen National Garden