Discover Kyoto’s Japanese Gardens: Exclusive & Lesser-Known Gems in Japan

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Main Points

  • The Adachi Museum of Art in Yasugi is home to a garden that is considered the best in Japan, seamlessly blending art and nature.

  • Shugakuin Rikyu Imperial Villa in Kyoto is a strolling garden that uses ‘borrowed scenery’ to enhance its grandeur.

  • Katsura Rikyu in Kyoto is a historic villa with strolling gardens and traditional teahouses.

Kyoto Gardens You Must Visit

1) Adachi Museum of Art, Yasugi

“Adachi Museum of Art – Matsue Travel”

The Adachi Museum of Art isn’t just a place to appreciate the beautiful works of art on display inside. This garden is a living work of art, with each season bringing a fresh and vibrant array of colors. The museum’s founder, Zenko Adachi, felt that a garden should be appreciated in the same way one would appreciate a painting, and the meticulous design of the landscape here truly embodies this belief.

“Adachi museum garden ranked Japan’s …”

2) Shugakuin Rikyu Imperial Villa, Kyoto

“Shugaku-in Imperial Villa Garden”

In the cultural epicenter of Japan, Kyoto, you will find the Shugakuin Rikyu Imperial Villa. This imperial property consists of three distinct gardens, each providing a unique interpretation of a strolling garden. The villa’s gardens are an excellent example of ‘borrowed scenery’ (‘shakkei’), where the nearby landscapes are integrated into the garden view, giving the impression of continuous nature.

The Splendor of Royal Gardening and ‘Borrowed Scenery’

Upon strolling through Shugakuin Rikyu, you’ll see how the far-off mountains appear to be an extension of the garden itself. This is not a coincidence. The garden’s creators employed the ‘borrowed scenery‘ method to make the garden seem larger than it is, providing an illusion of endlessness.

“Shugaku-in Imperial Villa Garden”

3) Katsura Rikyu (Katsura Imperial Villa), Kyoto

“Katsura Imperial Villa and Garden – The …”

The Katsura Rikyu, or Katsura Imperial Villa, is another must-see in Kyoto. It’s often considered a masterpiece of Japanese architecture and garden design. The strolling gardens are dotted with teahouses and carefully maintained gravel paths, encouraging visitors to take their time and fully appreciate the beautiful surroundings.

“Kyoto Katsura Imperial Villa – Kyoto …”

The garden of the villa embodies the Japanese philosophy of wabi-sabi, which appreciates the charm in simplicity and transience. The teahouses, though modest, are graceful and provide a space to relax and ponder on the fleetingness of existence.

4) Saiho-ji (Kokedera or Moss Temple), Kyoto

“Moss Temple, Kyoto, Japan: SAIHO-JI …”

Saiho-ji, also known as Kokedera or Moss Temple, is a Zen Buddhist temple in Kyoto that offers a unique garden experience. This temple is famous for its moss garden, a lush carpet of various shades of green that provides an otherworldly ambiance. The garden’s design centers around a pond, which mirrors the moss and trees, creating a tranquil and meditative space.

“Koke-dera Moss Temple”

At Saiho-ji, you’re required to partake in a religious ritual like sutra copying, which deepens the experience. This helps you tap into the spiritual side of the garden, making your visit not just a feast for the eyes but also a nourishing experience for the soul.

5) Nonomiya Shrine, Kyoto

“Nonomiya Shrine, Kyoto, Japan Editorial …”

Nestled within the well-known bamboo groves of Arashiyama, you’ll find the Nonomiya Shrine, a hidden gem that boasts a private garden of subtle yet deep beauty. This Shinto shrine has a rich history, having once been a place of purification for imperial princesses. Its garden is a testament to the quiet elegance of Japanese aesthetics, and is often missed by visitors who come for the bamboo forest.

“Kyoto: Arashiyama Bamboo, Temple …”

Visitors are invited to take a serene walk, sit and meditate, or simply listen to the wind as it whispers through the bamboo.

6) Rurikoin Temple, Kyoto

“Ruriko-in Temple, Kyoto, Japan”

Rurikoin Temple in Kyoto is another lesser-known gem that only opens its doors to the public during certain times of the year. The temple is especially well-known for its gorgeous autumn colors, when the leaves change into vibrant hues of red, orange, and yellow. The reflections on the polished floors and the lacquered tables provide a view that is simply breathtaking.

The garden of the temple is a sanctuary of tranquility and elegance, crafted to emulate the shifting seasons. The vibrant greens of spring and the burning hues of fall are mirrored in the pond of the garden, creating a captivating display.

7) Okochi Sanso Villa, Kyoto

“Okochi-Sanso Villa – My Kyoto Machiya”

Okochi Sanso Villa, once the residence of renowned samurai movie star Denjiro Okochi, has since been opened to the public as a garden, yet it still maintains a feel of privacy and exclusivity. The garden of the villa extends over the Arashiyama mountains and provides a sweeping view of Kyoto. The property features a traditional Japanese house, tea gardens, and a few small shrines.

“Okochi-Sanso Villa – My Kyoto Machiya”

Included in the entrance fee, guests can savor a cup of matcha green tea in the tea garden while taking in the stunning views. The garden paths take you on a journey through a variety of landscapes, from bamboo forests to perfectly pruned lawns. The villa’s blend of natural beauty and cultural history makes it an unmissable spot for those in search of a genuine Japanese garden experience.

8) Shisen-dō Temple, Kyoto

“Shisen-dō Jōzan-ji | Discover Kyoto”

Tucked away in the northeastern mountains of Kyoto, the Shisen-dō Temple offers a peaceful respite with its small but meticulously designed gardens. Once a scholar’s retreat, this temple has been a haven for those seeking a quiet moment away from the hustle and bustle of the city since the 17th century. The garden is renowned for its azalea bushes, which burst into a vibrant array of colors in the spring, and the soothing sound of water flowing from its bamboo water feature.

“Hermitage Garden – Kyoto – Japan …”

The azaleas are carefully pruned to create a wave-like pattern that echoes the mountains in the distance. The temple’s water feature, a deceptively simple bamboo pipe that fills with water and then empties, provides a rhythmic and meditative soundtrack to your visit. It’s a place that encourages introspection and a deep connection with the natural world.

Unveiling Japan’s Secret Gardens

The private gardens of Japan are a peek into the essence of Japanese culture, offering a deeply personal experience that public gardens simply cannot provide. These lesser-known treasures, ranging from imperial villas to intimate temple grounds, offer an opportunity to connect with nature on a profound level.

FAQ

What should I be aware of when visiting a private Japanese garden?

There are a few things to remember before visiting a private Japanese garden. First, honor the peacefulness of the garden. Keep your voice down, move gently, and be considerate of others. Make sure to obey the rules of the garden, which might include specific walking paths or restricted areas. Dress suitably for the weather and the surroundings, and above all, leave nothing behind. For more detailed insights, consider exploring zen garden design ideas to understand the philosophy and etiquette behind these tranquil spaces.

What is the procedure to visit private gardens that are not available for public viewing?

Visiting private Japanese gardens usually needs some advance planning. Many gardens need you to book your visit in advance, sometimes months before, especially those with restricted public access. You might need to request permission, join a guided tour, or even take part in a cultural event. Always refer to the garden’s official website or get in touch with them directly for the most current and accurate details on visitation arrangements.

When is the ideal time to visit these gardens?

When to visit Japanese gardens really depends on what you want to experience. Spring is known for cherry blossoms, and autumn for fiery maple leaves. But every season has its own appeal, from the fresh green of summer to the quiet stillness of winter. Some gardens may also have particular times of the year when they’re open to visitors, so always check ahead to get the most from your visit.

“Each garden has its own season, and each season its own beauty. Plan your visit according to what you are most moved by, whether it’s the delicate pinks of cherry blossoms or the vibrant reds of autumn leaves.” – A seasoned traveler’s reflection.

What cultural practices should I be aware of during my visit?

When visiting a private Japanese garden, it’s important to be aware of cultural practices and etiquette. For example, it’s customary to bow upon entering and leaving the garden. If you’re visiting a temple garden, you may be asked to participate in a ritual such as sutra copying. It’s also common to remove your shoes before entering certain areas, so be prepared for this. Observing these practices shows respect for the garden’s cultural significance and enhances your experience.

Do these private gardens offer interactive experiences?

Yes, many private Japanese gardens offer interactive experiences to help visitors connect with the garden on a deeper level. These experiences may include tea ceremonies, guided tours that delve into the garden’s design and history, or workshops that teach traditional Japanese gardening techniques. It’s important to note that these experiences typically require advanced booking, so be sure to ask about them when planning your visit.

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