The Most Beautiful Traditional Japanese Gardens in Kyoto
![Combine a trip to the Golden Pavilion (above) with a visit to the Zen garden at the nearby Ryoan-ji Temple](https://cdn-v2.theculturetrip.com/20x11/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/f9n964.webp)
In the cultural capital of Japan, you can experience some of the most sublime and tranquil gardens in the country. Every shape, size and type is on display, from dry stone Zen gardens designed for peace and relaxation to gorgeous stroll gardens designed for the recreation of lords and shoguns. Ready to explore? Here are the most beautiful traditional Japanese gardens in Kyoto.
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1. Ryoan-ji Temple
Buddhist Temple
![Kyoto, Japan springtime at Ryoanji Temples pond.](https://cdn-v2.theculturetrip.com/10x/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/efcxe1.webp)
2. Ginkaku-ji Temple
Botanical Garden, Park
![Ginkaku-ji Silver Pavilion during the autumn season in Kyoto, Japan.](https://cdn-v2.theculturetrip.com/10x/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/drjjd9.webp)
3. Saiho-ji Temple
Park, Botanical Garden
![Autumn colours in the moss garden of Saiho-ji temple, UNESCO World Heritage Site, Kyoto, Japan, Asia](https://cdn-v2.theculturetrip.com/10x/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/pr15b0.webp)
4. Heian Jingu Shrine
Bridge, Shrine, Park, Botanical Garden
![Kyoto, Japan spring at Heian Shrines pond garden and special events hall.](https://cdn-v2.theculturetrip.com/10x/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/ewnbp7.webp)
5. Tenryu-ji Temple
Botanical Garden, Park, Shrine
![Garden near Tenryu-ji Temple in Kyoto, Japan](https://cdn-v2.theculturetrip.com/10x/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/2eap46d.webp)
6. Nijo Castle
Building
![Japan, Kyoto, Nijo Castle, garden](https://cdn-v2.theculturetrip.com/10x/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/axcja9.webp)
7. Nanzen-ji
Architectural Landmark
![KYOTO, JAPAN -18th November 2019: Beautiful japanese garden in one of subtemples of Nanzen-ji display autumn colours](https://cdn-v2.theculturetrip.com/10x/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/2ag9ynd.webp)
Set in the east of Kyoto, in the shadow of the lush Higashiyama Mountains, Nanzen-ji is one of Kyoto’s most impressive Buddhist temples; think multi-storied wooden structures, towering gates and a spectacular rock garden. Next to the Hojo, the former head priest’s residence, is the Zen garden, fringed by photo-worthy trees and boulders and regularly raked to perfection – a meditative process to watch if you catch it in action. After your visit, make for Junsei restaurant nearby for an epic tofu feast, overlooking a small but pretty landscaped garden.
8. Katsura Rikyu
Architectural Landmark, Park, Botanical Garden
![Katsura Imperial Villa (Katsura Rikyu) in Kyoto, Japan. It is one of the finest examples of Japanese architecture and garden design and founded in1645](https://cdn-v2.theculturetrip.com/10x/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/2ccbh89.webp)
A visit to this imperial villa, perched on the Katsura River, delivers an insight into what it would have been like to live as Japanese royalty in the 17th century. Everything looks out upon the tranquil garden, clearly the centrepiece – and most meditative space – of the grounds. A serene pond, arching maple trees and a pretty bridge make the whole thing atmospheric. As does the tranquillity – because you’ll have to visit on a pre-booked tour, you’ll really escape the Kyoto crowds.
9. Kinkaku-ji
Botanical Garden, Park
![The Golden Pavilion (Kinkaku-ji) of Kyoto, Japan.](https://cdn-v2.theculturetrip.com/10x/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/et27jn.webp)
Possibly the most famous sight in Kyoto, Kinkaku-ji – also known as the gold temple for the abundant use of metallic leaf on the exterior – attracts swarms of tourists, drawn to the blingy beauty and perfect mirrored reflection in the adjoining lake. Rather than rush to the main event, take time to appreciate the epic gardens in which the golden structure is set. Moss-covered stones, knobby mature fir and pine trees, plus ferns cropping out from rock walls are all worthy of your attention.
10. Murin-an
Botanical Garden, Park
![Japan, by Jigei Ogawa 1894-96, Meiji Period, Japanese landscape design](https://cdn-v2.theculturetrip.com/10x/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/e64t2r.webp)
Created by a 19th-century politician with a fascination for Western culture, this lovely garden incorporates some distinctly un-Japanese elements – a villa with dark-painted walls and panelled ceilings, and large swathes of lawn (probably an influence from Britain). Of course, it’s also very Japanese, with tea rooms on the grounds, outbreaks of moss and a rambling stream fed by Lake Biwa, the largest lake in Japan. The surrounding mountainous landscape only adds to the enchanting scene.
Ellie Hurley contributed additional reporting.