A green sanctuary in the middle of the drab plain of Kyoto, the Kyoto Gyoen (Kyoto Imperial Palace Park) is Kyoto’s Central Park.
Kyoto Imperial Palace Park: DutchMen / Shutterstock.com
This park that surrounds the Kyoto Imperial Palace and Sento Gosho, is the green heart of Kyoto. Unlike the imperial properties it surrounds, the Imperial Palace Park can be entered free of charge and without any application procedure. It’s popular with runners, walkers, romantic couples, picnickers, plant lovers and anyone who just wants to escape the concrete and neon of the city. It’s criss-crossed with wide boulevards and narrower pathways. There’s a plum arbor on the west side of the park that bloom in early March, and a grove of spectacular shidare-zakura (weeping cherry trees) that bloom in late March and early April – when the latter are in mankai (full bloom), they are among the most spectacular cherry trees in the city (and the area doesn’t get as many crowds as other famous cheery blossom spots in the city). Even if you’re not in Kyoto in March or April, it’s well worth visiting the Kyoto Imperial Palace Park.
English address:
Kyoto Gyoen 3, Kamigyo-ku
Japanese address:
上京区京都御苑3
Opening hours:
24 hours everyday
Admission: Free
Non-smoking area: Yes
Nearest Transport:
1min walk from Imadegawa Station, Karasuma subway line.
Telephone:
211-6348
Website:
Official website (English)

Where Is This Place Located?
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Near To Here:
Kyoto Gyoen is located in Central Kyoto. See our complete list of things to do in Central Kyoto, including places to eat, nightlife and places to stay.
Kyoto Vacation Checklist
- For all the essentials in a brief overview, see my First Time In Kyoto guide
- Check Kyoto accommodation availability on Booking.com – usually you can reserve a room with no upfront payment. Pay when you check out. Free cancellations too
- Need tips on where to stay? See my one page guide Where To Stay In Kyoto
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- Compare Japan flight prices and timings to find the best deals
- If you're visiting more than one city, you might save money with Japan Rail Pass – see if it's worth itfor you
- A prepaid Suica card makes travelling around Kyoto easy – here's how
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