Top 10 Parks to Visit in Kyoto

Kyoto’s wealth of atmospheric shrines and incense-shrouded temples have rightfully earned it a reputation as the most photogenic city in Japan. Amid the vibrant red torii gates and towering pagodas, you’ll also find oases of green spaces where you can stroll, picnic, admire the foliage, or simply catch your breath between sightseeing spots.

Kyoto Imperial Palace Park

Best park for grand surroundings

Also known as the Kyoto Gyoen National Garden, the Kyoto Imperial Palace Park is located in the heart of the city. Its spacious grounds are home to the grandeur of both the Kyoto Imperial Palace and Sentō Gosho palace complex. Even without visiting these sites, it is worth strolling through the gravel paths, small ponds, and cherry trees. The park’s close proximity to attractions like Nijō Castle makes it a convenient addition to a day of sightseeing. If the weather’s good, grab some lunch from nearby Nishiki Market and have a picnic on the expansive lawns.

Kyoto Botanical Gardens

Best park for nature lovers

Spread out over about 60 acres in the north of the city, the Kyoto Botanical Gardens house an impressive 12,000 species of trees, flowers, and plants. The grounds are divided into sections, including a sunken garden, rose garden, and bamboo garden, along with a conservatory featuring a range of tropical plants from around the world. The sheer variety of flora means the park looks different in every season, making it a perfect spot for nature enthusiasts.

Maruyama Park

Best park for cherry blossom viewing

Located in the heart of the Gion geisha district near the colorful Yasaka-jinja shrine, Maruyama Park is an ideal rest stop during your sightseeing excursions. Explore pleasant walking trails, grassy picnic spots, and a scenic pond inhabited by serene koi fish. This park truly shines during the spring cherry blossom season, especially its stunning shidarezakura (weeping cherry tree), which is beautifully illuminated after dark.

Ryoan-ji

Best park for contemplation

Many of Kyoto’s temples boast intricate gardens for admiration, but Ryoan-ji stands out for its unique rock garden and peaceful walking spaces. The centerpiece, the tranquil Kyōyōchi Pond, is home to resident ducks, while a small shrine can be found nestled on an island that is accessible by a stone bridge. For a more meditative experience, it is best to visit early in the morning or just before closing time.

Arashiyama Monkey Park Iwatayama

Best park for wildlife encounters

Arashiyama Monkey Park Iwatayama, located in the serene mountains of the Arashiyama district, is perfect for getting close to primate pals. Visitors can purchase food for the monkeys or simply observe them as they play. A picturesque 10-minute hike uphill leads to the park, where the panoramic view over the city from the 525ft-high viewpoint is a rewarding highlight.

Heian Jingū

Best park for gorgeous scenery

The colorful Heian Jingū is a noteworthy addition to Kyoto, established in 1895 to celebrate the city’s 1100th anniversary. The shrine’s expansive gardens, covering approximately 355,210 sq feet, are divided into four historically influenced sections. With serene ponds populated by koi fish and turtles, these gardens offer an attractive retreat at any time of year.

Umekoji Park

Best park for families

Despite its proximity to Kyoto Station, Umekoji Park is often overlooked by tourists. This park serves as an excellent locale for families seeking a break from temples. With walking paths, plenty of picnic spots, and open spaces perfect for games and relaxation, it is also adjacent to the Kyoto Railway Museum, which is filled with interactive exhibits appealing to visitors of all ages.

Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

Best park for atmosphere

The Arashiyama Bamboo Grove is renowned as one of the most photographed locations in Kyoto, featuring magical pathways framed by towering green stalks. Although it can get crowded, an early morning visit allows for a more serene experience. Combine your explorations here with a jaunt to the nearby Ōkōchi Sansō estate, which offers sprawling gardens and a taste of traditional Japanese sweets.

Murin-an Garden

Best park for escaping the crowds

Part of an elegant villa constructed in the late 1800s by statesman Yamagata Aritomo, Murin-an is a tranquil garden that beautifully integrates the surrounding Higashiyama mountains into its landscape design. Stroll around streams, ponds, and waterfalls fed by Lake Biwa’s water, or savor matcha tea and traditional sweets at the garden’s teahouse. Particularly stunning in the autumn, the vibrant maple trees make this garden a captivating spot year-round.

Banks of the Kamogawa

Best park for walking and jogging

While technically not a park, the banks of the River Kamo serve as a popular outdoor venue for both locals and visitors in the city center. Offering wide walking paths ideal for strolling or jogging, the area is adorned with plenty of seating and open green spaces suitable for picnics. On warm evenings, the illuminated lanterns from nearby restaurants create a charming atmosphere, with the Ponto-chō district providing a particularly lively backdrop.