In the politically charged early 17th Century, as the Shogunate rose and the Emperor faded in power, the then Emperor Gomizuno bowed to the inevitable, abdicated the throne, installed a very young daughter as token Empress, and spent the next fifty years in 'artistic' pursuits. Among these were the design and construction of a very large 'retreat' in northeastern Kyoto.... More

The views from the garden (borrowed scenery) and beauty of the gardens and structures were magnificent. Try to arrive 20 minutes early to view the video that helps to explain the garden. There was an excellent audio guide for us English speakers and they were very courteous about our lagging behind to take pcitures. More

The highlight of Shugakuin is a spectacular view of the gardens from a hilltop pavilion. You must get permission to visit and will go through the garden with a guided group. Permission is not as hard to get as reputed if you go in person to the Imperial Household Agency by the Imperial Palace. In early October they offered us... More

Gorgeous. Possibly my favorite of the Imperial holdings in Kyoto. Because of the location outside of the urban center of Kyoto, it's much more spacious and quiet than the other gardens, and the views from the tea house at the top of the garden are unbeatable. More

The Imperial Household Agency runs free guided tours to show the grounds, gardens and buildings in this villa on the north east outskirts of Kyoto. The tour is only given in Japanese but I received an English language pamphlet that did a good job of explaining the stops along the way and what to look for. The thing that sets... More