I like Okochi Denjiro's films but have only seen about 10 of them so far. But even if you're not familiar with his work, I highly recommend you visit this scenic garden in Kyoto. It is at the end of hectic Arashiyama Bamboo Grove but the peaceful garden feels like worlds away. From the top you have a great view. Included in the entrance fee is a ticket for a matcha latte at the tea house. I think it's a pity that they serve a sweet latte and not a "pure" matcha but that's the only minor thing that bothered me. There's also a small house where you can rest on tatami mats and enjoy the garden view or do some calligraphy and a small exhibition about Okochi Denjiro. The garden is a truly beautiful place and one of the highlights in Kyoto for me.

These historic gardens were beautiful, peaceful, and interesting. Unfortunately we were there in February during a rainy day, but we loved the tranquility of the gardens, woodland paths and beautiful buildings despite the weather. I would highly recommend a visit to this mountainside spot during a trip to the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest.

These peaceful gardens next to the Arashiyama bamboo forest are a great break away from all the crowds. It costs 1000 yen per person to enter which includes a matcha tea, calpis or juice. As the tea & juices were self serve we ended up having multiple. Great value for the 1000 yen. The real bonus is that not many people are willing to pay the 1000 yen to enter, hence it becomes a lovely & quiet place to explore. Whilst the gardens didn’t have beautiful flowers & colourful plants in early June there are some great views of Kyoto & the Katsura River valley awaiting.