Katsura Imperial Villa

Historical place · Kyoto-shi

Katsura Imperial Villa

Historical place · Kyoto-shi

Katsuramisono, Nishikyo Ward, Kyoto, 615-8014, Japan

Highlights

Katsura Imperial Villa, a breathtaking 17th-century treasure in Kyoto, boasts a stunning classical garden that reflects the pinnacle of Japanese design.

Katsuramisono, Nishikyo Ward, Kyoto, 615-8014, Japan Get directions

kyoto-gosho.kunaicho.go.jp

@afar

"As soon as you get to Kyoto, go to the Imperial Household Agency and see if there are any spots left for touring Katsura Rikyu, arguably the most beautiful house in Japan. It’s actually easier to get in as a foreigner than as a Japanese citizen, but either way, admissions are limited—which means you can enjoy this astounding villa without a crowd. Built in the early 1600s, the villa is a collection of classic Japanese buildings, with interiors resplendent with polished wood, shojis, tatamis and fusumas (painted, movable wall screens), and surrounded by a garden that was so meticulously art-directed that scouts were sent around the country to find identical stones to line the pond. If you’ve ever marveled at Japanese design, this is the most perfect example."

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H O

Google

You need to bring a passport, and plan to wait up to an hour as tours are only at set times. The are is beautiful to walk around with some nearby shrines in walking distance for while you wait. Absolutely worth the time. The tour is interesting and well paced. We've been in both summer and winter, in my opinion it is better in winter only because of the temperature. The full hour-plus tour does have a few places to sit along the way, but the groups move along fairly quickly so you won't get to much shelter from the sun if you are there in summer.

Ayumi

Google

Even early in the morning, you’ll find people already lining up—since tickets are only available on the day, it’s best to arrive early to secure yours. You can enjoy breathtaking scenery that changes with the seasons, each view as beautiful as a painting. The meticulously maintained gardens reflect expert craftsmanship and Kyoto’s spirit of hospitality. It’s a living garden you can appreciate in any season, in any weather.

Tee Ponsukcharoen

Google

Beautiful place worth advance booking and travel to see this imperial palace specialized in watching the moon! Even if we can't check out the place at night except some special occasions, the palace is beautiful in a broad daylight. The guide tour really helps brining out the artistic wisdom from every little detail. I had such a good experience that I want to come and see the moon on those special occasions!

peter peter

Google

You have to register in advance online with your passport. You can not just go there and run around the garden. After you register, they will check your registration for a few days, and then you will get a ticket. You have to pay the ticket in the villa for 1000 yen. But it is all worth it. The garden is really beautiful. You get a 1 hour tour for the garden and a lot of information in English. You can not move freely in the garden. After the tour ends you have to go and the next group will go through the garden. It is a but outside the city, but I highly recommend going to the villa if you are in kyoto.

Jeffrey Char

Google

Enduring a cold, windy afternoon was a small price to pay for the breathtaking experience of Katsura Imperial Villa. The garden's exquisite design and immaculate upkeep are remarkable. Advance reservations are necessary, but the visit is undeniably worthwhile.

星野浩

Google

Very quiet, beautiful Japnese Garden for ancient imperial family. You need to book a tour to visit here.

Will LL

Google

Katsura Imperial Villa is a stunning example of Japanese architecture and garden design. Every detail, from the teahouses to the stone paths, reflects refined Edo-period aesthetics. The free guided tour was professional, detailed, and conducted in fluent English, enhancing the experience. Reservations are required, but it’s a must-visit for those who appreciate history, architecture, and serene landscapes.

Rory Rosszell

Google

This is certainly one of the most beautiful Japanese gardens I have ever seen (and I have visited many!). However, unlike most, because the Imperial family occasionally visits, reservations and guided tours are mandatory. It is impeccably kept, and well worth a visit. You just need to plan ahead. Reservations can be made online.