Kyoto Botanical Gardens is located north of the city centre near the Kamo River. They opened in 1924 and are one of the oldest public botanical gardens in Japan.

Covering more than 24 hectares, it features themed gardens, ponds, extensive lawns and a modern greenhouse with tropical plants.

It's peaceful, spacious and considerably less touristy than most Kyoto temples.

I most enjoyed visiting the greenhouses and taking a leisurely stroll in the beautiful backdrop of autumn foliage.

• 👉 When is autumn foliage in Japan?

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What will you see here?

The gardens are divided into several themed sections:

• 🌸 sakura in spring
• 🍁 bold autumn colours
• 🌿 traditional Japanese garden features
• 🌴 large greenhouse with tropical plants from around the world

The grounds are large and perfect for a slow stroll.

I was most excited about the orchid display in the greenhouse!

In the gardens, you'll find free toilets, lockers to store your belongings, or even refreshment stands.

Is Kyoto Botanical Gardens worth a visit?

✅ Yes, if:

• you want a break from temples and crowds
• you are in Kyoto for more than 2-3 days
• you are visiting the city in spring or autumn
• you are in the northern part of Kyoto

❌ Not likely if:

• you have only 1-2 days in Kyoto
• you want to see iconic sights
• you're not too interested in botany

💡 Alternative:

If you're looking for nature with a spiritual twist, consider the gardens at Ginkaku-ji Silver Temple.

Honestly: for most travelers, this won't be a priority. But as a quiet part of the day, they work great.

I liked the Shinjuku Gyo-en Gardens in Tokyo much better, for example, and personally I'd probably skip Kyoto Botanical Garden next time.

The most common mistakes when visiting

1️⃣ Include the gardens at the expense of the main sights on a short visit
If you're only in Kyoto for a short time, your time is probably better spent elsewhere.

2️⃣ Come in the off-season and expect a colourful spectacle
The gardens are at their prettiest in spring and autumn.

How to include the Botanical Gardens in your itinerary

The gardens lie north of downtown and combine well with:

• 🌳 S himogamo Shrine
• Kamigamo-jinja Shrine
• 🚶‍♂️ walk along the Kamo River

They are ideal as a quiet part of the day between visits to the busier sights.

If you're planning a northern city itinerary, check out our ' What to see in Kyoto' map.

Entrance fees and opening hours

• Open daily 9:00-17:00
• Admission 500 jpy
  • cash only
• Mondays may be closed
• Official website: pref.kyoto.jp/en

How to get there

The botanical gardens are easily accessible from several locations in Kyoto.

• Metro (Green Karasuma Line) - Kitayama Station
  • direction downtown or Kyoto Station
• Buses - KitayamaStation
  • Line 4 - direction Shimogamo Shrine, Kamigamo-jinja

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What to see around

Discover all the places to see in Kyoto.