Nezu Museum（根津美術館）
A modern museum with an elegant stroll garden in central Tokyo The Nezu Museum in Tokyo’s Minami-Aoyama district holds a prestigious private collection of Japanese and East Asian art. From calligraphy and ink paintings to Buddhist sculptures, ceramics, and textiles, its exhibits cover a wide range of artistic traditions. The museum’s origin dates back to […]
Kiyosumi Teien（清澄庭園）
A Meiji-Era Garden of Stones and Serenity in Tokyo Nestled in the Fukagawa district of Tokyo, Kiyosumi Teien is a tranquil Japanese stroll garden that seamlessly blends natural beauty with historical significance. Originally part of the Edo-period residence of the wealthy merchant Kinokuniya Bunzaemon, the garden later became the suburban estate of Kuze Yamato no […]
Kyoto Gosho (Kyoto Imperial Palace)（京都御所）
From Ancient Seat to Serene Garden The Kyoto Imperial Palace was the residence of Japan’s emperors for over a thousand years. From the Heian period (794–1185) until the end of the Edo period (1603–1868), this palace was the heart of the imperial court. However, after the Edo period ended, the Emperor (Tenno) and his court […]
Murin-an（無鄰菴）
A Meiji-Period Strolling Garden in Kyoto Murin-an (無鄰菴) is a beautifully preserved strolling garden from the Meiji period (1868–1912). Built between 1894 and 1896 by Yamagata Aritomo, it reflects a harmonious blend of Japanese tradition and Western influence. Although Yamagata admired classical Japanese gardens, he was equally captivated by Western ideas. This unique blend is […]
Gio-ji（祇王寺）
A Hidden Gem in Kyoto’s Sagano District Giō-ji is a peaceful temple tucked away in Kyoto’s Sagano district, close to the popular Arashiyama area. This small temple is famous for its lush moss garden, shaded by tall maple and bamboo trees. The quiet, dreamlike atmosphere makes it a perfect retreat from the city’s busy tourist […]
Kosei-in（廣誠院）
A Hidden Zen Gem with Serene Garden Views in Kyoto Tucked away in central Kyoto, Kōsei-in is a small but refined Zen temple of the Rinzai school. While it doesn’t attract large crowds, it offers an authentic and contemplative temple experience. Its quiet presence and elegant design make it a perfect stop for those looking […]
Namikawa-ke（並河家）
Namikawa-ke is Kyoto’s Hidden Cloisonné Treasure The Namikawa-ke Residence and Garden is today a small but fascinating museum dedicated to the works of Namikawa Yasuyuki, one of Japan’s most celebrated masters of cloisonné enamel. This historic residence in Kyoto was once both his home and workshop. After gaining international recognition at the World Fairs in […]