Murin-an（無鄰菴） - Real Japanese Gardens

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 evident in both the garden and the villa.

The villa, which features painted walls, dark wooden rooms, and a paneled ceiling, is a rare example of Western-style architecture in a Japanese garden setting. The tea room attached to the Japanese-style wing offers a peaceful space to enjoy a bowl of freshly whisked Matcha while overlooking the garden.

Designed by renowned garden master Ogawa Jihee, the garden uses a technique known as shuzan (主山). In this technique, the Eastern Hills of Kyoto are used as borrowed scenery. This creates the illusion that the garden continues into the mountains beyond. A stream fed by Lake Biwa flows gently through the space, while wide lawns — likely inspired by English landscape gardens — offer a rare open feel for a Japanese garden.

The garden is especially stunning in spring and autumn. Visit in April to enjoy fresh greenery and the peaceful stream. If you visit in November, the fall colors are beautifully reflected in the water. These seasons offer the best views and mild weather for strolling.

Several seasonal events are held at Murin-an throughout the year, including tea gatherings and guided tours. For up-to-date information, please check the official Murin-an website (linked below).

Murin-an is located near Nanzen-ji Temple and the Philosopher’s Path, making it a perfect stop during a day of sightseeing in Kyoto’s Higashiyama district.

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Directions

How to get to the garden

Murin-an is in the neighborhood of Nanzen-ji and Heian-jingu shrine in eastern Kyoto. It is situated south of the Kyoto Zoo. Take the city bus number 5, 57, 32 or 100 to Doubutsu-en-mae (動物園前 – Kyoto Zoo).
When you get off the bus, walk south and cross the bridge, then go to your left, in eastern direction, following the Niōmon-dori (仁王門通り). Before Niōmon makes a right turn, there is a really small street to your right. Turn into that street and you will find a Murin-an’s small entrance gate to your left.

View Google Map (Google Website)

Address

JP: ３１南禅寺草川町、左京区京都市京都府 606-8437
EN: 31 Kusakawa-cho, Nanzenji, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto 606-8437

Opening times

Apr. – Sep. 9:00 ~ 6:00

Oct. – Mar. 9:00 ~ 5:00

Holidays: December 29th – December 31st.

Admission fee

600 Yen

On irregular days, different fees may apply (i.e., 900 Yen, 1000 Yen, 1500).

A reservation is required, please visit the official admission page here.

Facilities & Accessibility

There is a cafe, the space can be rented for special occasions, and a gift shop.

Visitors with mobility concerns are advised to contact Murin-an in advance or bring assistance if needed. If full accessibility is a priority, Kyoto Botanical Gardens or Kyoto Gyoen National Garden offer more accessible paths and facilities.

Best time to visit

The garden is especially stunning in spring and autumn.