Shugaku-in Rikyu（修学院離宮）
Kyoto’s Imperial Garden Retreat with Spectacular Borrowed Scenery
Shūgaku-in Rikyū is a unique imperial garden in Kyoto, featuring three separate gardens rather than a single cohesive layout. These gardens are connected by scenic gravel paths that wind through rice fields and farmland, creating a serene contrast to Kyoto’s more formal palace grounds.
In the mid-17th century, Emperor Go-Mizunoo commissioned the gardens as a private retreat. He designed them himself, drawing on his deep appreciation of art, poetry, and architecture. Although the emperor had no political power at the time, he actively contributed to the garden’s design, continuing the legacy of Sentō Gosho, where he had previously collaborated with garden master Kobori Enshū. Although Enshū had passed away by 1647, his aesthetic principles clearly shaped the overall layout and feel of Shūgaku-in.
The three gardens—Lower, Middle, and Upper—each offer a distinct experience. Most visitors agree that the Upper Garden is the most breathtaking, especially in autumn, when the borrowed scenery (shakkei, 借景) of the surrounding mountains glows with vibrant reds, yellows, and oranges.
Because Shūgaku-in lies in Kyoto’s northeastern hills, its atmosphere feels far removed from the city. The surrounding agricultural land and panoramic views contribute to the site’s peaceful character.
Access is only possible through guided tours, which are free of charge. You can apply through the Imperial Household Agency Office in Kyoto or online at their official website. A limited number of same-day tickets are available from 11:00 AM, issued on a first-come, first-served basis.
Read more in our eBook!
Shūgaku-in Rikyū Garden Guide
This eBook explores Shūgaku-in Rikyū, a rare imperial garden retreat in Kyoto with three separate gardens linked by rural paths and rice fields.
Ideal for garden lovers, history enthusiasts, and cultural travelers.
Learn more before your visit—or revisit from home.
Gallery
Directions
How to get to the garden
The easiest way to get to the Shūgaku-in Imperial Villa is to take the city bus number 5 to the stop Shūgaku-in Rikyu Michi. From there, walk 15 min in eastern direction.
Address
- EN: Shugakuin Yabusoe, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture 606-8052
- JP: 〒 606-8052 京都府京都市左京区修学院藪添
Opening times
- A reservation is needed. Guided tours only.
- Time Slots: 9:00・10:00・11:00・13:30・15:00 (Japanese tour, Passport or ID required)
- Closed on Modays except the Monday is a national holiday.
- Closed on Tuesday if the previous Monday was a national holiday.
- Closed at the end of the year: December 28 - January 4.
See the opening calendar and visit the official website for online application.
Admission fee
- Free
- Children under 18 are not allowed! (This includes newborns in baby carriers.)
Facilities & Accessibility
- Multilingual Audioguides available
- Lockers are available for small luggage
- Multipurpose toilets available
- The garden is not barrier-free.
Best time to visit
- In summer for the rice fields.
- End of November/ Beginning of December for autumn leaves.
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