Katsura Rikyu（桂離宮）
An Edo-Period Masterpiece of Architecture, Tea Culture, and Poetic Garden Design
Katsura Rikyū (桂離宮), also known as Katsura Imperial Villa or Katsura Detached Palace, is one of Japan’s most important cultural treasures. Built in the early Edo period for Prince Toshihito, the garden reflects his refined literary taste and includes many references to the classic novel The Tale of Genji.
The grounds are famous for their harmonious integration of architecture and landscape, featuring the Old, Middle, and New Shoin (study and reception halls) and four remaining tea houses, each expressing different aspects of tea culture and aesthetics.
The strolling garden is rich in detail and variation, with stepping stone paths, stone lanterns, gates, wash basins, and traditional bamboo fences—all arranged with poetic intent.
The villa became a blueprint for Japanese garden design and sukiya-style architecture, influencing later generations of artists and architects.
Read more in our eBook!
Katsura Rikyū Garden Guide
This eBook offers insights into the design, symbolism, and history of Katsura Rikyū Imperial Villa.
Perfect for garden lovers, tea ceremony enthusiasts, and students of Japanese architecture.
Learn more before you visit—or revisit from home.
Gallery
Directions
How to get to the garden
Katsura Rikyu is located in Kyoto’s west. The easiest way to get there is to take the Kyoto City bus 33 from Kyoto station and get off at the “Katsura Rikyu mae” bus stop. You can also take the Hankyu Kyoto train until Katsura station and walk from there in 15 minutes in eastern direction.
Address
- EN: Katsuramisono, Nishikyo Ward, Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture 615-8014
- JP: 〒615-8014 京都府京都市西京区桂御園
Opening times
- Ever hour from 9:00 - 15:00 (Japanese tour, Passport or ID required)
- Every second hour from 9:20 - 16:20 (English tour for foreign visitors only)
- Closed on Modays except the Monday is a national holiday.
- Closed on Tuesday if the previous Monday was a national holiday.
Admission fee
- Adults: 1000 yen
- Children under 12 are not allowed! (This includes newborns in baby carriers.)
Facilities & Accessibility
- Visitor Room
- Lockers for small luggage.
- Multipurpose Restroom
- Katsura Rikyu is not barrier-free.
Best time to visit
- End of November/beginning of December for autumn colors
- Rest of the year except hot summer months for green moss.
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