Shirakawa-in Garden（白河院庭園）

Step Into Serenity at Shirakawa-in Garden

Tucked away in Kyoto’s peaceful Higashiyama district, Shirakawa-in Garden offers a rare blend of imperial history and modern elegance. While the garden belongs to a high-end ryokan (traditional Japanese inn), its historical roots run deep—stretching back to the early Heian period (794–1185). This land once hosted aristocratic villas, including one owned by Emperor Shirakawa (1053–1129). After abdicating the throne at age 44, he became a monk and continued to wield political influence from this very spot for another 41 years as a cloistered emperor.

The garden you see today was beautifully restored in the early 20th century by Ogawa Jihei VII, also known as Ueji, a renowned landscape designer responsible for many iconic Kyoto gardens. Unlike sprawling temple grounds, Shirakawa-in Garden is compact, yet artfully composed. It features a strolling-style layout with a small pond at its heart, surrounded by carefully pruned shrubs and seasonal plants.

Tucked into the southeastern corner stands a traditional tea house, which adds a gentle architectural counterpoint to the natural beauty. From every angle, the garden reveals a carefully framed view—a testament to Ueji’s mastery of spatial harmony.

Though not widely known to tourists, Shirakawa-in Garden is just a short walk from landmarks like Heian-jingu and Nanzen-ji. This makes it an ideal stop for travelers looking to escape the crowds and soak in a quieter, more refined atmosphere. Whether you’re staying at the ryokan or simply passing through, the garden invites a moment of calm and contemplation.

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Gallery

Directions

How to get to the garden

Shirakawa-in is situated on the north side of the Kyoto Zoo. Take the city bus number 5, 57, 32 or 100 to Doubutsu-en-mae (動物園前 – Kyoto Zoo). From there walk north. When you can see the big Heian Shrine to your left, turn right and follow the street. Shirakawa-in is to your left side. View Google Map (Google Website)

Address

JP: 〒606-8333　京都市左京区岡崎法勝寺町16
EN: Kyōto, Sakyō-Ku, Hōshōji-chō 16
Telephone: 075-761-0201

Opening times

Daytime

Admission fee

free Please ask the Hotel staff before entering the garden when you do not stay at the hotel!

Facilities & Accessibility

Traditional Ryokan (Shirakawa-in): The garden is part of a high-end Japanese inn, offering accommodation and traditional hospitality.
Tea House: A small tea house is located in the southeast corner of the garden.
Garden Viewing: Accessible to staying guests, and occasionally open to non-guests (best to call ahead).
Restrooms: Available inside the ryokan for guests.
Shoes-Off Area: Indoor areas may require removal of shoes.
Wheelchair Access: Limited due to traditional architecture and gravel paths; garden is mostly flat but may have small steps and uneven surfaces.

Best time to visit

Spring (March–May): Camellias and early greenery create a fresh, vibrant scene.
Summer (June–August): Lush foliage surrounds the shaded garden paths and pond.
Autumn (October–November): Maples around the garden glow in red and gold — arguably the best time to visit.
Winter (December–February): Snow-dusted moss and stone add a serene, minimal beauty.