Aoi-den and Kasui-en（葵殿 佳水園）
Discover the two Hidden Gardens in Kyoto
Nestled in the scenic Higashiyama district, Aoi-den and Kasui-en are two exquisite Japanese gardens located on the grounds of The Westin Miyako Kyoto. These gardens are lesser-known gems, offering tranquil beauty and historical charm—open to visitors for free before sunset.
Aoi-den（葵殿）was designed by the famous Kyoto garden master Ogawa Jihei VII, also known as Ueji. This strolling garden makes skillful use of the natural landform. One of its highlights is a waterfall that drops 15 meters into a basin, fed by water from the Biwako Canal. It reflects Jihei’s signature style of integrating flowing water and elevation to create a dynamic, immersive experience.
Right next to Aoi-den is Kasui-en（佳水園）, designed by Jihei’s eldest son, Ogawa Hakuyo. Smaller and more intimate, this garden showcases Hakuyo’s refined and modern take on traditional design principles. Its name, meaning “beautiful water garden,” captures the essence of the space—peaceful, artistic, and in harmony with nature.
Visitors can enter both gardens freely during daylight hours. As they are located on hotel grounds, please maintain respectful behavior. Best visited before sunset, these gardens provide a quiet escape from Kyoto’s busy tourist spots.
“Beautiful water garden,” captures the essence of the space—peaceful, artistic, and in harmony with nature.
Both gardens—Aoiden and Kasuien—are remarkable examples of Kyoto’s refined landscaping tradition. Aoiden, created by master gardener Ogawa Jihei VII, features a dynamic stroll-style layout that uses the natural slope of the land. Water from the nearby Lake Biwa aqueduct flows down into a dramatic waterfall basin, creating a natural soundtrack of rushing water. Kasuien, designed by his son Hakuyo, offers a more introspective experience. Its subtle design choices and intimate pathways reflect a newer generation’s interpretation of classical Japanese garden aesthetics. Together, these two gardens offer a rare opportunity to witness the evolution of garden artistry within a single, serene location.
Gallery
Directions
How to get to the garden
Take Kyoto city bus number 5 from Kyoto station towards Yagura-soshajo-mae (岩倉操車場前). After 11 stops and around 30 minutes, get off at Jingu-dori (神宮道). After getting off the bus, walk 5 minutes in direction of traffic.
View Google Map (Google Website)
Address
- JP: 京都市東山区三条けあげ
- EN: Kyoto-shi, Higashiyama-ku, Keage, Sanjo
Opening times
Open until sunset.
Admission fee
Free (entry permitted before sunset)
Facilities & Accessibility
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Paths: Stone paths and some slopes; not fully wheelchair accessible
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Restrooms: Available inside The Westin Miyako Kyoto
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Dining: Hotel has multiple restaurants and a café
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Photography: Allowed for personal use; be respectful of hotel guests
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Note: As these gardens are part of a private hotel, please enter quietly and respectfully
Best time to visit
The best time to visit Aoi-den and Kasui-en is during the spring and autumn seasons.
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