Katsura Imperial Villa

Katsura Imperial Villa: A Premier Japanese Garden Reminiscent of the Imperial Dynastic Culture

The Katsura Imperial Villa is recognized as one of Japan’s three most famous gardens, embodying the splendid culture of the imperial dynasty. Today, it is managed by the Imperial Household Agency, similar to the Imperial Palace and the Kyoto Imperial Palace.

The villa covers an area of approximately 70,000 square meters, 60,000 square meters of which are gardens. Free guided tours are available throughout the year.

Constructed in the 17th century, the Katsura Imperial Villa’s gardens are a culmination of the imperial dynastic culture of the time. The design is simple yet profound, free from any unnecessary embellishments, evoking a deep sense of spirituality. Many architects, including Bruno Taut, have praised its design.

Tours generally require advance reservations. However, a limited number of spots are available for Japanese-language guided tours on a first-come, first-served basis on the day of the visit. Please note that numbered tickets for these tours are distributed starting at 8:40 a.m., and it is necessary to secure one of these tickets to participate.

Basic Information

Location	Katsura Imperial Villa, located within Kyoto City Access: Hankyu Kyoto Line: 20 minutes on foot from Katsura Station Bus: 15 minutes on foot from the bus stop in front of Katsura Imperial Villa
Duration	All year round 9:00, 11:00, 13:00, 15:00, 16:00Free guided tours in Japanese are available. Free audio guide rentals in English, Chinese, French, Korean, and Spanish are also available. Japanese-guided tours start at the following times: 9:00, 10:00, 11:00, 12:00, 13:00, 14:00, 15:00, 16:00. In addition, guided tours in English are available five times a day, starting at the following times: 9:00, 11:00, 13:00, 15:00, 16:00. ※Closed: Mondays (or the following day if Monday is a national holiday), year-end and New Year holidays, and days when there is an event to be held.
Tour Details	Free Admission Guided tour takes about 1 hour.
Tour Type	General public viewing
Eligibility	Participants must be 18 years of age or older. Please note that individuals under 18 years of age, even if accompanied by family, are not allowed.
Maximum Participants	Groups are limited to a maximum of 4 people.
Reservations	Reservations can be made from 5:00 a.m. on the first day of the month that falls three months prior to the desired date of the visit. Reservation page: https://sankan.kunaicho.go.jp/register/month/5201?locale=en
URL	https://sankan.kunaicho.go.jp/english/guide/shugakuin.html GETYOURGUIDE: Kyoto: Japanese Gardens Private Customizable Tour