Shugakuin Imperial Villa

Shugakuin Imperial Villa (修学院離宮), located in the Shugakuin area of Kyoto, Japan, is a collection of exquisite gardens and buildings. Construction began in the 17th century as a retreat for the retired Emperor Go-Mizunoo, and was completed during the reign of Emperor Go-Sai. It stands as one of Japan’s most celebrated examples of a traditional imperial villa.

The villa is divided into three distinct sections: the Lower Villa, the Middle Villa, and the Upper Villa, each with its own unique garden and architecture.

• Lower Villa (下離宮): Centered around a large pond called Yokuryu Pond (浴龍池), this strolling garden features a small island with the Jugetsukan teahouse (寿月観).
• Middle Villa (中離宮): Features the Rin’untei teahouse (隣雲亭) and its accompanying garden.
• Upper Villa (上離宮): Boasts the Kyusui-tei teahouse (窮邃亭) and its garden, offering breathtaking views of Yokuryu Pond and the Kyoto cityscape.

The gardens of the villa are considered masterpieces of Japanese landscape design. They incorporate various water features, including ponds, streams, and waterfalls, along with meticulously arranged rocks, plants, and trees. The gardens are designed to be enjoyed throughout the year, showcasing different plants and flowers in each season.

The villa’s buildings are also integral to its design, showcasing traditional Japanese architecture. Many of the buildings are connected by covered walkways, allowing visitors to move between them while being sheltered from the elements.

Today, Shugakuin Imperial Villa is open to the public for guided tours, providing a unique opportunity to experience the beauty and tranquility of this important cultural landmark. Due to its status as an imperial property, access is limited, and reservations are required in advance through the Imperial Household Agency website.

Getting there

By Train

From Kyoto Station:

• Take the JR Nara Line to Tofukuji Station (about 3 minutes)
• From Tofukuji, take the Keihan Main Line to Demachiyanagi Station (about 10 minutes)
• From Demachiyanagi, take the Eizan Electric Railway to Shugakuin Station (about 7 minutes)

Total travel time: About 40 minutes, 650 yen

By Bus

• Take Kyoto City Bus No. 5 and get off at Shugakuin Rikyū-dō bus stop, then walk about 15 minutes

Details

Hours	9:00 AM, 10:00 AM, 11:00 AM, 1:30 PM, 3:00 PM
Admission	Free
Phone	+81 75-711-2051
Address	Shugakuin, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto, 606-8055, Japan