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7 most beautiful Japanese gardens in Tokyo

Japanese landscape gardens don't just showcase seasonal beauty; they also seek to recreate an idealised version of nature

Tokyo is famous for its urban sprawl, but you're never far from some greenery amid the skyscrapers. There are spacious parks and verdant nature escapes within the city limits, perfect for enjoying the warmer weather. But Tokyo is also home to its fair share of beautiful Japanese gardens.

Garden design is an important Japanese art form with an intricate history partially rooted in Zen Buddhism. Elements such as ponds and stones represent both physical aspects of the Earth and abstract concepts relating to spirituality, whereas tea houses and stone water bowls add a scenic component to the space, making it more hospitable to guests.

Over time, Japanese gardens have evolved to serve different purposes, but the traditional concept of combining the elements of stone, water, foliage and man-made features has remained an integral part of creating these unique havens for finding solitude and admiring the four seasons.

Due to the asymmetry and meticulous approach to each garden’s design, no two are alike – which is apt given that they are also intended to reflect the transient nature of the changing seasons. Here are some of the most celebrated Japanese landscape gardens in Tokyo, which offer particularly fine examples of all the elements that make up a traditional nihon teien (Japanese garden).

RECOMMENDED: Rise above the crowds at these rooftop gardens in Tokyo

Hamarikyu Garden

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Hamarikyu stands out from other gardens in Tokyo in that it isn’t known for its weeping cherry blossom or maple foliage, but for its bright pink plum trees that blossom in late winter. This tranquil garden, once a hunting ground for the Tokugawa shogunate during the Edo era (1603-1867), now cowers in the shadow of the Shiodome development.

The garden’s main appeal lies in the abundance of water and the fact that it feels deceptively spacious, thanks to beautiful landscaping. Situated on an island, it is surrounded by an ancient walled moat with only one entrance, over the Minamimon Bridge (it’s also possible to reach Hamarikyu by boat from Asakusa). The focal points are the huge pond, which contains two islands (one with a teahouse) connected to the shore by charming wooden bridges, and a photogenic 300-year-old pine tree.

Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden

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Famous for its appearance in Makoto Shinkai’s hit anime ‘The Garden of Words’, the expansive Shinjuku Gyoen was originally a private estate before opening to the public in 1946. It boasts some of the most beautiful gardens in the city.

Each sector in the park has a different theme – there's a French garden, an English landscape garden, a botanical greenhouse and amomiji-yama (maple mountain) – to showcase each of the four seasons. As such, the park offers a different experience as the season changes, but it’s especially popular for hanami (flower viewing) gatherings during cherry blossom season.

While Rikugien is located in the metropolitan area of Bunkyo, this garden concealed behind walls feels miles away from the bustling city. Rikugien gets especially popular in spring as crowds flock to the glorious weeping cherry tree, which is lit up after dark.

Autumn is just as scenic due to the abundance of blushing maple trees. Nevertheless, permanent highlights to be enjoyed year-round include the Fukiage Chaya tea house, where you can enjoy a cup of matcha with wagashi (traditional Japanese sweets) for ¥850.

Kiyosumi Garden

Characterised by its large pond, Kiyosumi Teien features footpaths that were designed to take you on a walk through the garden’s waterscape, which is alive with glittering koi fish, turtles and birds. As beautiful as the boulders of Kiyosumi Teien are, their placement around the garden and its three islands are no coincidence.

Shipping financer and Mitsubishi founder Iwasaki Yataro used his steam ships to collect beautiful stones from all around Japan and decorated the garden with them. Large stepping stones called isowatari are placed in the shallower parts of the pond where you can admire the trees’ reflections across the water.

Koishikawa Korakuen

Despite being right next to the amusement park of Tokyo Dome City , Koishikawa Korakuen feels so peaceful that you almost forget that you're in the centre of a metropolis. The garden was first laid out in 1629. It’s now only a quarter of its original size, but it’s still beautiful, with a range of walks, bridges, hills and vistas (often the miniatures of more famous originals) that encourage quiet contemplation. 

Tonogayato Garden

This garden in Kokubunji has a storied history. It was established between 1913 and 1915 on the grounds of a villa built for the vice president of the Manchurian railway, Eguchi Teijo, and was later purchased by the founder of Mitsubishi, Iwasaki Yataro, in 1929, who added a tea house to the premises.

Tonogayato’s beauty lies in the diversity of its landscape, which features a waterfall leading to a natural spring. It's also renowned for its bamboo grove and forest, which is so lush that it’s a designated cultural asset of Tokyo. 

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While a little out of the way, Kamakura is worth the hour-long train journey from Tokyo for its historical shrines and temples. Houkokuji Temple, in particular, is known for its small but beautiful bamboo grove where you can enjoy a cup of matcha with Japanese sweets (¥600).

As you enter the forest, you’ll see three shallow caves that are said to be the resting place of notable Kamakura priests and samurai including Ietoki and Yoshihisa Ashikaga. The path leading up to the temple takes you through a zen stone garden famed for its karensui (dry landscape) with intricately raked gravel.

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• Japanese Gardens and Zen Gardens Around Japan

The appreciation of gardens has been a part of the culture for over 1000 years

Japanese garden spaces created with a focus on the flow of water .

For more than 1000 years, there have been many famous gardens throughout Japan, especially in Kyoto, which was the cultural and political center of the time. 

There are various gardens throughout Japan that utilize space, water, and sound among other things. 

The more you know about these characteristic and historic gardens, the more you will appreciate and enjoy them. 

Strategic use of space 

Japan’s ability to wisely use space never falters. Japanese gardens are meticulously designed to feel more vast than they actually are. Clever tactics to make this illusion possible include sudden changes in the direction or width of the path. Another tenant in this strategy is about developing perspective through various viewpoints of things such as buildings and bridges, as well as creating striking atmosphere changes by using the background. Combining these delicate visual strategies allows the viewer to feel as though the garden is much larger. Over the years gardens have been used as sites for cultural events with guests invited for things such as poetry and Noh performances. Have a look at this page for a list of famous Japanese gardens, as well as gardens by region throughout Japan. 

Emphasizing the flow of water 

The flow of water is often a central, critical part to the structure and atmosphere of a Japanese garden. Many gardens display an intricate path of waterflow or a very prominent feature like a waterfall or pond. A very famous and aesthetically impressive example is ​ Sanboin Garden in Kyoto. This garden is also well known for its​ 800 stones that work in conjunction with scenic ponds and a majestic waterfall.

Dry landscape gardens (Karesansui) 

While water is often a prominent part of Japanese gardens, some actually display no water at all. These dry landscape gardens use sand and stones to express the movement of water instead. Zen gardens as they are known overseas, were originally created and designed by buddhist monks as a practice to calm the mind and help with meditation. An immaculate example is ​Ryoanji Temple Rock Garden , which is a famous UNESCO World Heritage site. For more information on Zen Gardens, have a look here . 

Borrowing scenery (Shakei) 

“Borrowing scenery” is a method of making a garden look grand by indirectly using distant scenery or nature. 

You will often see a mountain in the background to accentuate the features of the garden in a particular view. A great example of the way that visuals can be used like this are the ​​ Tenryuji Temple ’s gardens that are surrounded by the beautiful scenery of the Kameyama and Arashiyama foothills. When visiting a Japanese garden, be sure to not only focus on what is right in front of your eyes, but also the surrounding scenery that makes the garden complete.  

Enjoying the sounds of nature 

Visuals are not the only feature that can be used to emphasize the beauty of a garden. Sounds, like falling water or rustling leaves, are often a part of the garden as well. Stone wash basins (for cleansing the hands before entering a tea ceremony room) offer the soothing sound of flowing water. Rustling leaves trace the movement of the wind, and also add a seasonal feeling when crunched by the footsteps of visitors. For more information on Japanese parks and gardens, have a look here .  

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10 STUNNING JAPANESE GARDENS YOU MUST VISIT IN JAPAN

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BROWSE OUR LIST OF 10 OF JAPAN'S MOST BEAUTIFUL JAPANESE-STYLE GARDENS!

Travelers can’t get enough of Japan’s scenery! Most of the archipelago experiences all four seasons, and there’s no better way to enjoy them than in a traditional Japanese garden. Beyond carefully pruned seasonal flowers and evergreen trees, gardens in Japan harness elements such as ponds, bridges, and stone lanterns to create remarkable sights. It can be tough to choose which one to visit, so here are our top ten gardens to help you get started!

1) KENROKUEN - ONE OF THE BEST GARDENS IN JAPAN

Along with Korakuen in Okayama and Kairakuen in Mito, Kenrokuen is one of the three most beautiful Japanese gardens in the country. According to Chinese theory, a proper garden should represent six essential attributes: spaciousness, seclusion, artificiality, antiquity, abundant water, and broad views. As you can imagine, this is no easy task, but Kenrokuen meets all of these standards. Strolling through the pathways, you’ll discover bridges, waterfalls, and teahouses typical of traditional Japanese aesthetics. From mid-February to early March , plum blossoms bloom right before the cherry blossom season in April. Other varieties of flowers grow in summer, and in the fall it’s a great place to see Japan’s autumn leaves. In winter , fresh snow blankets the grounds making Kenrokuen an incredible destination any time of year!

2) ASHIKAGA FLOWER PARK - TOCHIGI PREFECTURE’S GREAT TREASURE

If you want to take a day trip from Tokyo , don't pass up on the chance to see Ashikaga Flower Park . The seasonal flower displays of hydrangeas, pansies, tulips, and water lilies are all worth seeing. Walking through the grounds, you’ll also come across restaurants and shops selling plants and local goods. The park is distinguished for its one-hundred-year-old wisteria tree that's so massive a wood trellis has to hold up its branches. It faithfully blooms every May , drawing visitors from all over the world. In winter, the park puts on a light display using hundreds of thousands of twinkling LED bulbs. They shimmer from shrubs, along walkways, and dangle from latices to recreate what the park looks like in other seasons.

3) KINKAKUJI TEMPLE - ALL THAT GLITTERS IS GOLD

Kinkakuji , also known as the Golden Pavilion, is a Zen Buddhist temple in northern Kyoto. Shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu built it as his retirement villa, and according to his will, it became a temple when he died in 1408. Gold leaf covers the top two floors, which shimmer in the reflective water below. Visitors can stop for a photo-op across the pond before continuing through the rest of the grounds. Along the trails, you’ll pass by Kinkakuji before reaching the gardens, which retain Yoshimitsu’s 15th-century designs. Points of interest include the Anmintaku Pond that never dries up and statues you can throw coins at for good luck. Near the exit, you’ll see a small Japanese tea garden where you can indulge in a cup of matcha and traditional sweets.

4) TENRYUJI TEMPLE - TWO JAPANESE-STYLE GARDENS IN ONE SACRED PLACE

Kyoto’s astonishingly beautiful Arashiyama district permeates nostalgia with its machiya townhouses, expansive rice fields, and classic architecture. Tenryuji Temple is a World Heritage Site and a significant place of worship for Rinzai-Zen Buddhists. After exploring the buildings and memorial hall dedicated to Emperor Go-Daigo, you’ll head to the right of the exit to pass through the temple’s two gardens. The zen garden is on one side of Tenryuji’s Main Hall. Zen rock gardens exemplify the simplicity and elegance that are characteristic of Japanese gardens with raked gravel and stones. On the other side of the Main Hall, you’ll see Japanese-style landscaping that employs a central pond, rocks, and pine trees. In autumn, the surrounding Arashiyama Mountain comes alive when the Japanese maples turn red and orange.

5) KOKOEN - THE PINNACLE OF JAPANESE GARDEN AESTHETICS

Kokoen is a complex of nine types of Japanese gardens to the west of Himeji Castle , which opened in 1992. Although it’s a recent addition, it follows Japanese garden design principles from the Edo period. The buildings and backdrops are so authentic, television shows and movies set in the past often film here. Among the different areas, you can see a tea garden, a water garden, an evergreen garden, a bamboo garden, and a flower garden. Throughout the seasons, Kokoen offers diverse views of colorful petals, emerald trees, and fiery autumn leaves. Himeji Castle is also one of the best places in Japan to see cherry blossoms . As part of the celebrations, you can participate in a tea ceremony and watch Japanese court music recitals.

6) ISUIEN - THE BEST GARDEN IN NARA

Adjacent to Nara Deer Park, Isuien has two Edo period gardens. The first area you'll see dates back to the 17th century. A wealthy textile merchant commissioned the rear garden in 1899. There are tea houses scattered throughout the grounds and a small museum that displays ancient Chinese and Korean artifacts. Isuien is famous for using the Japanese garden concept of “borrowed scenery.” From the grounds, you can catch fantastic views of Wakakusayama Mountain and Todaiji Temple’s Nandaimon Gate. During spring and fall, Isuien’s cherry blossom and maple trees turn magnificent hues. Both seasons are splendid times of year to visit Isuien, but it’s still worth a trip in summer and winter as well.

7) GENKYUEN - AN EXEMPLARY GARDEN TO VISIT IN JAPAN

Built in 1677, Genkyuen was the lord of Hikone Castle’s garden. During the feudal era, it was common for nobles to entertain guests in landscaped gardens on their estates. Taking inspiration from Tang dynasty design elements, Genkyuen features a circular walking path around a central pond. Four small islands dot the water with bridges connecting them. From September to November, Genkyuen holds two nighttime festivals . In September and October , soft lanterns glow along the strolling paths, and you can listen to the gentle buzzing of insects. From mid to late November , spotlights illuminate the autumn leaves showing their brilliant colors against the dimly lit grounds.

8) ADACHI MUSEUM OF ART - WHERE ART AND JAPANESE GARDENS COME TOGETHER

Founder Adachi Zenko created this museum in hopes of expanding the world’s interest in Japanese art combined with his belief that “the garden is also a picture.” The six award-winning gardens that surround the museum total in 165,000 square meters, and you can only see them by entering the building first. They include the dry landscape garden, the moss garden, the white gravel and pine garden, the pond garden, and the Kikaku waterfall. The Adachi Museum of Art holds temporary exhibitions that complement the changing seasons. Throughout the year, you can see flowers, autumn leaves, and freshly fallen snow. The permanent exhibition is dedicated to twentieth-century Nihonga paintings by Yokoyama Taikan.

9) KORAKUEN - ONE OF THE MOST BEAUTIFUL GARDENS IN JAPAN

Feudal lord Ikeda Tsunamasa ordered Korakuen’s construction in 1687 to create a place where he could entertain guests. Over the centuries, floods and war destroyed the property, but thanks to meticulously kept records, it looks the same as it did upon its completion in 1700. Standard to Japanese gardens, it has a central pond and walking paths, but it’s unique for its expansive lawns and view of Okayama Castle. In early spring, the white petals of plum blossoms pop out before the blooming sakura trees in April . In autumn , you can also watch the leaves change colors. Visitors can rent audio tours to guide them through the winding paths, or slowly stroll and reflect on the natural beauty .

10) RITSURIN KOEN PARK - THE MOST FAMOUS HISTORICAL GARDEN IN JAPAN

Fans of the spacious Ritsurin Koen Park often argue that it deserves a spot on the list of the “three most beautiful gardens in Japan.” As you wander through ponds, hills, trees, and pavilions, you might agree. Inside the park, you can also enjoy facilities like rest houses, shops, and a folk museum. For additional fees, you can ride in traditional boats on the ponds, or take a break at the Kikugetsu-tei tea house. Ritsurin Koen Park’s ever-changing scenery is breathtaking any time of year. Japanese people say that the garden is a place where you can see “ ippo ikkei ,” meaning that it transforms with every step. You can enter Ritsurin Koen Park any day of the week, as it doesn’t close for holidays, but the opening hours change according to the seasons.

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Japan’s Best Gardens: Tokyo, Kyoto & Beyond

At their best, Japanese gardens are places of contemplation, and an escape from the frenzy of modern life, but for the short-term visitor to Japan, deciding which gardens to visit can feel a little hectic.

At worst, one ends up attempting to “do” as many as possible within a few days — which usually results in everything blurring into a single garden in your head. Trust me: It’s not a fun way to remember your holiday. The antidote to being “gardened out” is to choose your gardens carefully. Spend plenty of time in a few of them quietly observing, letting their qualities sink in.

Where, then, should you go? To help you decide, we’ve compiled a short list of excellent gardens in Tokyo , Kyoto , and other parts of Japan. Some are quite famous, others are relatively hidden gems.

Here’s a short list featuring many of the best gardens in Japan:

• Ginkaku-ji, Kyoto
• Katsura Rikyu, Kyoto
• Saiho-ji, Kyoto
• Tenryu-ji, Kyoto
• Daitoku-ji, Kyoto
• Nezu Museum, Tokyo
• Shinjuku Gyoen, Tokyo
• Kiyosumi Teien, Tokyo
• Koishikawa Korakuen, Tokyo
• Hama Rikyu, Tokyo
• Korakuen, Okayama
• Kenrokuen, Kanazawa
• Adachi Museum of Art, Matsue
• Isuien, Nara
• Mifuneyama Rakuen, Saga
• Ashikaga Wisteria Park, Tochigi

Kyoto Gardens

1. ginkaku-ji (silver pavilion).

Ginkaku-ji, or the Silver Pavilion, was conceived as a private villa in the 15th century. There’s much to appreciate here: the Sea of Silver Sand, so named for its appearance under moonlight; the charmingly named Moon-Washing Fountain; the lush, moss-covered foothills; and the ever-changing flowers and trees throughout the seasons.

Its World Heritage Site status has brought in visitors by the millions, but it still retains its charm. The secret is visiting when it opens at 8:30am, before the surrounding shops begin plying their wares.

2. Katsura Rikyu (Katsura Imperial Villa)

If you visit just one “hard-to-access” garden in Kyoto, make it Katsura Rikyu. Originally built for the Imperial Family, it’s considered to be one of the finest existing examples of Japanese gardens and architecture. Mirrorlike ponds, perfectly shaped trees and bushes, winding pathways — on this sprawling estate, there’s something to surprise and delight at every turn.

Visiting Katsura Rikyu requires joining a free tour conducted entirely in Japanese. You’ll need your passport when making an advance application; tour spaces are limited and are quickly filled. Audio guides are available, but my preference is to soak up the sights, unencumbered by constant chatter in my ear.

3. Saiho-ji (Kokedera, the Moss Temple)

In most Western countries, moss is something to be eradicated from gardens. Here in Japan, it’s embraced and actively cultivated. There’s no better place in Kyoto for moss-lovers than Saiho-ji.

Imagine lush velvet blankets of moss in all shades of green covering every hillock and stone you see. Leaves rustle with the wind in the cedars and maple trees around you, and the air is cool, fresh, and alive with the breath of moss. If you can, bring a magnifying glass to peer at the mosses up close.

Saiho-ji is a tricky temple to access. Reservations must be made in writing via return postcard, and can be sent only to addresses within Japan. But depending on where you’re staying in Kyoto, good hotel concierges may be able to assist. Saiho-ji is arguably best visited in June and July, during the warm, rainy season .

4. Tenryu-ji (Temple of the Heavenly Dragon)

Tenryu-ji began life as a private villa in the Heian period, making it one of the oldest temples extant in Kyoto. It’s especially loved in autumn for the stunning view of the central pond surrounded by maple trees, and there are chairs in front of the pond for a spot of seated contemplation. Of course, there’s more to explore and see on Tenryu-ji’s sprawling grounds — for instance, the lotus pond, which comes into full bloom in July.

A happy bonus on the temple grounds is Shigetsu, a restaurant serving some excellent Zen Buddhist vegetarian cuisine. If you have just one shojin ryori  meal in Kyoto, this is a great place to eat it.

The key to avoiding the inevitable Arashiyama crowds is to go early, ideally before the tour buses converge on the area. Try visiting Tenryu-ji at 8:30am when it opens.

5. Daitoku-ji

This Rinzai Zen temple near the charming Nishijin district is starting to see an influx of visitors beyond the usual groups of retired Japanese, and for good reason. Its history is fascinating (see: the tragic end that befell tea master Sen no Rikyu), and its many sub-temples, home to sublime gardens in various styles.

Koto-in is by far the most popular sub-temple, especially in autumn , for its canopy of maple trees framing the entrance. At other times of the year, it’s incredibly peaceful — one could almost fall asleep on the tatami mats here.

While Daisen-in, with its highly literary karesansui  (rock garden), availability of English-language commentary, and charismatic priest, is a popular sub-temple with visitors and very much worth visiting, I personally like Zuiho-in. With fewer visitors overall, it’s a restful spot for quiet contemplation.

Read more about Kyoto’s best temples and shrines .

Tokyo Gardens

1. nezu museum garden.

The Nezu Museum is well-known for its architecture (a stunning example of Kengo Kuma’s work) and the quality of its private art collection. Fewer people visit specifically for the gorgeously landscaped garden set into a small valley. This suits most of us just fine, as it’s a relatively quiet escape from Tokyo’s urban madness — especially on weekdays!

This garden is most popular in May, when the irises are in full bloom. Honestly, though, it’s worth visiting at any time of the year.

2. Shinjuku Gyoen

Makoto Shinkai fans will know of Shinjuku Gyoen as the setting for The Garden of Words , a lushly animated visual tribute to rain in all shapes and forms. It is exactly as beautiful as the film suggests.

It would be a shame to visit Shinjuku Gyoen just for the cherry blossoms . Visiting gives you access to a variety of gardens across a vast tract of land.

For starters, there’s a spacious, beautifully landscaped Japanese garden with a small river running through it, an English landscape garden, a formal French-style garden full of roses, and a greenhouse replete with amazing ferns and other subtropical/tropical plants. All this for a paltry JPY 200, right in the heart of Shinjuku!

3. Kiyosumi Teien

Though it’s a tad farther out east of Tokyo than I’d like, Kiyosumi Teien is one of my favourite gardens in Tokyo.

It’s especially fun in spring to watch birds here, and look at tadpoles wriggling in the pond waters. Bring a picnic lunch to the cherry tree grove — which has several tables expressly for this purpose — and follow with a spell on the bench overlooking the central pond, preferably with a good book in hand.

4. Koishikawa Korakuen

One of Tokyo’s oldest strolling gardens, Koishikawa Korakuen is one of the more traditional, formal gardens you’ll find in the city. Its calling card? The stunning maple trees reflected in the pond at the height of autumn.

There’s plenty in the way of famous Chinese and Japanese landscapes in miniature, using rocks to represent mountains and so forth. In terms of layout and garden experience, it can feel a little prescriptive: its network of walking trails leads you to a number of prescribed viewpoints around the garden. If that floats your boat, great; if not, it’s still pretty fun wandering around.

5. Hama Rikyu Gardens

A large Japanese-style garden surrounded by towering skyscrapers, a visit to Hama Rikyu gives you fun contrasting views of green and silver. Rather unusual here is the seawater pond, whose water levels change with the tide.

But the best reason to visit is because it’s the loveliest green space near Tsukiji’s Outer Market — and you can’t beat a stroll in a garden like this after gorging on sushi for breakfast. A cup of matcha at the teahouse makes a great post-breakfast digestif.

Gardens Across Japan

1. korakuen, okayama.

Regarded as one of Japan’s three most beautiful gardens, Korakuen is Okayama City’s calling card. While beauty is subjective, it’s hard to argue with this designation, especially after spending an hour or two exploring the grounds.

Few other landscape gardens have a well-preserved castle looming in the distance, and such spacious lawns — the latter most likely influenced by gardening ideas from the West. It’s a must-visit if you wind up in Okayama during your travels.

2. Kenrokuen, Kanazawa

Like most strolling gardens in Japan, Kenrokuen is gorgeous in all seasons. However, it’s one of the few that is loved specifically for its winter scenery, i.e., the sight of yuki-tsuri common to Kanazawa .

Ropes affixed to bamboo poles between the trees in Kenrokuen provide additional support to branches, preventing them from breaking under the weight of heavy snow. The contrast of white snow, fine networks of golden-yellow rope, and evergreen pines is absolutely stunning.

3. Adachi Museum of Art, Matsue

Not many gardens can claim to be the best in Japan, but this five-hectare landscape garden has held that title — bestowed upon it by the Journal of Japanese Gardening — uncontested since 2003.

Walking through the gardens here is like exploring a Japanese painting from the inside. Indeed, the entire landscape is tightly composed and each element meticulously maintained — not a single leaf out of place from each dome-shaped bush, nor a speckle of gravel outside its sea of silvery sand. The garden as viewed from the museum looks like an eerily perfect-picture scroll!

4. Isuien, Nara

Located just outside Kyoto, Nara can certainly be overrun with tourists. But a short walk from the crowds at Todai-ji brings you to the beautiful, tranquil Isuien, a Japanese-style garden.

Strictly speaking, it’s two separate gardens merged into one. The front garden has a villa and tea house, and the back is a strolling garden centered around a pond. But more importantly, it’s an inviting and very necessary escape from the crowds nearby.

5. Mifuneyama Rakuen, Saga

Saga Prefecture is not exactly top on the tourist destination list, but it should be for Mifuneyama Rakuen alone.

This garden is more like a huge park set into the side of a mountain that’s straight out of a Chinese landscape painting. During azalea season, the mountainside is festooned in shades of white, pink, and crimson. If you’re staying at one of the two luxury ryokan at the foot of Mifuneyama, so much the better (learn more about ryokans in Japan ).

Bonus: Ashikaga Wisteria Park, Tochigi

Located a little ways outside of Tokyo, this is not, strictly speaking, a Japanese garden. But there are few experiences more magical than walking through tunnels of lavender and periwinkle wisteria.

Slowly Savor Your Japanese Garden Visits

How to make the most of your garden visits? A few suggestions:

• Wake up early and visit before the crowds set in, especially if it’s a World Heritage Site.
• Where possible, find a spot to sit down and enjoy the view.
• Take it slow while you’re walking.
• Put the camera away for a moment.
• Take a breath, and let the garden find its way into you.

Further Reading on Japanese Gardens

Below are some excellent books by experts in the field of Japanese gardens:

• Judith Clancy, Kyoto Gardens: Masterworks of the Japanese Gardener’s Art
• John Dougill,  Zen Gardens and Temples of Kyoto: A Guide to Kyoto’s Most Important Sites
• Marc P. Keane, Japanese Garden Design
• Stephen Mansfield, Japanese Stone Gardens: Origins, Meaning, Form

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9 Breathtaking Japanese Gardens You Need to Visit

Japan, a country synonymous with timeless beauty and serenity, is renowned for its traditional Japanese gardens. These gardens, each a unique masterpiece of Japanese landscaping, offer an exquisite blend of natural splendor, cultural richness, and aesthetic sophistication. They’re not just gardens; they’re an integral part of the Japanese lifestyle, a place for contemplation and appreciation of nature’s fleeting beauty.

In this blog post, we take you on a virtual journey through eight of the most breathtaking Japanese gardens that you absolutely must visit. Whether you’re an avid gardener, a nature enthusiast, or simply a traveler seeking tranquility, these gardens will inspire and beckon you to the Land of the Rising Sun.

Table of Contents

1. Kenroku-en: A Gem Among the Three Great Gardens of Japan

Kenroku-en Garden, a prime example of Japanese landscape gardening at its finest, is located in the historical city of Kanazawa. The garden’s name translates to “Garden of the Six Sublimities,” referring to the six attributes considered crucial for a perfect garden: spaciousness, seclusion, artifice, antiquity, water sources, and panoramas.

Among Kenroku-en’s standout features is the Kotoji-toro, a two-legged stone lantern situated beside a scenic pond. Furthermore, the garden takes pride in housing Japan’s oldest fountain, which relies solely on natural water pressure. Additionally, the garden is home to the Karasaki Pine, a tree grown from a seed sourced from the Karasaki district by the garden’s creator.

Address: 1 Kenrokumachi, Kanazawa, Ishikawa 〒920-0936, Japan Hours: Mar. 1 – Oct.15 (7:00 – 18:00) / Oct.16 – Feb.28/29 (8:00 – 17:00 ) Early Admission Hours: 4:00 (Apr – Aug) / 5:00 (Mar, Sept- Oct) / 6:00 (Nov – Feb) Only Renchi-mon Entrance and Zuishinzaka Entrance are open. You must leave 15 minutes before the opening time. More Information: Official Website

2. Kinkaku-ji: The Sparkling Jewel of Kyoto’s Japanese Gardens

The Golden Pavilion, or Kinkaku-ji, stands as a must-visit Kyoto landmark and a symbol of the city’s lasting cultural heritage. Shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu originally built it in 1397 as a retirement villa, and it later transformed into a Zen temple after his death. Gold leaf adorns the top two floors of the pavilion, casting a dazzling effect that has entranced visitors for centuries.

Accompanying the pavilion is a garden from the Muromachi period. This garden, complete with a large pond, multiple islands, and stone bridges, embraces the natural landscape. As you navigate through the garden, the Golden Pavilion appears to float above the water’s surface, offering ever-changing views that enrich your exploration.

Address: 1 Kinkakujicho, Kita Ward, Kyoto, 〒603-8361, Japan Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (open all year round) More Information: Official Website

Read More： Top 10 Must-Visit Temples in Kyoto

3. Ritsurin Garden: The Quintessential Garden, Outshining Even the Three Great Gardens of Japan

Situated in Takamatsu, Kagawa Prefecture, Ritsurin Garden is a sprawling landscape garden that was originally built for the enjoyment of the local daimyo, or feudal lord. It took over a century to complete the garden, and its meticulous design is a testament to the skill and dedication of its creators.

The garden is characterized by its multiple ponds, teahouses, and the famous Nanko, or South Pond, which offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Additionally, Ritsurin Garden is also famous for its pine trees, which are carefully pruned and shaped to create a sense of depth and balance.

Address: 1-chome-20-16 Ritsurincho, Takamatsu, Kagawa 〒760-0073, Japan Hours: 5:30 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Special hours of operation: 5:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. (July 8th 2023) (Entrance to the park will be limited from 5:30 a.m. to noon.) More Information: Official Website

4. Koraku-en: Experience Tranquility in One of Japan’s Three Great Gardens

Okayama’s Koraku-en Garden, one of the “Three Great Gardens of Japan,” offers an elegant and expansive design. The local daimyo originally built it for relaxation and entertainment. Its broad lawns and thoughtfully planned vistas compose a calming and harmonious atmosphere.

Among the garden’s highlights is the Enyo-tei House, a traditional building that provides panoramic views of the garden and distant Okayama Castle. Additionally, the garden features a picturesque pond, a cozy teahouse, and a plum grove that bursts into vibrant pinks and whites each spring.

Address: 1-5 Korakuen, Kita Ward, Okayama, 703-8257, Japan Hours: March 20 to September 30 7:30 – 18:00 (last admission 17:45) October 1 to March 19 8:00 – 17:00 (last admission 16:45) More Information: Official Website

5. Tenryuji Temple: A UNESCO Heritage Site Enriching Japanese Gardens

Located in the Arashiyama district of Kyoto, Tenryu-ji is a UNESCO World Heritage site and an important Zen temple. The temple’s garden, designed by the famous landscape architect Muso Soseki, is a masterpiece of Zen garden design that has been meticulously maintained over the centuries.

The Sogen Pond at the center of the garden is surrounded by carefully arranged rocks, trees, and moss-covered banks, creating a serene and contemplative atmosphere. A path around the pond allows visitors to enjoy the changing views of the garden and the stunning backdrop of the Arashiyama mountains.

Address: Japan, 〒616-8385 Kyoto, Ukyo Ward, Sagatenryuji Susukinobabacho, ６８ Hours: 8:30am-5:00pm (Last admission 4:50p.m.) More Information: Official Website

6. Adachi Museum of Art: Blending Japanese Art and Garden Design

Situated in Shimane Prefecture, the Adachi Museum of Art is not only renowned for its collection of modern Japanese art but also for its award-winning garden. The museum’s founder, Zenko Adachi, believed that “the garden is also a picture,” and the meticulously maintained grounds perfectly embody this philosophy.

The garden showcases a variety of landscape styles, including a dry landscape garden, a white gravel and pine garden, and a pond garden. Each window of the museum acts as a frame, offering visitors a unique and ever-changing view of the garden as they move through the building.

Address: 320 Furukawacho, Yasugi, Shimane 〒692-0064, Japan Hours: 9:00-17:30 (Apr-Sept) / 9:00-17:00 (Oct-Mar) More Information: Official Website

7. Suizenji Jojuen Garden: A Tea Retreat Transformed into a Japanese Garden Oasis

Suizen-ji Joju-en Garden, situated in Kumamoto, began as a tea retreat for the local daimyo, Hosokawa Tadaoki. It encircles a spring-fed pond, adorned with carefully curated elements like stone lanterns, bridges, and a symbolic hill representing Mount Fuji.

Visitors can meander through the garden’s winding paths, leading to several teahouses and shrines. The lush greenery, rolling hills, and peaceful pond transform Suizen-ji Joju-en into a tranquil city oasis, inviting exploration and enjoyment.

Address: 8-1 Suizenji Koen, Chuo Ward, Kumamoto, 〒862-0956, Japan Hours: 8:30-17:00 More Information: Official Website

8. Isuien Garden: A Hidden Gem in Nara’s Array of Japanese Gardens

In Nara, the ancient capital of Japan, lies the Isuien Garden. This strolling garden, a true masterpiece of Japanese landscaping, is divided into two parts, each featuring a central pond and several teahouses. The borrowed scenery technique, or “shakkei,” is employed here, with the nearby Todai-ji Temple and Mount Wakakusa seamlessly incorporated into the garden’s design.

A central pond, fed by the adjacent Yoshikigawa River, forms a key part of the garden. It nestles among carefully situated rocks and trees. Plus, several teahouses and pavilions like Seishuan and Sanshutei offer prime spots to soak in the garden’s beauty.

Address: 74 Suimoncho, Nara, 〒630-8208, Japan Hours: 9:30-16:30 (last admission 16:00) More Information: Official Website

9. Kairaku-en: A Must-Visit Among the Three Great Gardens of Japan

Kairaku-en, standing among the Three Great Gardens of Japan, is an absolute must-visit. Situated in the heart of Mito, this expansive garden beautifully captures the essence of traditional Japanese landscape design. Its rich history, dating back to 1841, and the natural beauty it encapsulates offer an enriching experience to every visitor.

The garden was established by the local lord Nariaki Tokugawa, with the name ‘Kairaku-en’ meaning ‘garden for the enjoyment of all.’ This concept was unique for its time, as most gardens were solely for the pleasure of feudal lords. The democratic spirit of Kairaku-en is one of its defining features, making it an interesting piece of Japan’s historical landscape.

Perhaps the most iconic feature of Kairaku-en is its stunning plum tree grove. Home to approximately 3,000 trees spanning a hundred different species, this grove transforms into a vibrant spectacle each spring when the trees bloom in a myriad of colors.

Beyond the plum trees, Kairaku-en also houses a serene bamboo grove and a tranquil cedar woods. Adding to the garden’s charm is the Kobuntei, a traditional Japanese building. From here, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the entire garden and the nearby Lake Senba.

A visit to Kairaku-en is not just a walk through a garden; it’s a journey into Japan’s cultural heritage, where every step brings you closer to understanding the timeless elegance of Japanese landscaping.

Address: 1 Chome-1251 Migawa, Mito, Ibaraki, 〒310-0912, Japan Hours: 9:30-16:30 (last admission 16:00) More Information: Official Website

By incorporating elements such as water, rocks, trees, and moss, each Japanese garden tells a unique story of nature and tranquility. These traditional Japanese gardens are a testament to the country’s long-standing love for and dedication to the art of gardening. They are a product of centuries of refined skills, cultural aesthetics, and an appreciation for the simple, humble beauty of nature.

Visiting a Japanese garden is not just about experiencing the beauty of Japanese landscaping; it’s about embracing the tranquility, the silence, and the stillness that permeate these spaces. It’s about understanding the Japanese concept of “ma” – the beauty of space, of pause, of the moments in between. This is what sets Japanese gardens apart.

From the majestic Golden Pavilion of Kinkaku-ji to the serene Zen garden of Tenryu-ji, from the picturesque landscapes of Ritsurin Garden to the symbolic journey through Suizenji Jojuen Garden, these stunning Japanese gardens are sure to leave you in awe.

As we wrap up this virtual tour, we hope you’ve been inspired by the beauty of these Japanese gardens. Perhaps you’ll incorporate elements of Japanese landscaping into your own garden, or maybe you’ll plan a trip to Japan to experience these serene landscapes firsthand.

Whichever path you choose, remember that each Japanese garden is a journey into tranquility, an invitation to step back, slow down, and appreciate the beauty of nature, the passage of time, and the delicate balance between simplicity and sophistication. That’s the true essence of a traditional Japanese garden.

Three Days in Nara: Discovering Six Ancient Temples – Ultimate Travel Guide

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Gardens of Japan

By Japan specialist Jo

Gardens of varying sizes and styles are scattered across Japan, both in the cities and in quieter rural areas. For me, they represent the Japanese aesthetic — a love of nature, art and architecture — perfectly. You can plan a trip around seeing a range of gardens, or include a garden visit in a more varied tour of the country. I’ve visited many wonderful examples, but the following gardens stand out as particularly special.

Gardens to visit in and around Tokyo

While the parks are well-kept and often planted carefully, the Japanese consider them as places for picnics or for children to play. Their relationship with gardens is much more aesthetic, which they admire with the same hushed reverence you’d see in an art gallery.

In Tokyo , a good starting point is the Imperial Palace East Gardens. The palace is the primary residence of the Emperor of Japan, and the gardens are open year round. Modern Tokyo has grown up around the palace, making it accessible if you’re centrally located. Inside, you’ll find a maple-fringed pond, an elegant teahouse and a woodland grove leading onto large lawns.

Sankeien Garden, Yokohama

Many Japanese gardens aspire to encompass six key attributes: spaciousness, seclusion, artifice, antiquity, waterways and panorama. In Tokyo, spaciousness and seclusion are a little hard to come by, so I suggest a day trip to Sankeien Garden in Yokohama, a half-hour train ride away.

Sankeien was built by Sankei Hara, a wealthy silk merchant, in 1904. It’s an infant compared with other gardens, but it has amassed a collection of architecture that has been acknowledged as culturally significant by the Japanese government. Ponds and lawns are arranged around a series of historic buildings — many saved from being destroyed or disrepair — collected from across Japan.

This is a grand vision with landscaped hills, water features and a traditional teahouse. The defining feature is a three-storey pagoda, which was built in Kyoto in the 15th century and relocated to the gardens in 1914. I couldn’t see the pagoda when I first walked in: it’s slowly revealed as you follow the paths through the garden. I visited Sankeien in the morning then went into Yokohama for lunch. A port city with red-brick buildings influenced by traders, it has the largest Chinatown outside China .

Enjoy your own private garden in Kyoto

The Japan depicted in period films and ukiyo-e paintings, Kyoto is scattered with more than 1,600 Buddhist temples, hundreds of Shinto shrines and some grand Imperial villas. It also has some of the best examples of machiya, wooden townhouses originally owned by craftspeople and merchants. Many have now been converted into comfortable self-catering places to stay with their own garden.

The faithfully traditional interiors feature exposed wooden beams, sliding shoji doors and tatami mat flooring. The rooms are built around an open courtyard garden, or tsubo niwa: small and simple in design and surrounded by the walls of the house. It’s worth noting that you can’t usually access these gardens, the idea being to appreciate them from the comfort of your indoor living space.

Gardens to visit in Kyoto

Ryoanji zen garden.

Due to its intense concentration of temples and monasteries, Kyoto boasts a hefty collection of Zen gardens. Designed to imitate the essence of nature and as a place for monks to meditate, these gardens have a distinct minimalist aesthetic. Rather than foliage, the main components are sand and rock.

The Ryoanji Zen garden isn’t one of the biggest, but it’s considered the pre-eminent Zen garden in Japan today. To the untrained eye, it’s 15 rocks in a sea of sand and gravel, but don’t be deceived. Ryoanji has been designed to make you think about and interact with the space by walking around it. No matter where you stand, you can’t see all the rocks at the same time (I did try).

The bordering grounds were turned into a temple in 1450, but the origin of the garden is a mystery: no one knows who built it or what’s behind the arrangement of the rocks.

The garden is a 30-minute bus ride north from Kyoto Station, and I recommend visiting in the early morning to view it in the tranquillity that was intended.

Joruri-ji in Kizugawa

Quite a few of Kyoto’s temple gardens are on a well-trodden route and can get busy, so I journeyed out to Joruri-ji. From Kyoto it’s a 50-minute train to Nara , then a half-hour bus ride into thickly forested countryside. Aside from a couple of restaurants nearby, the temple stands alone. I was the only visitor, if you discount a couple of cats trying to grab lunch from the koi carp pond.

Dating back to 1047, the temple is widely considered to be one of the best examples of a paradise garden. These gardens are a concept from Pure Land Buddhism, a strand of the religion that became popular in the 11th century. Paradise gardens are focused around a pond that represents the ocean between birth and death, with an island signifying Earth in the middle.

Joruri-ji is one of the few remaining paradise gardens, and the only survivor to still have all nine statues of the Amida Buddha (the nine stages of nirvana) in its hondo (temple hall). It was one of the smaller gardens I’ve visited but, as it was so quiet, I could really appreciate the tranquil atmosphere. The garden is almost completely taken over by the lake, but you can walk around the outside in the shadow of a three-tiered pagoda.

Kenrokuen Garden, Kanazawa

The modern city of Kanazawa is within easy reach of Tokyo or Kyoto and is best known for Kenrokuen Garden . Alongside Kairaku-en in Mito, and Koraku-en in Okayama, Kenrokuen is considered to be one of the top three gardens in the country, achieving all six key attributes a garden should have to reach perfection.

As the city is quite compact, the garden lies within walking distance of most hotels. I suggest wandering over in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the busiest times. I explored with a guide, who explained the intricacies behind the creation of the garden right down to the precise placement of the path-side lanterns.

After passing through a wooded entrance, one of the first things I saw was a sage-green pond with a fountain spurting proudly from the middle. It’s considered to be the oldest fountain in Japan, and the water source’s higher elevation creates a natural pressure that forces the water skyward.

Making my way up a gentle hill, the garden began to open out below — the best place to take a photograph — to reveal a large pond with a teahouse set on a corner. If you turn around from this spot, you can see the Ryōhaku Mountains in the background.

Kenrokuen is a strolling garden. All its elements have been planned with miegakure in mind — a technique to angle visitors toward a particular viewpoint. There’s a clear path running through the park, which should be followed in a clockwise direction.

Tea is served in the Shigure-tei Teahouse, once a residential villa and one of a number of teahouses dotted around Kenrokuen. You can sip matcha (a finely powdered green tea) and nibble wagashi sweets, a traditional tea accompaniment made from sweetened bean paste.

The garden was originally attached to Kanazawa Castle, which the Maeda clan owned in the 17th century. This rich feudal-lord family remodelled the garden over the years, before they opened it to the public in 1874. The castle burned down a number of times over the centuries, but you can see the remnants at Kanazawa Castle Park, opposite Kenrokuen.

The history of Japanese gardens

During the Asuka period (538–710), Japanese merchants were inspired by gardens in the imperial courts of China. The first gardens in Japan were created using Chinese building methods and designed to channel Buddhist beliefs through an appreciation of the natural world. Few gardens still exist from this time, but many modern versions echo Buddhist principles.

For a time the gardens lost their religious significance, and there was a shift to replicating Japanese beauty spots in miniature — Suizenji Jojuen Garden in Kumamoto has a miniature Mount Fuji — as well as scenes from literary texts. As Buddhist influences regained importance in the Kamakura period (1185–1336), Zen gardens emerged, designed as a contemplative setting for meditation.

Each following period has influenced garden design in its own way, reflecting the society of that time. Some of the best-known gardens are for strolling, made popular by the nobility of the Edo period (1603–1868), where society’s elaborate social structure encouraged a patronage of the arts.

When to visit Japanese gardens

Japanese gardens are designed to be admired year-round and each season highlights a different range of attributes. Spring’s cherry blossom is well-known, but the season also brings a palette of other blooms, from rich, pink plum blossom to tendrils of mauve wisteria.

Summer is peak festival time across the country, when many of the gardens host events and are often illuminated for the occasion. But even if your trip doesn’t time with an event, nature hosts its own light show, with fireflies flickering across many gardens, lakes, streams, and ponds.

In autumn, the gardens blaze red and orange with the turning of the maple leaves. Visit in late autumn or early winter and you’ll see yukitsuri being carefully constructed. Translated as ‘snow suspenders’, these sculptural constructions of rope and bamboo help tree branches support the snow of deep winter.

In fact, November and early December is a time I particularly recommend. You can wander around the gardens with a hot tea, and while there’s still a lot of foliage to admire, the architectural features like bridges, carefully crafted waterways, and tea houses really shine. With far fewer visitors, you’ll also get a taste of the meditative calm these gardens were designed to evoke.

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10 Most Beautiful Kyoto Gardens & Why You Should Visit Them

Top 10 Japanese Gardens You Must Visit in Kyoto

The art of japanese gardening, a final reflection on kyoto's gardens, frequently asked questions.

Kyoto, known as the cultural heart of Japan, is a city that beautifully embodies the fusion of ancient traditions with modern life. As the imperial capital of Japan for over a thousand years, it's home to countless temples, shrines, and some of the most stunning gardens in the world . These gardens, deeply rooted in Japanese aesthetics and philosophy, offer not just a visual feast but also a serene space for introspection and communion with nature.

Japanese gardens are an integral part of the country's culture, meticulously designed to capture and reflect the subtle and profound beauty of the natural world. They're more than just collections of plants and trees; they're living artworks that embody principles of symmetry, balance, and harmony. From the majestic Golden Pavilion of Kinkaku-ji to the tranquil rock garden of Ryoan-ji, each garden in Kyoto tells a unique story and offers an immersive experience into Japan’s rich cultural heritage.

Prepare to be mesmerized by the tranquility and beauty of these iconic Kyoto gardens. Each garden has its unique history, features, and charm that beckon visitors from across the globe.

1. Kinkaku-ji (The Golden Pavilion)

Kinkaku-ji, or the Golden Pavilion, is a Zen Buddhist temple whose top two floors are completely covered in gold leaf. Originally built in the late 14th century as a retirement villa for Shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu , it was converted into a temple after his death. The pavilion is set in a beautiful strolling garden that showcases the building in different perspectives as one walks around the pond.

Unique Features: The reflection of the golden pavilion on the mirror pond is a sight to behold. The surrounding garden, with its moss-covered ground and strategically placed stones, creates an atmosphere of tranquility.

Best Time to Visit: Kinkaku-ji is stunning all year round, but it's especially breathtaking in spring with blooming cherry blossoms and in winter when the pavilion is outlined by snow.

Opening Hours & Fee: Located in Kita Ward, Kyoto, the temple is open from 9 AM to 5 PM. The entry fee is 400 yen.

Immerse yourself in the tranquil ambiance of Kinkaku-ji.

2. Ginkaku-ji (The Silver Pavilion)

Despite its name, Ginkaku-ji, or the Silver Pavilion, isn't covered in silver. It's an elegant two-story structure built in the late 15th century as a retirement villa for Shogun Ashikaga Yoshimasa. After his death, it was converted into a Zen temple.

Unique Features: The Silver Pavilion is home to a unique dry sand garden, known as the "Sea of Silver Sand," and an extensive moss garden. The meticulously maintained sand garden features a massive sand cone known as the "Moon Viewing Platform."

Best Time to Visit: The lush greenery of the moss garden is particularly vibrant in the rainy season (mid-June to mid-July) and in the fall when the leaves change color.

Opening Hours & Fee: Located in Sakyo Ward, Kyoto, Ginkaku-ji is open from 8:30 AM to 5 PM (March to November) and 9 AM to 4:30 PM (December to February). The entry fee is 500 yen.

Marvel at the breathtaking Kinkakuji Temple, which gleams in the sunlight amidst lush greenery.

3. Ryoan-ji (Famous for rock garden)

Ryoan-ji is a Zen temple, famous for its mysterious rock garden, thought to be the finest example of a 'karesansui,' a dry landscape or "Zen" garden. The temple was originally an aristocrat's villa during the Heian Period but was converted into a Zen temple in 1450.

Unique Features: The rock garden consists of 15 rocks of varying sizes, carefully composed on a bed of white gravel. The garden is designed so that from any vantage point at least one of the rocks is always hidden from the viewer.

Best Time to Visit: The simplicity of the rock garden lends itself to quiet contemplation in any season. However, the temple's large pond garden is most beautiful in late November when the autumn colors peak.

Opening Hours & Fee: Located in Ukyo Ward, Kyoto, Ryoan-ji is open from 8 AM to 5 PM (March to November) and 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM (December to February). The entry fee is 500 yen.

Visit Ryoan-ji with this tour.

4. Nanzen-ji (Known for its scenic aqueduct)

Nanzen-ji, established in 1291, is one of the most important Zen temples in Japan . It's nestled at the base of Kyoto's forested Higashiyama mountains and offers stunning views, especially during the autumn leaf season.

Unique Features: The temple complex includes multiple sub-temples and a beautiful garden, but its most distinctive feature is the scenic brick aqueduct that passes through the temple grounds. This aqueduct, part of the Lake Biwa Canal, adds a unique charm to the temple.

Best Time to Visit: Nanzen-ji is breathtaking in all seasons, but it's particularly enchanting in autumn when the maple trees turn fiery red and orange.

Opening Hours & Fee: Located in Sakyo Ward, Kyoto, Nanzen-ji is open from 8:40 AM to 5 PM (March to November) and 8:40 AM to 4:30 PM (December to February). The entry fee is 500 yen for the Hojo Garden.

5. Tenryu-ji (UNESCO World Heritage site)

Tenryu-ji is the head temple of the Tenryu branch of Rinzai Zen Buddhism, located in Arashiyama. Constructed in 1339, it has been ranked first among Kyoto's top five Zen temples. The temple is also a UNESCO World Heritage site, famous for its incredible landscape garden.

Unique Features: The Sogenchi Garden, designed by the famous garden designer Muso Soseki , is a highlight of this temple. The garden, with its central pond mirroring the surrounding landscape, has retained its original form for over seven centuries.

Best Time to Visit: The garden is beautiful throughout the year, but it's especially stunning in spring with cherry blossoms and in late November when the autumn colors peak.

Opening Hours & Fee: Located in Ukyo Ward, Kyoto, Tenryu-ji is open from 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM (March to November) and 8:30 AM to 5 PM (December to February). The entry fee is 500 yen for the temple grounds and an additional 300 yen for the garden.

Explore one of the most famous temples in the city, Tenryu-ji.

6. Shosei-en Garden (Downtown garden retreat)

Shosei-en Garden, also known as Kikoku-tei, is a serene retreat in downtown Kyoto. It's owned by Higashi Honganji Temple but is located a few blocks away from the temple itself. The garden was designed in the early 17th century and features a central pond surrounded by tea houses and walking paths.

Unique Features: The garden is a classic example of a "chisen-kaiyu" style garden where visitors follow a circular path around a central pond. The garden also houses several tea houses, each offering a different view of the landscape.

Best Time to Visit: Shosei-en Garden is beautiful all year round, but it's especially enchanting during cherry blossom season in spring and when the leaves change color in autumn.

Opening Hours & Fee: Located in Shimogyo Ward, Kyoto, Shosei-en Garden is open from 9 AM to 5 PM. The entry fee is 500 yen.

7. Tofuku-ji (Famous for autumn foliage)

Tofuku-ji is a large Zen temple in southeastern Kyoto that's particularly famous for its spectacular autumn colors. The temple was founded in 1236 at the behest of the powerful Fujiwara clan.

Unique Features: Its most popular view is of the Tsutenkyo Bridge, which spans a valley of lush maple trees. The view from the bridge is equally impressive, overlooking a sea of red and yellow in autumn. The Hojo Garden, designed by noted landscape architect Mirei Shigemori , is also remarkable with its contemporary rock gardens.

Best Time to Visit: While the temple can be visited all year round, the best time to visit Tofuku-ji is in late November when the autumn colors are at their peak.

Opening Hours & Fee: Located in Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, Tofuku-ji is open from 9 AM to 4 PM. The entry fee is 400 yen for the Hojo Garden and Tsutenkyo Bridge.

8. Daitoku-ji (Complex of Zen temples)

Daitoku-ji is a sprawling temple complex covering over 23 hectares in northern Kyoto. Established in 1315, it serves as the head temple of the Daitoku-ji school of the Rinzai sect of Zen Buddhism and consists of nearly two dozen sub-temples.

Unique Features: The complex is renowned for its many zen gardens and tea ceremony rooms. Some of its notable sub-temples include Daisen-in, known for its dry landscape garden; Koto-in, famous for its tranquil moss and maple tree garden; and Obai-in, which houses an important cultural property, the painting of the "Dragon of Smoke".

Best Time to Visit: Daitoku-ji is worth visiting all year round, but it's particularly beautiful in autumn when the maple trees in Koto-in's garden turn red.

Opening Hours & Fee: Located in Kita Ward, Kyoto, Daitoku-ji's main temple grounds are open to the public for free. However, individual sub-temples within the complex have their own visiting hours and fees, generally ranging from 9 AM to 5 PM with an entry fee of 400 yen.

Discover the serene beauty of Daitokuji Temple, a Zen Buddhist complex with tranquil gardens and historical significance.

9. Philosopher's Path (Historic walk lined with cherry trees)

The Philosopher's Path, or Tetsugaku-no-michi, is a charming stone path that follows a canal lined with hundreds of cherry trees. The path is named after the influential 20th-century philosopher, Nishida Kitaro, who was said to practice meditation while walking this route on his daily commute to Kyoto University.

Unique Features: The path spans approximately 2 kilometers, beginning around Ginkaku-ji and ending in the neighborhood of Nanzen-ji. The canal is lined with hundreds of cherry trees, making it one of the city's most popular destinations for hanami (cherry blossom viewing) in spring.

Best Time to Visit: The best time to stroll along the Philosopher's Path is in early April when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom. However, the path offers a peaceful and scenic walk at any time of the year.

Opening Hours & Fee: The Philosopher's Path is located in Sakyo Ward, Kyoto, and is open to the public free of charge, 24 hours a day.

10. Imperial Palace Park (Large park in the heart of the city)

The Kyoto Imperial Palace Park, also known as Kyoto Gyoen, is a large park enclosing the Imperial Palace and Sento Imperial Palace. The park covers an area of approximately 1.3 square kilometers and is located in the center of Kyoto City.

Unique Features: The park features beautifully manicured lawns, elegant bridges, and a variety of trees and flowers. It is home to several historical buildings, including the Imperial Palace itself and the Sento Palace with its gardens.

Best Time to Visit: The park is a popular spot for cherry blossom viewing in the spring and for enjoying the autumn colors. However, its expansive lawns and shady groves make it a pleasant retreat all year round.

Opening Hours & Fee: Located in Kamigyo Ward, Kyoto, the Imperial Palace Park is open to the public free of charge, 24 hours a day. However, to visit the Imperial Palace and Sento Palace, you need to join a guided tour, which requires advance reservation through the Imperial Household Agency's website.

And don't miss the chance to marvel at the awe-inspiring Imperial Palace.

The aesthetics of Japanese gardens are deeply rooted in the principles of harmony (wa), respect (kei), purity (sei), and tranquility (jaku). The aim is to create a miniature and idealized view of nature, evoking a sense of peace and inspiring contemplation.

Harmony is achieved through careful balancing of colors, sizes, and shapes of plants and rocks. Respecting the natural growth and shape of plants is paramount, with pruning and shaping done to highlight their intrinsic beauty, not to force them into unnatural forms.

Purity is represented through the use of water and the careful selection of plants and rocks, symbolizing cleanliness and simplicity. Finally, the ultimate goal is to create a space that promotes tranquility, offering a serene space for meditation and reflection.

Key Elements of Japanese Gardens

Japanese gardens are typically characterized by several key elements:

1. Water: Symbolizing life and purity, water bodies like ponds, streams, and waterfalls are central to many Japanese gardens. They're often populated with koi fish and crossed by wooden bridges.

2. Rocks: Used to represent mountains, islands, or even animals, carefully chosen and placed rocks are another vital element, often arranged in groups of three to represent the Buddhist trinity.

3. Bridges: Bridges, often arched and made of stone or wood, signify a journey from one world to another. They're not just functional but also add aesthetic value.

4. Lanterns: Stone lanterns are a common feature, providing gentle illumination and representing the enlightening nature of Buddhism.

5. Tea Houses: Many gardens feature a small tea house or pavilion where traditional tea ceremonies are held, symbolizing harmony, respect, purity, and tranquility.

6. Paths: Winding paths invite visitors to explore the garden slowly, discovering different views and features along the way.

Our journey through the ten most beautiful gardens in Kyoto has been a captivating exploration. We've witnessed the perfect blend of traditional Japanese aesthetics, nature, and history. Each garden, with its unique design and features, highlighted Kyoto's intrinsic beauty and its deep-rooted cultural heritage.

Your visit to these gardens won't just be a visual treat, but an enlightening experience. It's about immersing yourself in serene landscapes, understanding the philosophy behind each design, and appreciating the harmony between nature and man-made artistry.

What is the most famous garden in Kyoto?

The most famous garden in Kyoto is arguably the Karesansui (dry landscape or “zen” garden) at Ryoan-ji Temple. Known for its simplicity and serenity, this Zen rock garden is a masterpiece of Japanese culture. It's also recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Its abstract and minimalist design, featuring 15 rocks on a bed of white gravel, invites contemplation and introspection.

Is Kyoto Garden free?

While some gardens in Kyoto are free to enter, many require an admission fee. For instance, the famous Ryoan-ji Temple charges an entry fee. However, there are several beautiful gardens that you can visit for free, such as the Shosei-en Garden, the Murin-an Garden, and parts of the Kyoto Imperial Palace Park.

What are the three famous gardens of Japan?

The three most famous gardens of Japan are Kenroku-en in Kanazawa, Koraku-en in Okayama, and Kairaku-en in Mito. These are collectively known as the "Three Great Gardens of Japan," renowned for their beauty and historical significance.

What is the oldest garden in Kyoto?

The oldest garden in Kyoto is believed to be the garden at Shisen-do, a temple in the northern part of the city. Established in 1641 by a retired samurai, the garden features a variety of plants and trees, a pond, and a traditional tea house.

What is the most famous garden in Japan?

The most famous garden in Japan is arguably Kenroku-en in Kanazawa. Considered one of the "Three Great Gardens of Japan", Kenroku-en is known for its beauty in all seasons. The garden's name translates to "Garden of the Six Sublimities", referring to the spaciousness, seclusion, artificiality, antiquity, abundant water, and broad views, which are all considered important attributes of a perfect garden.

Continue reading

17 Best Japanese Gardens In The US To Visit

We curated a list of Japanese gardens in the US where you can sit in nature's lap and enjoy your day!

Wanna see a reflection of heaven on the earth?

Then visit a Japanese garden that provides delight to the eye and can soothe your soul. You will find yourself wandering over beautiful bridges, basking under charming cherry blossom trees, sipping on a cup of green tea while looking at the tranquil lake.

Many people plan a trip all the way to Japan to take a glimpse of these traditional gardens.

But, thanks to their international popularity, now you can find some of the best Japanese gardens in the US.

So, if you want to heal your soul with heavenly beauty, stay tuned till the end.

Top Breathtaking Japanese Gardens in America: Place to Find Peace

There are more than 200 Japanese gardens in the United States. These are designed to capture your heart within a second with their mystical landscape.

Some of them have a traditional structure like a tatami-floored tea pavilion and koi fish ponds.

As it’s impossible for you to visit the vast number of gardens, I have prepared a list of the best Japanese gardens in the US.

Now, let’s start exploring one by one.

Como Park Conservatory , St. Paul, MN

The Charlotte Partridge Ordway Japanese Garden at the Como Park Conservatory is a living emblem of Saint Paul's peace and friendship with its sister city Nagasaki, Japan.

The garden, which is infused with real Japanese design, opened in 1979 and continues to offer a little bit of a Japanese conservatory right here in the midst of frigid Minnesota.

From May through September, the Japanese Garden is open. Although admission is free, donations are welcome.

Address : 1225 Estabrook Dr, St Paul, MN 55103

The Nishinomiya Garden, Spokane, WA

The Japanese Garden at Manito Park, finished in 1974, was planned to beautifully revolve around a Koi pond.

A cobblestone path leads you to classic bonsai-style trees and Japanese sculptures, which are well complemented by the sound of running water. 

San Mateo Japanese garden , San Mateo, CA

The Japanese Tea Garden, built by landscape architect Nagao Sakurai of the Imperial Palace of Tokyo, is regarded as one of the greatest tea gardens in California. There is a granite pagoda, a tea house, a koi pond, and a bamboo grove. 

The Japanese Tea Garden is magnificent all year, but it's especially lovely in late winter and early spring when the cherry blossoms are in bloom. It's in San Mateo, just outside of San Francisco. 

During the Spring and Summer, Koi Feedings are held at 11:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m., Monday through Friday (fish are not fed during public hours from November – February). 

Portland Japanese Garden, Oregon

When I first visited this garden, I was left speechless!

I never thought of finding such an authentic Japanese-style botanical garden outside of our country Japan.

It was designed in 1963 on the grounds of a former zoo. The 12-acre region contains eight unique styled sections which allow the visitors to experience all the aspects of Japanese garden architecture.

After you reach the top of the hill, you will enter the Cultural Village outlined by world-famous architect Kengo Kuma. Here you can enjoy traditional Japanese arts through seasonal performances, activities, and demonstrations in the courtyard of Atsuhiko and Ina Goodwin Tateuchi Foundation.

Then you may visit the Jordan Schnitzer Japanese Arts Learning Center to immerse yourself with the delicate sounds of Koto (Japanese harp) or Shakuhachi flute.

You can also experience Japanese kimono, learn about tea making, and the art of flower arranging.

A stroll through the garden will let you see eye-catching scenery and a tranquil pond. You will feel like being lost in nature. The serene wind and calm environment will make all your tiredness of city life disappear.

To refresh yourself, you may drop by Umami Cafe in the garden. Just sip on the world-class Japanese tea with some traditional gracious and delicious edible delights.

Now, how about taking the garden’s art and culture at home!?

Well, in that case, you should go to the Gift Shop which is situated in the Cultural Village. There you will find a mix of exceptional items from Japan, including numerous items available nowhere else in the US.

In short, if you are in Portland, don’t miss visiting this famous Japanese garden at any cost. I assure you that you are gonna cherish each moment here.

Seattle Japanese Garden, Washington

A green treasure in the heart of Seattle!

Yes. With winding paths and benches, this garden is a gem located on top of Capitol Hill at the southeaster side of Washington Park.

You can enjoy views of water lanterns, bridges, plants, animals, buildings, and stones.

Open since June 1960, this Zen garden in Seattle is one of the highly praised Japanese-style parks in the USA.

A Zen garden is also renowned as a Japanese rock garden, consists of natural elements such as rock, sand, wood, etc.

This 3.5-acre orchard features a style that was developed in the late 16th to early 17th centuries called stroll gardens.

Prominent landscape designer Juki Iida planned this garden with the concept of “essence of nature” in mind. He used Japanese plant materials and Pacific Northwest native trees that have spread out gracefully over time.

He even chooses a vast number of granite rocks to set up near the waterfall. With the change of season, each element of this beautiful zen garden provides new colors, shapes, and fragrances.

To get an authentic vibe, you may drop by Seattle’s Japanese tea house named Shoseian Teahouse. The surrounding nature will keep your eyes delightful while enjoying the tea ceremony.

If you plan to visit this park with your child, don’t forget to take them to the pond. The colorful fish gather near the bridge, and your kid will definitely love their appearance.

It’s also a captivating place to spend a weekend with family, friends, or even your partner.

The Japanese Tea Garden, San Francisco

This orchard is one of the best Japanese gardens in California and a popular tourist attraction too.

It features an arched drum bridge, stone lanterns, pagodas, stepping stone paths, serene koi ponds, native Japanese plants, and a zen garden.

The best time to visit this garden is during March and April when the flowering cherry trees are adorned with peak beauty.

By the way, there is a long story behind the establishment of this park.

Originally, it was developed as a “Japanese Village” exhibit for the 1894 California Midwinter International Exposition.

After the fair ended, Makoto Hagiwara (Japanese landscape architect) and John McLaren (superintendent) made an agreement, allowing Mr. Hagiwara to maintain a permanent Japanese-style garden as a gift for future generations.

He became the caretaker of this property and poured his personal wealth, talents, and passion into perfecting the garden. He expanded it to about 5 acres and lived with his family there.

However, in 1942, they were forced to evacuate home and move into an internment camp. Even when the war was over, Hagiwara’s family was not permitted to return their home to the tea garden.

After that, many renovations were made, and then people of America started to visit this place to find peace in city life.

If you go there, don’t forget to stop by the tea house and try the fortune cookies. You will find a paper tucked inside the cookie that has a short message.

Try to open one and see what’s in your destiny!!

Although it’s just a myth, I always find it exciting to open a fortune cookie cause you never know what’s written inside.

Anyway, there’s a gift shop nestled on the terrace level of the Tea House where you can purchase tea sets, glazed ceramic bowls, vases, a variety of green teas, kokeshi & daruma dolls, Maneki Neko figurines, and children’s collectibles.

Shofuso Japanese House and Garden, Philadelphia

Shofuso, also known as “Pine Breeze Villa,” is the name of the 17th century-style Japanese house that nestles within the gardens. It was created in Nagoya utilizing traditional materials and exhibited for the MoMA (Museum of Modern Art) in 1953.

In 1957, it was brought to Philadelphia to replace a temple gate that burned down in 1955.

Classified as one of the best Japanese gardens in the world outside Japan, it acts as a live museum where you can view the koi pond , stroll around the courtyard, and chill out in the tea garden.

They also arrange tea ceremony demonstrations monthly from April to October, allowing small groups (generally not more than 25) to participate. Taking part in it will give you a different cultural experience you never had before.

At the end of the ceremony, you will receive a bowl of matcha and a traditional seasonal dessert.

By the way, the house also functions as an art gallery where you can see nihonga-style paintings on the building’s fusuma or sliding screens.

Visiting here is going to make you feel like you are in Japan instead of America. So, if you want to refresh yourself by viewing a historic site, look forward to nothing but this natural park.

Japanese Garden at Missouri Botanical Garden, St. Louis

If you see a lot of colors, it’s the time when nature is smiling!

So, what do you think? Do you want to witness a blooming nature in St. Louis?

Then go to the Japanese-style orchard situated in Missouri Botanical Garden. During spring, you will be mesmerized by the display of cherry blossoms all over the park.

There are over 40 specimens of Yoshino cherry trees throughout the garden. The most dramatic ornamental cherry tree is the weeping Higan cherry that can create an eye-catching view of pink flowers.

Also, you will be able to see Sargent cherry blossom, which can grow widely , creating a breathtaking vista.

Apart from that, you can catch a dazzling view of the Azaleas and Rhododendrons next to the walking paths.

In a word, this garden is a heaven of blooming colors with various types of flowers where you will feel like entering a picturesque world.

Moreover, this 14-acre Seiwa-en Japanese Garden also features four different islands: Tortoise Island, Crane Island, Paradise Island, and Nakajima (Teahouse Island).

You can enjoy the panorama of the sparkling carp-filled lake, lovely maple trees, stone lanterns, and traditional bridges.

What I like the most about this orchard is the waterfall. The burbling sound really took away all of my tiredness.

Just close your eyes and hear the streaming sound; I assure you that your mind will be calmed in a moment.

Japanese Hill-and-Pond Garden, New York

It is one of the oldest and most-visited Japanese-type gardens outside Japan. You will find artificial hills outlined around a pond, a waterfall, and an island with thoughtfully placed rocks.

Besides these, there are many other architectural elements such as wooden bridges, an observation pavilion, stone lanterns, a dramatic vermilion-colored wooden torii, and a Shinto shrine.

When I visited this garden, I was thoroughly enchanted by its visuals. Also, it’s really rare to see a torii gate in America.

In case you never saw the famous floating torii gate in Miyajima island, then you can get to see an almost similar framework here.

By the way, this garden is located inside the Brooklyn Botanic Garden, which is considered one of the largest gardens (52-acres). Hence, you can stroll the other space around too.

I will say that if you are looking for a fantastic Japanese garden nearby New York City, stopping by this park is a must for you.

SuihoEn Japanese Garden, California

Personally, I love the interior of SuihoEn Japanese Garden. And, I think my words will fall short in describing the loveliness of this garden.

Here you will find a dry Zen garden that contains Tortoise Island, a wisteria arbor at the end of the Plover Path, and a three-Buddha arrangement of stones.

Next to the path, there is a wet-strolling garden with waterfalls, lakes, abundant greenery, and stone lanterns hand-carved by Japanese artists.

The waterfalls have three levels symbolizing Heaven, Man, and Earth. The water garden looks magnificent in summer when lotus and water lilies flourish.

Well, as I particularly mentioned about the summer season, don’t even think that the other seasons are lacking in any way.

Just like most Japanese gardens, it has been designed to offer seasonal beauty like vibrant fall foliage and spring blooms.

After strolling halfway through the reserve, you will find Shoin Building with a tatami-mat teahouse and tea garden.

There you can spend some relaxing time as well as enjoy the marvelous view of the garden.

In short, if you live in California or came here for personal purposes, don’t miss this place at any cost. You are gonna fall in love with the atmosphere the very moment you enter this heavenly preserve.

Anderson Japanese Gardens in Rockford, IL

Anderson Gardens is a phenomenal place in Rockford, Illinois, where you can step into the picturesque scenes of a classical Japanese Garden.

After exploring the Portland Japanese Garden in Oregon, John Anderson was fascinated by the beauty and decided to construct a similar garden in 1978.

He even brought the main architect Hoichi Kurisu to build his own personal garden. But in 1998, John and Linda Anderson donated the garden as a supportive organization to the Rockford Rotary Charitable Association .

Now, this 12-acre Japanese Garden is a location with colorful plants, lanterns, stone sculptures, elegant bridges, pretty waterfalls, and lakes full of koi carps.

Although this place looks spectacular all year round, I like the autumn look the most. It’s because the colorful leaves and blooming flowers take the beauty of this botanical garden to the next level.

Therefore, I recommend you visit during late September or October to give your eye a sensational treat.

Ohh, I forgot to tell you that there is a sukiya-style tea house and a guest house here where you can take rest.

Japanese Friendship Garden of Phoenix Arizona

Japanese Garden of Phoenix Arizona (a.k.a Ro Ho En) is a joint project between Phoenix and its Japanese sister city of Himeji to honor the friendship between the two cities.

All of the decorative features that you will witness in this botanical garden required hundreds of hours to design, and the citizens of Himeji gifted many elements.

As Arizona is often associated with deserts, many people don’t even know that there is such a tranquil green space right in its capital Phoenix.

However, now that you came across to know about it, not visiting the garden would be an unwise decision.

The orchard holds several educational and cultural events, such as a regular tea ceremony, Children’s Day in April, and Otsukimi Full Moonviewing Festival in October.

Also, you can sign up for Ikebana flower arranging and Japanese cultural classes.

In case you are looking for a location to meditate and relax, visit this park to restore the serenity of your body, mind, and spirit.

Elizabeth Hubert Malott Japanese Garden, Chicago

Elizabeth Hubert Malott Japanese Garden is situated inside the Chicago Botanic Garden. It contains three islands, but only two are open for the public: Sifuto (Island of clear, pure breezes), and Keiunto (Island of the auspicious cloud).

The inaccessible island Horaijima is symbolic of heaven, which is visible but feels elusive.

You will see half-buried moss-covered rocks, curving paths, beautiful pine trees, stunning arrays of flowers, grassy hills, and woods.

As the garden is open throughout the year, you can visit whenever you want and enjoy the changing colors of each season.

The highlight is the traditional Japanese lantern named Ikekomi, which is buried in the ground and is surrounded by water.

When you visit this garden, you may follow a walking tour plan provided on their site. It will take approximately 25-35 minutes to stroll the whole place. By following their tour plan, you won’t miss out on anything.

The Bloedel Reserve, Bainbridge Island

The Japanese Garden inside Bainbridge Island’s Bloedel Reserve is enriched with vivid scenes of the forest and Puget Sound in the distance.

With 150 acres and 23 different landscapes to explore, it’s a place where you can lose yourself in nature. The exotic plants, trees, and wildlife will make you feel like walking in the woods.

Vice-chairman of a lumber company created the reserve to design a western display of Asian philosophies of serenity and subtlety.

The Japanese garden is a small site within the large Bloedel Reserve, which offers various styles, from forest paths to reflection pools. It is made with sand and rock with bonsai trees and strolling paths alongside the pond.

Plan a day trip if you want to wander around the whole reserve steadily. You may take some instagrammable photos and spend quality time close to nature.

Be sure that your visit to this garden will be worth every moment and you are gonna cherish it for a long time.

The Japanese Garden within Fort Worth Botanic Garden, Texas

Nestled within the Fort Worth Botanic Garden, this 7.5-acre Japanese-themed orchard was built in 1970. Fort Worth's sister city, Nagaoka, Japan, gave many of its construction materials and plants.

Here you will find a gorgeous meditation garden, a pagoda, a moon-viewing deck, and fish food dispensers to feed the koi fishes in the garden’s lakes.

Many events are held here, such as Spring Festival and Fall Festival, showcasing Japanese art and culture.

You may attend the festivals to get  a unique cultural experience.

The Richard & Helen DeVos Japanese Garden, Michigan

This Japanese-inspired garden is located inside Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park. And it was constructed in 2015.

The focal point is the authentic Japanese teahouse, which Japan’s skilled craftsmen created, then eventually reassembled in Michigan.

Another impressive feature is the Zen-style Garden that lets visitors relax and contemplate.

Other highlights of this garden are waterfalls, Long Island Buddha, Japanese maples, cherry blossom trees, Serviceberry, and an untitled sculpture by Anish Kapoor.

Mytoi Japanese Garden, Massachusetts

Mytoi is an intimate Japanese-themed garden flourished with both native flora and exotic plants.

The preserve has a small pond and island habitat for frogs, turtles, and goldfish. There are also non-native and native flowers and a trail leading to Poucha Pond and the salt marsh.

If you go to Chappaquiddick Island, then you should definitely consider dropping by the Mytoi Garden. To get there, you need to take a small ferry.

By the way, the orchard is attractive all year round. The rhododendrons are in peak bloom during June, and the greenery looks outstanding in October.

And in December, the Trustees present a magical lighted trail for Christmas in Edgartown.

Therefore, no matter when you visit this place, you will be presented with the unparalleled beauty of nature. 

Morikami Museum And Japanese Gardens, Delray Beach

After opening in 1977, this lovely 200-acre garden has been promoting Japanese culture by hosting several events throughout the year. It hosts different Japanese festivals and tea ceremonies.

You will also find over 7000 pieces of art and artifacts. The reserve contains a bonsai garden, two museum buildings, a gift shop, and a Cornell Cafe restaurant.

It has six unique gardens that are inspired by Japanese culture.

Strolling through the pine forest, you will always be engaged with the beauty of rock formations, plant arrangements, cascading waterfalls, and serene lakes.

Each of the orchards is praiseworthy because of their different elegance. So, if you go there, try to wander around each one to experience diverse aspects of Japanese culture.

When you finish exploring the gardens, make your way to the museum. It offers rotating schedules of exhibitions and programs.

On Saturdays, you can witness a Japanese tea ceremony at Seishin-an teahouse. And you can end your day by enjoying a meal on the open-air terrace of Cornell Cafe.

Japanese Garden in Atlanta Botanical Garden, Georgia

Imagine yourself walking down the aisle encircled by an evergreen Japanese garden.

For me, a marriage event in a natural environment has something magical and fresh aura.

So, if you are an enthusiast of Japanese-style gardens and want to get married in such surroundings, then you may consider this one. You can rent the space for an intimate ceremony.

Besides, this charming place is a great escape from the hustle-bustle of life. The preserve has many elements to offer, such as hill-and-pond, courtyard, and tea gardens.

You will see a chozubachi stone basin on the ground, which is used as a purification ritual before a tea ceremony. The Moon Gate gives a phenomenal vista over the park.

There are spring-blooming azaleas & irises, and maples that change color during fall. Just outside the gate, there is a collection of rare harp-string Nandina and bamboo famous in Japan from the 1600s to 1800s.

Mizumoto Japanese Stroll Garden, Springfield

The 7.5-acre Mizumoto Japanese Stroll Garden was established in 1985 and is one of the oldest attractions at the Springfield Botanical Gardens.

It has a large pond full of koi carps, a tea house, a moon bridge, and a contemplation garden.

You may follow the path to explore all the scenes, and don’t forget to drop by the elegant moon bridge.

After going through the 17 best Japanese gardens in the US, which one impressed you the most?

Hmm, I think it’s kinda hard to answer this question because each of them is truly incredible.

As you can’t visit all of them, you may choose the one that’s nearby your living location.

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JRailPass.com » Japan Travel Blog » 10 magical gardens you must visit in Japan

10 magical gardens you must visit in Japan

February 3, 2023

Traditional Japanese gardens are famous the world over. These gardens highlight the beauty of nature, avoiding artificial, man-made components wherever possible. The first of these gardens began to be built on the island of Honshu around 600 A.D.

Japanese gardens also capture aspects of the traditional Shinto religion, as well as Daoism and Buddhism. The gardens speak of the unstoppable march of time, natural aspects of the Japanese landscape, such as its volcanic peaks, and often include replicas of the legendary Mount Horai.

We’ve selected some of the best gardens in Japan, and included details on how to get there using your Japan Rail Pass . Why not make a garden or two part of your next Japanese vacation?

Gardens in groups of three are common throughout Japan. The following three gardens are considered to be among the Three Great Gardens of Japan:

Table of Contents

• 1 Kenroku-en (Kanazawa)
• 2 Koraku-en (Okayama)
• 3 Kairaku-en (Mito)
• 4 Katsura Imperial Villa (Kyoto)
• 5 Kokedera (Kyoto)
• 6 Ryoan-ji Temple (Kyoto)
• 7 Adachi Museum of Art
• 8 Shinjuku Gyoen (Tokyo)
• 9 Imperial Palace East Gardens (Tokyo)
• 10 Ritsurin Koen (Takamatsu)

Kenroku-en (Kanazawa)

Also known as the “garden which combines six characteristics,” Kenroku-en is located in Kanazawa . Six aspects are considered vital to an ideal Japanese garden; these include coolness, subtlety of design, scenic views, wisdom and respect, serenity, and spaciousness. This garden features ponds and natural landscape features such as hills and streams, and structures such as pavilions and tea houses.

How to Get There: Use your JR Pass to travel to Kanazawa Station. One to three JR buses per hour depart from the station. Exit the bus at stop number 4.

Koraku-en (Okayama)

Called, the “garden of pleasure after,” Koraku-en is located in Okayama. This garden’s name is derived from a proverb of Confucius, in which he explained that a ruler should consider the needs of his subjects first, and his own “pleasure after.” Construction began in 1687, and the garden was opened to the public in 1884. The Okayama Castle can be viewed from this garden.

How to Get There: Use your JR Pass to travel by train to Okayama Station. From the station, you may take a 30-minute walk to the garden or take a bus to the Korakuen-mae bus stop near the garden’s primary gate.

Kairaku-en (Mito)

Located in Mito (Ibaraki prefecture), Kairaku-en can be translated “a garden to enjoy with people.” Once a private garden, its opening to the general public helped sparked a movement towards public parks. It is famous for o ver three thousand plum trees that bloom in early spring.

How to Get There: From Shinagawa or Ueno Station in Tokyo, take a limited express train on the JR Joban Line to Mito Station. The garden is a 30-minute walk from the station or 15 minutes by bus. During the plum blossom season, stops are also made at the Kairakuen Station, very close to the garden.  

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Katsura Imperial Villa (Kyoto)

The Katsura Imperial Villa is a strolling garden built for the enjoyment of high ranking officials during the Edo Period. If you would like to tour this garden, be sure to make reservations in advance.

How to Get There: Take the Hankyu Kyoto Line to Katsura Station. From the station, the garden can be reached by a 15-minute walk.

Kokedera (Kyoto)

The Kokedera , or Moss Temple , is so named because it is home to 120 different kinds of moss. It is considered a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The garden was originally part of a royal villa before it became a temple nearly 1,000 years ago. Reservations must be made in advance via postal mail, and visitors are required to participate in Buddhist chanting and scripture copying before viewing the gardens.

How to Get There: From Kyoto Station , take the Karasuma Line to Shijo Station; the Hankyu Kyoto Line to Katsura Station; and the Hankyu Arashiyama Line to Matsuo Taisha Station. The garden is a 20-minute walk from the station.

Ryoan-ji Temple (Kyoto)

The Ryoan-ji Temple is home to the most famous rock garden in Japan. It became a Zen temple in 1450, but the designer and exact meaning of the garden are unknown. Ideas on its meaning range from islands, to a tiger carrying cubs across the water, to the abstract concept of infinity.

How to Get There: Use your JR Pass to travel to Kyoto Station . Take a 30-minute ride on a JR bus to the temple.

Adachi Museum of Art

A few hours from Kyoto, in the north west of Honshu, you can view the gardens surrounding the Adachi Museum of Art . This garden has won the Journal of Japanese Gardening ’s award for best garden every year since 2003.

How to Get There: From Okayama. Then, transfer to the JR Yakumo Limited Express to Matsue. Then, take a JR rapid train from Matsue Station to Yasugi Station. A free shuttle bus to the museum runs once per hour.  

Shinjuku Gyoen (Tokyo)

Great for viewing cherry blossoms in spring, the Shinjuku Gyoen is one of Tokyo’s best gardens. It has spacious lawns for picnicking and family outings, a traditional landscape garden, and, uniquely, a French style garden.

How to Get There: Use your JR Pass to travel to Shinjuku Station . The park is a 10-minute walk to the east of the station.

Imperial Palace East Gardens (Tokyo)

The Imperial Palace East Gardens formerly housed an Edo Period castle, the foundations of which are still visible. The park includes huge castle moats and a landscape garden.

How to Get There: Use your JR Pass to travel to Shinjuku Station . The palace and gardens are a 15-minute walk to the west of the station.

Ritsurin Koen (Takamatsu)

Finally, in the Kagawa Prefecture, very near Okayama,  Ritsurin Koen i n Takamatsu is one of the most beautiful strolling gardens in southern Japan. Ponds, teahouses, and walking paths can be found in this recreational garden of the old local lords.

How to Get There: Travel to Okayama Station (on the Sanyo Shinkansen line) directly from Tokyo, Kyoto or Osaka. At Okayama, take the Marine Liner rapid service to reach Takamatsu . A direct overnight train ( Sunrise Seto ) also operates between Tokyo and Takamatsu.

By employing the information on Japanese gardens presented in this handy guide, you are sure to enjoy the beauty of nature on your next Japanese vacation.

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Inside Kyoto

A Kyoto Travel Guide

Kyoto’s Best Gardens

Kyoto is a garden lover’s paradise. It is the best place in all of Japan to immerse yourself in the wonders of the Japanese garden. Here are my favorite gardens in Kyoto, organized by type.

Many of the best Japanese gardens can be found inside temples, and with over 1600 temples, it’s no surprise that Kyoto is chock-a-block with fantastic gardens. Indeed, Kyoto has the thickest concentration of good gardens in all of Japan. Every type of Japanese garden is represented in Kyoto, from austere karesansui (“Zen gardens”) to flamboyant stroll gardens of the Shoguns and Emperors.

Of course, with so many gardens on offer, it can be hard to choose the ones to see during a visit to Kyoto. To help you decide, I’ve put together a very subjective list of the best gardens in Kyoto. Please remember that this should only serve as a starting point. Sample some of these beauties and then dig deeper to find your own favorite garden in one of Kyoto’s myriad temples.

Best Overall Gardens In Kyoto:

• Karesansui (dry landscape or “zen” garden) at Ryoan-ji Temple
• Stroll garden at Ginkaku-ji Temple
• Hojo Garden at Tofuku-ji Temple
• Stroll garden at Okochi-Sanso Villa
• Garden at Taizo-in Subtemple at Myoshin-ji Temple
• All the subtemples of Daitoku-ji Temple (especially Koto-in)

Best Karesansui Gardens (dry landscape gardens, often called “Zen gardens”)

• Ryoan-ji Temple
• Tofuku-ji Temple
• Kennin-ji Temple
• The subtemples of Daitoku-ji Temple

Best Gardens For Strolling:

• Ginkaku-ji Temple
• Okochi-Sanso Villa
• Sento Gosho
• Shugakuin Rikyu Imperial Villa

If you want to find more places to wander while you’re in Kyoto, see my rundown of the city’s best green spaces .

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Kyoto Vacation Checklist

• For all the essentials in a brief overview, see my First Time In Kyoto guide
• Check Kyoto accommodation availability on Booking.com and Agoda.com - often you can book with no upfront payment and free cancellation
• You can buy shinkansen (bullet train) tickets online from Klook - popular routes include Tokyo to Kyoto , Kyoto to Osaka and Kyoto to Tokyo
• Need tips on where to stay? See my one page guide Where To Stay In Kyoto
• See my comprehensive Packing List For Japan
• You can buy an eSim to activate in Japan or buy a data-only SIM card online for collection when you arrive at Tokyo's Narita or Haneda Airports or Kansai International Airport . You can also rent an unlimited data pocket wifi router
• Compare Japan flight prices and timings to find the best deals
• If you're making frequent train journeys during your visit, you might save money with Japan Rail Pass – see if it's worth it for you
• A prepaid Welcome Suica card makes travelling around Kyoto easy – here's how
• World Nomads offers simple and flexible travel insurance. Buy at home or while traveling and claim online from anywhere in the world
• Do you want help planning your trip? Chris Rowthorn and his team of Japan experts at Japan Travel Consulting can help

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• Tourist Spots & Attractions

Best 30 Tourist Attractions to Visit in Japan According to Travelers

• Keisuke Tsunekawa

Whether it's your first or fifth time in Japan, you'll find yourself looking for the top places to visit during your travels. This article will give you the run down on the best tourist attractions in Japan as voted by international travelers on TripAdvisor, one of the world's largest tourist information sites. We hope you can use this list when planning your trip to Japan!

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1. Fushimi Inari Taisha (Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture)

Fushimi Inari Taisha is famous for its countless Senbon Torii gates that extend throughout the grounds. Many local and international visitors come to see this path of torii gates and to capture a photo of the  mysterious scenery here. Around 2.7 million visitors on average come to the shrine for hatsumode (first shrine visit in the New Year) every year, which is almost as much as Meiji Shrine in Tokyo . 

When looking at the Senbon Torii paths, you may wonder why so many of these were built. One theory is that, in the past, the custom of offering torii gates to the gods spread due to the metaphorical connection to the idea of "going through"; passing through a torii gate contained the hope that your prayer would "pass through" to the gods, or conveyed gratitude that a granted prayer had "gone through".

The grounds of the shrine are very vast, as Mt. Inari as a whole has become a site of worship. At around 4 km in length and 233 m in elevation, the course takes around 2 hours to walk. Fushimi Inari Taisha has many shrines that offer blessings, so while you walk the grounds you can visit a range of sub-shrines, including Ganriki Shrine, dedicated to the god of eyes, Oseki Shrine, dedicated to the god of throats, and Yakuriki Shrine, which is said to grant sound health. In addition to walking the Senbon Torii, visiting these shrines and exploring the mountain is a way to experience the true essence of Fushimi Inari Taisha. The shrine doesn't have any closing hours, so you can experience the scenery here any time of the day or night.

2. Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum (Hiroshima, Hiroshima Prefecture)

Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park is a historical museum in Hiroshima that opened in 1955. This museum was built to preserve the memory of the many victims of the August 6, 1945 atomic bombing of Hiroshima for future generations. Monuments, cenotaphs, photos and belongings of the victims, and other material related to the bombing are displayed here.

There are exhibits that convey the tragedy of the atomic bombing, including doll reproductions of victims, a photo of a girl who suffered burns, and documents that explain the historical background that lead to the atomic bombing. Many visitors come to learn about the horrors wrought by atomic weapons and war and the value of peace. Entry beyond the gate that surrounds the Atomic Dome is prohibited to the general public, but you can view the dome from outside the gate at any time.

3. Itsukushima and Itsukushima Shrine (Hatsukaichi, Hiroshima Prefecture)

Located in Hatsukaichi City, Hiroshima Prefecture, Itsukushima is counted as one of the Three Views of Japan, along with Amanohashidate in Kyoto Prefecture and Matsushima in Miyagi Prefecture. Commonly known as Miyajima, this island is also registered as a World Cultural Heritage site. At around only 30 km in circumference, this small island has been worshipped as a god and considered a sacred site since ancient times.

Itsukushima Shrine (Miyajima Shrine) was built around the year 1400. It's extremely popular with tourists from all over the world, and is known for the magical sight of the torii gate that seems to float on the water at high tide. Just like Nara Park, a popular sightseeing area in Nara Prefecture, Itsukushima Shrine is also famous as a spot where you can interact with the wild deer that roam the island.

4. Todaiji Temple (Nara, Nara Prefecture)

Todaiji Temple's biggest attraction is its Daibutsuden Hall. Built of wood and reaching 15 m in height, this hall is said to be one of the biggest of its kind in the world. A giant statue of Buddha that serves as an object of worship for those of the Buddhist faith is enshrined here. Two Kongorikishi warrior statues stand guard on both sides of the 25 m high Nandaimon gate located on the path that leads to the Daibutsuen. Visitors are sure to find these magnificent statues a very impressive sight.    Todaiji Temple is located in Nara Park. This large, 502 hectare park is managed by Nara Prefecture and is entirely free to visit. Another attraction at Nara Park and Todaiji Temple are the park's friendly wild deer. The approximately 1,200 deer that inhabit the park are registered as a protected species of Japan.

5. The Hakone Open-Air Museum (Hakone, Kanagawa Prefecture)

Hakone is an area where you can experience stunning natural landscapes in every season. Taking advantage of these natural surroundings, the Hakone Open-Air Museum opened in 1969 as Japan's first open air museum, and is celebrating its 50th anniversary in August 2019.

Its biggest attraction is the outdoor sculpture exhibition. The chance to enjoy works of art in these wide, open outdoor spaces is the key to why this spot charms so many tourists. The lush, 70,000 sq.m. gardens, overlooked by the Hakone mountains, has around 120 pieces of modernist and contemporary sculpture on permanent display, including works by Auguste Rodin, Antoine Bourdelle, Henry Moore, and Japanese artist Taro Okamoto.

The Hakone Open-Air Museum also has indoor exhibition spaces, including the Picasso Pavilion that exhibits its world-class collection of 319 pieces on a rotating basis. Natural hot springs and foot baths are also available here, making this a very restful and relaxing place to spend some time.

6. Shinjuku Gyoen (Shinjuku, Tokyo Prefecture)

Shinjuku Gyoen was built in 1906 as a private garden for the Imperial household. This modernist Western style garden is one of Tokyo's most popular, and the Japanese aesthetic that existed during the turn of the 20th century remains here today.

Shinjuku Gyoen, which is 58.3 hectares wide and 3.5 km in circumference, adopts a range of styles in its design, including the formal garden style developed in Italy and France in the 16th century, the landscape garden style developed in England in the 18th century, and traditional Japanese garden styles. Around 10,000 trees grow thickly in these lush gardens.

The fact that visitors can retreat from the bustling Shinjuku streets to enjoy the seasonal landscape here is a key to its popularity. Inside the park, there are also many buildings connected to the history of the Imperial household, including the Western Old Imperial Rest House, which was built as a rest area for the Imperial household, and the Taiwan Pavilion (Kyu-Goryo-Tei) that was built to celebrate the marriage of the Showa Emperor.

7. Sanjusangen-do (Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture)

Sanjusangen-do is a Buddhist temple that was built around 1200 and today is recognized as a national treasure. Visitors are fascinated by the sight of the approximately 1,001 statues of Kannon found in the grand hall, which measures approximately 16 m high,  22 m wide, and spans 120 m from north to south. Other highlights are the sculptures of Fujin and Raijin, the gods of wind and lightning, which are the oldest of their kind in Japan. If you're interested in Japanese Buddhist sculptures, don't miss a visit to Sanjusangen-do.

8. Mt. Koya Okunoin (Koya, Wakayama Prefecture)

Okunoin Temple is located at Kongobuji Temple, the Koyasan Shingon sect's head temple in Wakayama Prefecture. This is said to be the most sacred area in the World Heritage site of Mt. Koya, and is known as a holy place where the Buddhist mausoleum for Kobo Daishi, the founder of Shingon Buddhist sect, is situated.

The path to Okunoin Temple starts from the Ichi no Hashi bridge to the mausoleum, and is just under 2 kilometers each way. The temple path takes around an hour and a half to walk both ways, and is lined with over 200,000 tombstones, stone monuments, cenotaphs, and lanterns that create a solemn atmosphere. The cenotaphs here include some dedicated to famous military commanders from the Japanese Warring States period, including Oda Nobunaga, Toyotomi Hideyoshi, Takeda Shingen, and Uesugi Kenshin. In the evenings, many enjoy the elegant scenery created by the gentle light from lanterns that faintly illuminate the path ahead. Many worshippers come each day to experience the mysterious atmosphere that surrounds this mausoleum.

9. Himeji Castle (Himeji, Hyogo Prefecture)

Himeji Castle is located in Himeji, Hyogo Prefecture. This castle is registered as a World Cultural Heritage site, and has also been selected from Japan's many castles for inclusion in Japan's Top 100 Castles list in recognition of its importance as a cultural asset. This national treasure is said to be a masterpiece of traditional Japanese fortress construction techniques, giving the castle important historical value as well.   After being first constructed in 1609, the castle has been continually maintained and repaired so that its original form remains today. The elegant sight of this white plastered castle has been likened to the sight of a heron taking flight, which is the origin of Himeji Castle's nickname, Heron Castle. The beauty of the rampart and elaborate castle tower captures the hearts of those who visit.

10. Kinkakuji Temple/Rokuonji Temple (Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture)

Built in 1397 as a residence for the shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu, Kinakuji Temple (officially named Rokuonji Temple), is an extremely valuable building that is listed among the Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Of course, its attraction is the fact that this temple is covered inside and out in gold leaf.

The elegant atmosphere created by the sight of Kinkakuji Temple, which is surrounded by a pond and lush gardens, is a true highlight. Another charm of this temple is how its appearance changes each season, whether surrounded by cherry blossoms in full bloom in spring, luscious greenery in the summer, fall foliage in the fall, and covered in snow in the winter.

11. Kenrokuen Garden (Kanazawa, Ishikawa Prefecture)

Along with Korakuen Garden in Okayama and Kairakuen Garden in Mito, Kenrokuen Garden is one of the Three Great Gardens of Japan. It's also designated as an Important Cultural Property and Site of Scenic Beauty in Japan. The symbol of the garden and its biggest highlight is the two-legged stone lantern called the Kotojidoro. The surface of the pond that stretches out as though surrounding the lantern with autumn leaves overhead is a deeply elegant sight that feels almost as though the beauty of nature has been condensed into one scene.

In winter, you can also see traditional rope structures called yukizuri that are built to protect the tree branches from the weight of the snow. In spring, you can enjoy the garden scenery surrounded by cherry blossoms in full bloom. Visitors can also enjoy tea and meals unique to the gardens at the garden's tea houses.

12. Naritasan Shinshoji Temple (Narita, Chiba Prefecture)

Narita Airport, familiar to many international visitors to Japan as their gateway to Japan, is located in the city of Narita, Chiba Prefecture. It takes around 15 minutes by train from the airport to Narita Station. As you make your way from Narita Station, you'll start to catch sight of Naritasan Shinshoji Temple in around 10 minutes.

Naritasan Shinshoji Temple, said to provide good fortune and ward off evil, is worth visiting in and of itself, but the castle road further towards Shinshoji Temple is definitely worth a trip as well. Lined on both sides with quaint historical buildings, this road is so atmospheric, you may feel as though you're walking through a town as it was  during the Edo period 400 years ago. There are plenty of souvenir and food stores to visit here. Enjoy a visit to Shinsoji Temple and stroll through these charming streets for an undeniably elegant way to spend the time before or after your flight.

13. Hasedera Temple (Kamakura, Kanagawa Prefecture)

Hasedera Temple enshrines a statue called the Juichimen Kannon, one of the largest wooden statues of Kannon in Japan. First opened in 736, this temple is sometimes known as the Flower Temple for its seasonally flowering plants. Its known as one of the best spots for hydrangeas in Japan, and there are around 2,500 plants from 40 varieties to admire along the scenic walkway that also offers a view of Yuigahama Beach. It's a famous location for autumn leaf viewing, too! You can enjoy the magical sight of the illuminated autumn trees during the temple's evening opening period from late November.

True to its nickname, there are a range of flowers to enjoy year round, including wisterias, peonies, and azaleas. The observation deck that gives a view over the Kamakura ocean and townscape is also a popular stop. The sight of the many hydrangea varieties in the early summer rainy season, as well as the view of Sagami Bay in the distance as you climb the scenic walkway, has earned Hasedera Temple attention as a leading scenic site in Japan.

14. Nara Park (Nara, Nara Prefecture)

Many consider Nara Park to be an unmissable part of any visit to the Kansai area. The park opened in 1880 and is one of Japan's most popular sightseeing destinations, with over 13 million visitors from Japan and overseas each year. Vibrant landscapes spread throughout the expansive 502 hectare park grounds, and it is also the site of historical structures like Todaiji Temple and Kasuga Taisha Shrine. Its most famous feature is the wild deer that inhabit the park. As of 2019, there are a total of 1,180 deer living in the park, with 256 stags, 715 doe, and 226 fawns.

The details behind why these deer inhabit the park are not known today. However, there is a legend that Takemikazuchi, the god enshrined at Kasuga Taisha Shine, rode a white deer. The Manyoshu, Japan's oldest poetry anthology that was compiled in the year 750, also mentions deer.

You can experience feeding the deer with the special "shika senbei" deer feed that is available to buy in the park. Many other animals inhabit the park, including squirrels, tanuki (raccoon dogs), wild boar, giant flying squirrels, and more, so if you're lucky you may have the chance to see some of these, too.

There are also a variety of plants to enjoy here including the protected Mt. Kasuga Primeval Forest, pine trees, cherry trees, Japanese maple, crape myrtle, Chinese tallow, lily-of-the-valley, cedar, plum, camphor, and cypress trees. You could say that a visit to Nara Park gives you an experience of Nara Prefecture's natural environment all in one place.   Guide for interacting with deers at Nara Park:  - Don't tease the deer by hitting or chasing them. The deer are wild animals, and may attack in response. Please take particular care to supervise small children.   - Do not feed the deer anything other than the deer senbei (rice crackers) sold in the park.   - Please give the deer senbei to the deer right away. Deer may grow angry if teased with food.  - Don't litter: there is a risk of the deer eating it and becoming sick.

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15. Toshogu Shrine (Nikko, Tochigi Prefecture)

Nikko Toshogu enshrines the Warring States Period military commander, Ieyasu Tokugawa. There are many historical buildings here, eight of which are designated as National Treasures, and 34 of which are classified as Important Cultural Properties. In 1999, Toshogu Shrine was registered as a World Heritage site, solidifying its position as a treasury of cultural assets and one of Japan's most important sites.  

You can see a variety of structures here that give an experience of the beauty of Japanese adornment techniques. The shrine's symbolic Yomeimon Gate, with its covering of colorful carvings, is said to be a condensation of Japanese building techniques, and looks just like an art piece. Another national treasure, Karamon Gate, is decorated with gold leaf and painted with white pigment made from seashells.

Carvings with an animal motif are a characteristic of Toshogu Shrine. There are a total of eight monkey carvings here, which are said to be a satire of human life. Among them is the Shinkyusha Sanzaru, a famous carving that was the origin of the symbol of the Three Wise Monkeys and their "see no evil, hear no evil, speak no evil" proverb. There are many other unique small pieces with an animal theme, including the Sleeping Cat, which represents a guardian deity that pretends to sleep while protecting the house from danger. The sparrows on the carving represents peace, as the cat sleeping through the fluttering of sparrows nearby is a symbol of peaceful coexistence.

Another charm of Toshogu Shrine is the chance to try local foods. You can enjoy Nikko's specialty, yuba (tofu skin), at Kishino restaurant, which serves this local delicacy with soba noodles.

16. Shukkeien Garden (Hiroshima, Hiroshima Prefecture)

Shukkeien Garden is a historical park first created in 1620. While this garden is located in the center of the city, the lush scenery feels far removed from the hustle and bustle, and these gardens are visited every day by sightseers from all over the world. You can enjoy the seasonal scenery as you walk the grounds and view the traditional tearooms including Seifu-kan and Meigetsu-tei. A tea house that serves light meals such as tea and udon is located in the park, and many people choose to drop in during their stroll.

Head to the adjoining Hiroshima Prefectural Art Museum to enjoy works that have been designated Important Cultural Properties, including the "Foliate Bowl with Floral Design in the Kakiemon Style" and "Folding Screen with Itsukushima Design". There are also exhibitions of artworks related to the Hiroshima area, and pieces by artists like Salvador Dalí.

17. Daishoin Head Temple (Hatsukaichi, Hiroshima Prefecture)

Miyajima, one of the Three Views of Japan, is very famous for the red torii gate at Itsukushima Shrine, which is a World Heritage site. While some people may come all the way to Miyajima and leave after seeing Itsukushima Shrine, there is another important temple known among insiders as a hidden "power spot" on the island. This temple is gaining particular popularity among international visitors, and there a wealth of items said to grant blessings here. Among them is Henjokutsu, which is located in a cave below the Daishido Hall and said to grant great blessings to those who worship here, and Ichigan Daishi, a Jizo statue said to grant you a single wish.

Cooking-related items are also found here, including a large wooden pestle that is said to crush klesha, or polluting thoughts, if you turn it three times, and a kitchen knife mound where worshippers express thanks to their used knives and ceremonially dispose of them.

Daishoin is also known as a place to see beautiful autumn leaves, and its Daishoin Momiji Festival is held each year in November and December. 

18. Lake Kawaguchiko  (Fuji Kawaguchiko, Yamanashi Prefecture)

Lake Kawaguchiko is located at the north foot of the world famous Mt. Fuji and is visited year round by sightseers. Lake Kawaguchiko is one of the Five Lakes of Mt. Fuji, and is located at the lowest elevation of the five. It is a very beautiful lake that is famous for the elegant way Mt. Fuji appears reflected in reverse on its surface. It can be reached in around two hours from Tokyo, and the area has plenty of hotels and hot spring accommodations, making it a popular spot not just for day trips but for longer stays as well.

In 2013, Lake Kawaguchiko was registered as part of the Mt. Fuji group as a World Heritage site, and in 2017, there were over 4.5 million recorded visitors. This area has long flourished for its picturesque scenery, and there are many tourist attractions such as scenic hot springs, galleries, and museums in the area. Highlights include Oishi Park, with its beautiful views of the lake and Mt. Fuji beyond, Kawaguchiko Music Forest Museum, where you can see exhibits of music boxes, and the Fuji Q Highland theme park. 

19. Shirakawago Thatched Roof Village (Shirakawa Village, Gifu Prefecture)

The thatched-roof villages of Shirakawa-go and Gokayama are popular sightseeing destinations. They were registered as World Heritage sites in 1995, and have also been awarded three Michelin stars. 

Shirakawago's most well-known feature is the buildings made with a traditional Japanese building style called gassho-zukuri. The word "gassho" means pressing one's hands together in prayer, which the shape of the roofs here is said to resemble. The Shirakawago area is known as having some of the highest snowfall in Japan, and the steep slope of these roofs is a clever display of Japanese ingenuity that protects against damage from heavy snow. If you climb to the Tenshukaku Observatory, you can see an unbroken view of these many gassho-zukuri houses spread out along the rice fields. Another highlight is the Wada House. Built over 300 years ago and maintained in its original form, this residence is designated as an Important Cultural Property. Inside Wada House, you can see educational displays about the silk industry that supported the development of this region. 

In recent years, this area has become more well known due to a range of media coverage, and improvements to the transport network has meant that many people are now visiting from all over the world. You can deeply feel the rural culture, lifestyles, and customs in this traditional Japanese "hometown" that looks just as it did in the past.

20. Shoshazan Engyoji Temple (Himeji, Hyogo Prefecture)

Shoshazan Engyoji Temple is one of the stops on the Saigoku Kannon Pilgrimage, which covers 33 sites in the surrounding Kinki region. Shoshazan Engyoji Temple is the largest of these 33 sites, and is positioned as a temple with a special statues within the Buddhist Tendai sect. This temple is also known for being a location for the Hollywood movie, The Last Samurai.  

A highlight of the Engyoji Temple is the three halls that have been designated Important Cultural Properties of Japan. The first is the 2 story, 15 room Jikidou (Dining Hall), which is used by training monks. The second is Daikodo Hall, which enshrines an image of Gautama Buddha flanked by two monks. The third is the Jogyodo, a dojo used by monks during training. You can receive a goshuin temple stamp and try your hand at copying sutras on the first floor of the Jikidou.

Experience the spiritual atmosphere at Engyoji Temple as you walk along the temple road surrounded by trees that have grown here for hundreds of years.

21. Sensoji Temple (Taito, Tokyo Prefecture)

Sensoji Temple is known as the oldest temple in Tokyo. Its biggest highlight is the temple's main gate, Kaminari-mon, with its giant red lantern and the two Kongorikishi guardian statues on each side. You'll see a crowd of sightseers taking photos in front of this impressive gate every day.

On the road to the main temple building, you'll find a retro, 250 m-long shopping street called Nakamise-dori. Nakamise-dori has many long-standing shops that have operated here for many years, so you can shop here for the perfect souvenir while enjoying Asakusa street food specialties like ningyoyaki, dorayaki, and kaminari-okoshi rice crackers

When you leave the shopping street, you may catch sight of people bathing in the smoke that rises from the jokoro incense burned here, which is said to purify and heal the body. Once you've finished worshipping and taking pictures of the Kaminari-mon and the equally photogenic main temple, test your luck by buying an omikuji fortune. 

22. Meiji Shrine (Shibuya, Tokyo Prefecture)

Meiji Shrine was built in 1920. It's said to grant blessings spanning many aspects of life, such as love, study, and business, and locals and foreigners alike flock to pray here. During the new year, it's known as the most popular spot in Japan for hatsumode. In 2019, 3.2 million people came to pray here during this period.

One of its biggest attractions is its location in the center of Harajuku, Japan's major trendsetting area, which is full of popular restaurants and flagship fashion stores. When you step inside the grounds, you'll feel the shrine's calm and solemn atmosphere. This is a chance to experience history and nature without leaving the city center. This shrine is known as a "city oasis" and makes the perfect spot to rest and recover from your sightseeing and shopping in the Tokyo crowds.

23. Shiratani Unsuikyo Ravine (Yakushima, Kagoshima Prefecture)

Yakushima is a world-famous island off the coast of southern Kagoshima Prefecture. Its most popular sightseeing destination is the Shiratani Unsuikyo Ravine.

The symbol of this area is the Yakusugi, which has been designated a Special National Monument of Japan. The beautiful and spiritual forest was used as the setting for the Studio Ghibli film Princess Mononoke. It attracts many sightseers who come to seek a restorative experience in this lush natural environment. 

The island is 90% covered in forest, and has a number of native plants, including Yakushima bamboo and Yakushima rhododendron. Many animals also inhabit the island, including Yakushima deer, Yakushima monkeys, Yakushima thrush, and tane robin. You might say that Yakushima is like a natural garden created by Mother Nature herself. 

24. Otagi Nenbutsuji Temple (Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture)

Otagi Nenbutsuji Temple is a sightseeing destination located in Kyoto's Arashiyama, an area known for its picturesque seasonal scenery. Otagi Nenbutsuji Temple is known for the approximately 1,200 stone Buddhist statues enshrined here. 

The adorable Arhat statue here looks just like a cute cartoon character, and seeing the different facial expressions on each stone statue is a highlight in and of itself. The main temple has an over 800-year history, and is registered as an Important Cultural Property of Japan. Its Senju Kannon statue is said to ward off evil. The temple's sense of history and the sight of the autumn foliage spread out over the grounds makes for an elegant scene that draws many tourists.

25. Chureito Pagoda (Fujiyoshida, Yamanashi Prefecture)

Chureito Pagoda is a five story pagoda built at Arakurayama Sengen Park in 1962 to comfort the spirits of those who died in battle. Over 650 Yoshino variety cherry trees cover the grounds here, and the sight of these trees in full bloom alongside the pagoda and in view of Mt. Fuji makes for the ultimate photo spot.

Many people visit every day to try and capture a picture of this quintessential Japanese scenery. You can also see the autumn leaves in the fall or the powerful image of Mt. Fuji and the Chureito Pagoda covered in snow in the winter. 

26. Kyoto Station Building (Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture)

Kyoto Station Building is linked with the gateway to the city, Kyoto Station. While you may not expect to find much of interest at a regular train station, there are many shops and restaurants full of Kyoto's unique charm here. Highlights include Nakamura Tokichi, a long-standing tea house first founded in 1854, and the Kyoto Ramen Alley, which features popular ramen restaurants from all over Japan. You can also enjoy Kyoto cuisine and teppanyaki in the luxury of Hotel Granvia Kyoto, take in a musical or visit the theatre at Kyoto Gekijo, or see some works of art at Museum Eki Kyoto. Particularly popular among tourists are the large flights of stairs that are considered the symbol of the Kyoto Station Building. At night, the stairs are illuminated with 15,000 LED lights, making for a gorgeous scene. 

27. Byodoin Temple Phoenix Hall (Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture)

World Heritage site Byodoin Temple was built in 1053 with the assets of the influential Fujiwara no Yorimichi. This popular sightseeing destination allows you to experience the luxurious lifestyles of the Japanese dynasties that lived 1,000 years ago. Byodoin Temple has such a high cultural value that an image of it is even used on Japanese currency. Its highlights are the buildings and artifacts that have been registered as national treasures, including the Phoenix Hall in the main building, the 2.8 m high Amida Buddha statue, the wall and door paintings in the Phoenix Hall's Cho-do Hall, and the 52 "Praying Bodhisattva on Clouds" statues.

In addition to these national treasures, the Byodoin Garden that surrounds the temple charms many viewers. The sight of the Phoenix Hall reflected on the Ajiike Pond is a scenic spot that makes many tourists stop to take a picture.

28. Eikando Temple (Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture)

Eikando Temple is the head temple of the Jodo-shu Seizan Zenrin-ji sect. Its long history began in 853 when the Buddhist priest Shinjo, a disciple of Kobo Daishi, took over what was the former residence of Fujiwara Sekio. It has important historical value, and many cultural assets including the Mikaeri Amida (Amida Looking Back) statue, and "Yamagoshi Amida Zu", a colored silk hanging scroll. Eikando Temple is also known as a famous spot for autumn leaves.

The beauty of the autumn foliage here was also the subject of poetry included in the classic Heian period (794-1185) anthology, the Kokin Wakashu. Even 1,000 years later, Eikando is still famous for this autumn scenery. Countless autumn trees surround the pond at the center of the grounds, and in clear weather, the reflection of the red leaves on the water makes for a gorgeous sight to enjoy. If you climb the two story pagoda located at the highest point in the grounds, you can see a panoramic view of Eikando's autumn foliage. This temple has also become popular in recent years with international visitors, and it has been chosen as the best autumn leaf viewing area in Japan by travelers. The autumn leaf season falls around the end of November each year, and the nightly illumination display during this period is also recommended. 

Visitors can enter the garden and a number of the precinct's halls, excluding the Gasen-do, monk's quarters, baths, and Eikando Hall. Parts of the temple may also close periodically for special events.

29. Ritsurin Garden (Takamatsu, Kagawa Prefecture)

Ritsurin Garden is a cultural asset that has been designated as a Special Place of Scenic Beauty. The large park, at around 16.2 hectares, has many highlights, including the artificial Hirahou Hill, the expansive tea house Kikugetsu-tei, and the 8 m high Neagari Goyo-Matsu Pine. The Kyu Higurashi-tei Teahouse was built around 1700, and remains an excellent example of daimyo teahouse style. You'll also find the Sanuki Folk Craft Museum, which conserves and displays folk craft and traditional tools, at this garden. Ritsurin Garden has also been awarded three Michelin stars, the guide's highest rating.   The six ponds and 13 artificial hills make skillful use of the rich green Mt. Shiun scenery. With over 400 years of history, this promenade-style daimyo's garden has excellent layout, stone arrangements, and is rich in elegant rocks and trees. Blessed with natural features that change with the seasons, the flowering blossoms and the carefully maintained 1,000 pine trees here create beautiful scenes that seem to change with each step you take. Ritsurin Garden is an irreplaceable cultural asset that has been maintained by many successive generations throughout its long history.

30. Tokyo Disney Sea (Urayasu, Chiba Prefecture)

While Tokyo Disneyland is themed around fantasy and magic, Tokyo Disney Sea uses stories of the sea as a theme to create a world full of adventure, romance, and the thrill of discovery. To differentiate itself from Tokyo Disneyland, which is visited by people of all ages, Tokyo Disney Sea has many attractions targeted at a more mature audience, including thrill rides and artistic shows. There are fashionable, atmospheric restaurants that serve international cuisine and plenty of alcohol choices, too. 

Popular attractions include Toy Story Mania, a shooting-game ride based on the Pixar movie Toy Story, the Journey to the Center of the Earth rollercoaster, and the freefall thrill ride, Tower of Terror.

There are so many stunning sightseeing destinations all throughout Japan that it might be difficult to plan out your trip to see them all. Luckily, this list of top rated tourist attractions in Japan will give you a good idea for which ones to fit into your schedule so that you can really experience all the best parts of the country. Feel free to use this as a guide the next time you travel to Japan!

The information in this article is accurate at the time of publication.

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21 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Japan

Written by Meagan Drillinger Updated Mar 20, 2024

Japan is an enigma. It's the perfect juxtaposition of centuries-old traditions overlapped with lightning speed, cutting-edge technology. Many first-time visitors to Japan are often surprised to learn that, as one of the world's most advanced industrialized nations, this relatively small Asian country also boasts a rich and fascinating history that dates back thousands of years.

Indeed, long before many of Europe's most spectacular cathedrals were built, Japan's Shinto and Buddhist temples were already well-established and drawing pilgrims and patrons to their elaborate designs and décor. At the same time, the country was already perfecting the skills and trades that would set it on the path to riches, from fine porcelains and ceramics to textiles such as silk.

Much of this rich tradition has, despite wars and natural devastation, been preserved (or rebuilt), and a visit to Japan is a memorable adventure. Boasting an endless list of top attractions, fun things to do, and points of interest to explore, a vacation in Japan is certainly a great investment of time and money.

Discover the best places to visit in the country with our list of the top tourist attractions in Japan.

Imperial Tokyo

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Without a doubt Japan's most recognizable landmark, majestic Mount Fuji (Fuji-san) is also the country's highest mountain peak. Towering 3,776 meters over an otherwise largely flat landscape to the south and east, this majestic and fabled mountain is tall enough to be seen from Tokyo, more than 100 kilometers away.

Mount Fuji has for centuries been celebrated in art and literature and is now considered so important an icon that UNESCO recognized its world cultural significance in 2013. Part of the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park , Mount Fuji is climbed by more than a million people each summer as an act of pilgrimage, which culminates in watching the sunrise from its summit.

While some still choose to begin their climb from the base, the majority of climbers now start from above the halfway mark, at the 5th Station, resulting in a more manageable six-or-so-hour ascent. Those who do attempt the complete climb are advised to depart in the afternoon, breaking up the climb with an overnight stop at one of the "Mountain Huts" designed for this very purpose. An early start the next day gets you to the top for the sunrise.

Of course, for many, simply viewing the mountain from the distance, or from the comfort of a speeding train, is enough to say "been there, done that."

• Read More: Exploring Mount Fuji: A Visitor's Guide

Tokyo's most famous landmark, the Imperial Palace with its beautiful 17th-century parks surrounded by walls and moats, is a must-see when visiting the nation's capital. Don't be put off by the fact that the majority of the palace is closed to the public (it's still in use by the Imperial family), as there is still enough to see simply by strolling the grounds.

In addition to the many fine views of the palace from numerous points in the surrounding parkland, visitors are permitted into the East Higashi-Gyoen Garden and other areas that are opened to the public as part of an organized tour. One of the most romantic views is of the famous Nijubashi Bridge , or "double bridge," so named for its watery reflection.

Another one of the must-sees for tourists visiting Tokyo is the famous Ginza shopping district. This always bustling area is home to the Kabuki-za Theatre with its Kabuki performances, as well as the Shimbashi Enbujo Theatre with its traditional Azuma-odori dances and Bunraku performances.

While little needs to be said here of the horrors of the atomic bombing of Hiroshima in August 1945, much can be said of the incredible efforts this vibrant city has made to commemorate the many victims of the world's first nuclear attack. Perhaps even more importantly, Hiroshima has become a symbol of lasting peace.

Visited by more than a million people each year, many from overseas, Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park (Hiroshima Heiwa Kinen Kōen) lies at the epicenter of the atomic blast in what was once a bustling part of the city. Here you'll find a number of important monuments, memorials, and museums relating to the events of that fateful day.

In addition to the grounds and gardens with their colorful cherry blossoms, the park is where you'll find the Peace Memorial Museum, with its numerous exhibits dealing with the issue of world peace. It's also where you'll find the Memorial Cenotaph and the Flame of Peace , as well as the Atom Bomb Dome , the ruins of an administrative building that lay at the center of the explosion.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Hiroshima

One of Japan's most visited cities, lovely Kyoto – one of the few cities in the country to be spared the devastation of WWII – attracts more than 10 million visitors annually. Most of them are here to explore Kyoto's fine old streets and architecture, much of it unchanged since the Imperial family took up residence here more than 1,000 years ago.

Even then, the city was Japan's most important cultural center. This legacy, in fact, continues to this day with its many museums and art galleries, each bursting with important sculptures, paintings, and other art forms.

Highlights of Kyoto's Buddhist-influenced architecture include its many well-preserved temples, 30 of which are still in use, and important structures such as the 14th-century Golden Pavilion (Kinkaku-ji), famous for its exquisite gold-leaf-clad exterior.

Be sure to also visit Nijo Castle , a 17th-century fortress that has retained its original walls, towers, and moat. Also worth seeing are the castle's beautiful gates, along with its palace with fine interior décor.

Another landmark to visit is the original Kyoto Imperial Palace (Kyoto-gosho ) . Built in AD 794, it's one of the city's most visited historic sites.

Finally, no visit to Kyoto is complete without spending time exploring the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove . This beautiful area of tall bamboo is just a few minutes' walk from the town center.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Kyoto

Just a short ferry ride from mainland Hiroshima is the island of Miyajima , famous the world over as Japan's Shrine Island. Covering an area of 30 square kilometers in Hiroshima Bay, Miyajima is best known as the home of the Itsukushima Shrine, a Shinto temple dedicated to the Princess daughters of the wind god Susanoo.

Dating from the eighth century, the majority of the shrine's buildings rise out of the waters of a small bay supported only by piles. The effect at high tide is simply stunning, making these structures - including the famous Great Floating Gate (O-Torii) - appear as if they're floating on water.

Linked together by walkways and bridges, it's a fascinating place to explore, in particular its larger halls. These include the exquisite Honden (Main Hall), the Offerings Hall (Heiden), the Prayer Hall (Haiden), and the Hall of a Thousand Mats (Senjokaku).

Another notable feature is the shrine's stage, where visitors are entertained with traditional dances and musical performances. Also worth exploring are the island's exquisite grounds and gardens, home to wild deer and numerous bird colonies.

Please note: You can expect some interruptions and inconvenience from now until 2022 due to major renovations taking place at this historic site.

For centuries the hub of Japanese culture, the lovely unspoiled city of Nara is home to a large number of historic buildings, along with important national treasures and works of art.

In addition to its many historic streets, the city boasts numerous important old temples. These includ the magnificent seventh-century Kofuku-ji Temple , perhaps the best known of the Seven Great Temples of Nara; and the splendid eighth-century Todai-ji (Great East Temple), famous for its huge bronze statue of the Great Buddha (Daibutsu), cast here in AD 749.

Also of interest in Todai-ji are its Great South Gate (Nandaimon). This spectacular two-story structure is borne on 18 columns, with two Nio statues standing eight meters tall, and it guards the temple entrance. Also of note here is the Hall of the Great Buddha, the world's largest timber building.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Nara

Built in 1586 by famous Japanese warrior and politician Toyotomi Hideyoshi , Osaka Castle (Ōsaka-jō) was at the time the largest and most important fortress in the country. Although destroyed and rebuilt a number of times since, the present structure, built in 1931, remains true to the original.

Highlights of a visit include the huge five-story, 42-meter-tall main tower. Built on an imposing 14-meter-tall stone base, the tower is home to a number of displays detailing the history of the castle and the city. Be sure to visit the top floor for its superb views over Osaka, an especially attractive sight as the sun sets.

Also of interest in Osaka Castle Park is the Hokoku Shrine , while Osaka's best-known temple, Shitennō-ji , is also worth visiting and dates back to AD 59. Notable as Japan's first Buddhist temple, this lovely shrine features a five-story pagoda along with a number of other exquisitely decorated buildings. Among them are the Golden Pavilion (Kondō), with its fine statues and paintings; the Lecture Hall (Kōdō); and a lovely covered corridor linking three of the site's gates.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Osaka

Japan boasts a number of outstanding areas of natural beauty, many of them designated as national parks or, in some cases, UNESCO World Heritage Sites. One of the country's most spectacular of these is Chūbu-Sangaku National Park in the center of Honshu. Located in the park's northern and central regions is the group of mountains collectively referred to as the Hida Mountains , or Japanese Alps.

This region contains some of the highest peaks in the country, including Hotaka at 3,190 meters, and Yari at 3,180 meters. Similar in many ways to the Alps of Central Europe - both in the character of the landscape and in its abundance of snow in winter - the Japanese Alps attract large numbers of walkers and climbers in summer and skiers in winter.

Of particular interest is the park's abundance of flora and fauna, including the rare ptarmigan and mountain antelopes found at higher altitudes. The park's many hot springs also draw visitors and led to the development of various spas and holiday resorts, the best known being Kamikōchi .

The Atsuta Shrine, in the heart of the city of Nagoya, is the most important Shinto shrine in Japan, and attracts more than five million visitors each year. Established in the first century, this religious site is famous for its preserved Imperial insignia, the "grass-mowing sword" (kusanagi-no-tsurugi), one of only three in the country.

Also of interest are its principal shrine, Hongu, surrounded by an enclosing wall, and the treasury with its numerous works of art, including old and modern paintings, ceramics, jewelry, and traditional masks. While in Nagoya, be sure to also visit Nagoya Castle . This splendid moated complex was built in 1612 and boasts a 48-meter-high main tower that is famous for its two gilded dolphins (shachi). It's also a popular place to visit for its museum, containing art treasures from the former palace, and its spectacular views over the city and the Nobi Plain.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Nagoya

The ruins of the once-grand Fukuoka Castle (Fukuoka-jō), built in the early 1600s, punctuate the middle of Maizuru Park. The castle was once a fine example of the prolific and majestic hilltop homes preferred by Shoguns and city rulers. But it was destroyed after the Meiji Restoration as a backlash against the feudal system.

Today, only the ruins of the castle remain, including the main gate and one of the turrets. Visitors mainly come here for the leafy walking trails and scenic lookouts, with beautiful views over the Naka River. If you climb to the top of the ruins, you can see views of the city beyond. The park is especially lovely in spring when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom.

Fukuoka is also well known for its many events and festivals. The best-known of these is Hakata Gion Yamakasa , a famous two-week long, 700-year-old celebration held each July that draws millions of visitors from across the country to its colorful parades, as well as its traditional races and costumes.

The city is not without its modern attractions, too. Most notable among them is Canal City Hakata , a-city-within-the-city complete with a canal running through the complex, along with great shops, hotels, restaurants, and a theater.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Fukuoka

Located on Japan's northernmost island, Hokkaido, the city of Sapporo offers many things to do for tourists . As the island's largest city, it's a hub of cultural activity, hosting many excellent events and festivals. It also has a distinctive culinary style; a rich theatrical history; and plenty of museums, galleries, and parks.

The focal point here is very much the city's attractive downtown area, the center of which is Odori Park, a large swath of green that's very pleasant to explore. From here, you can also access points of interest such as the Sapporo TV Tower , as well as the city's famous aerial tramway, an easy walk away. The Mount Moiwa Ropeway will eventually get you to the summit's Upper Station, from where you can enjoy incredible views over the city, a real treat at night.

The mountain is also the location of the Mount Moiwa Ski Resort, a popular winter destination, especially since the 1972 Winter Olympics were held in the city. And if you're arriving in winter, be sure to visit the Sapporo Snow Festival , held here each February and drawing in excess of two million revelers.

When you visit Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine, you'll be seeing red – but in a beautiful way. One of the most important shrines in Japan, the Fushimi Inari shrine is found in southern Kyoto, made famous for the thousands (yes, thousands) of scarlet-colored gates that arch over a web of trails. These arch-covered trails command silence, so expect a very peaceful walk towards the forest around Mt. Inari.

Inari is the Shinto god of rice – one of the most important gods in Shintoism. Of the thousands of shrines dedicated to him, Fushimi Inari is decidedly the most important. Most travelers come to see the vermilion gates, but the shrine itself is also open for exploration, and the buildings are quite spectacular.

Visitors can also hike to the top of Mt. Inari, which takes roughly two to three hours round-trip. The route up the mountain is dotted with shrines and smaller gates, as well as spots to grab something to eat.

While a cemetery may not seem like an obvious top attraction, Japan's Koyasan Okunoin is a great exception. One of the most sacred places in the country, this popular pilgrimage spot holds the mausoleum of Kobo Daishi, the founder of Shingon Buddhism.

Daishi, also called Kukai, is one of the most important figures in Japan's Buddhist history. It is said that he sits in eternal meditation while waiting for the Buddha of the Future. Those who make the pilgrimage to his mausoleum do so to ask for salvation in this life.

Upon reaching the cemetery, visitors will cross the Ichinohashi Bridge, which is the first bridge into the cemetery. On the way to the mausoleum, visitors will pass more than 200,000 tombstones. The path leads to Gokusho Offering Hall, where visitors can make offerings, as well as pray for family members they have lost.

A second bridge, the Gobyobashi Bridge, is what separates the most sacred center of the site from the rest of the cemetery. Here is where you'll find the Miroku Stone, as well as Torodo Hall, which is a main worship hall just in front of the mausoleum. The hall is aglow with thousands of lanterns. Behind the hall is the mausoleum itself, and it is a most awesome experience to visit.

You'll feel the power of something – whether you believe or not – as pilgrims from all over the country have come to chant and pray in the presence of Kobo Daishi.

Kyoto is practically overflowing with gorgeous sites and landmarks. The city is a top attraction itself. But one can't come to Kyoto without visiting Kiyomizu-Dera, or the Pure Water Temple.

One of the most important temples in Japan, Kiyomizu-Dera was built in 780 CE on the grounds of the Otowa Waterfall. It was originally built to be part of the Hosso sect of Buddhism, but later formed its own sect in the mid 20th century.

Today the UNESCO World Heritage Site is known for its wooden stage, which overlooks the beautiful rooftops of Kyoto, and the marvelous trees that always put on fantastic color displays in both the fall and cherry blossom season.

On the grounds, visitors will find other important sites, like the Jishu Shrine, as well as the Otowa Waterfall itself, which still gushes at the base of the monument's main hall.

One of Tokyo's most famous districts is the Shinjuku district, known for its electric nightlife, trendy restaurants, and upscale hotels. But the heart of the district is also home to one of Tokyo's most naturally beautiful attractions – the Shinjuku Gyoen park.

Within the park are sprawling green spaces and trails of walking paths that wind around stunning floral displays, ponds, and manicured shrubbery. Come cherry blossom season, the park is one of the best spots to catch the brilliant waves of powder pink.

The park was built during Japan's Edo Period (1603-1867) as the residence of a feudal lord. After that it became a botanical garden and then was an entertaining grounds for Japan's Imperial Family in the early 20th century. It opened in 1949 as a public park.

Within the park are three different styles of garden, including a Japanese landscape, English landscape, and French landscape.

The town of Hakone, located within the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park to the west of Tokyo, is known for its stunning mountains and tranquil hot spring resorts. That is reason enough to visit this stunning small town. But another top draw to this peaceful bit of paradise is the impressive Open-Air Museum.

True to its name, the outdoor museum is a sculpture park that spreads over 17 acres. Opened in 1969, it is one of the first open-air museums in Japan, featuring more than 100 sculptures all over the grounds.

One of the most impressive sculptures here is the Symphonic Sculpture, which allows visitors to climb a stained-glass tower to reach a viewing platform that overlooks the surrounding mountains, as well as the other works of art on the grounds.

In addition to the outdoor exhibits, the museum has an indoor exhibit, including one of the world's most impressive collections of Picasso . You'll find more than 300 of the great Spanish painter's works here, including his oil paintings, prints, ceramics, and sculptures.

Dating back more than 1,000 years, the Naritasan Shinshoji Temple is one of the most popular Buddhist temples in Japan. The purpose for the temple was to protect and pay homage to a statue of the Buddhist god, Fudo Myoo, which is said to have been carved by Kobo Daishi. Within the temple grounds are several buildings, including several different style pagodas, a park, and the main halls.

Approaching the temple complex is like stepping back in time. The half-mile journey from the rail station to the temple complex is a road lined with restaurants and handicraft stores. The same has been true of this street for hundreds of years. While the stores themselves may have a 21st-century appeal, the arrival experience to the temple complex has remained unchanged for centuries.

Japan's Okinawa archipelago consists of more than 150 islands that speckle the area between Taiwan and Japan's mainland. This tropical environment is completely unique to other areas of Japan, home to beautiful beaches and swaying palm trees. The main island is also called Okinawa, and is home to several museums, as well as the Churaumi Aquarium.

The aquarium is widely considered to be the best in Japan, known for its Kuroshio Tank. Within this massive tank are about 60 different species of animals, but most visitors come to see the gigantic whale sharks and gliding manta rays.

Other attractions within the aquarium include a deep water exhibit, which shows off bioluminescent fish, as well as an area dedicated to tiger and bull sharks. Outside are a variety of pools that are home to dolphins, sea turtles, and manatees.

Japan has hundreds of beautiful, historic castles. But none is as complete or mesmerizing as Matsumoto Castle. Built from 1592 to 1614, Matsumoto is located in the city of Nagano. Tip: One of the best times to visit the castle is in the spring , when the grounds of the castle are powdered a soft pink with the bloom of thousands of cherry blossoms.

Inside the castle, visitors have one of the best glimpses back into time. Matsumoto Castle has maintained its wooden interiors, giving a true historic feel to the experience. Matsumoto is considered to be one of five castles that are designated as "National Treasures of Japan." It is the oldest six-story castle tower that remains in the country.

Located in the Arishayama section of Kyoto, the famous Arashiayama Monkey Park is one of the best things to do both in Kyoto, as well as Japan overall. A short hike up a forest-covered mountain opens up to sweeping views over the city, as well as a troop of more than 120 Japanese macaque monkeys.

The macaques roam freely in the monkey park, allowing visitors to get up close and personal with these energetic creatures. You can even feed them with food you purchase at the park. You'll find a small, wooden enclosure where you can feed the monkeys. Outside the enclosure the macaques roam freely, bouncing from branch to branch and scattering across the dirt trails.

The top of the peak also provides a great view of Kyoto and the beautiful mountain peaks in the distance. Visiting the monkey park is wonderful in both spring and fall because you'll have a bird's eye view of the cherry blossoms and the brilliant changing of the leaves.

Perfectly manicured with the highest attention to detail, the gardens in Japan are truly works of art. To visit a Japanese garden is to step into a painting. Arguably the most beautiful garden in Japan is the Kenrokuen Garden in Kanazawa. The grounds used to be a part of Kanazawa Castle and were opened to the public in the 19th century.

What makes the garden so special is that it was designed around what are known as the six essentials to make a perfect garden. These include spaciousness, seclusion, antiquity, abundant water, views, and artificiality.

While exploring the grounds, visitors will pass by beautiful pools, babbling brooks, bridges, teahouses, artfully placed stones and flowerbeds, as well as sweeping views and secluded pockets.

The park is a beautiful spot to witness the cherry blossoms in the spring, as well as the sweeping autumn colors that take over in the fall.

• Shoulder Season Travel : Due to its being blessed with so many amazing points of interest, Japan's top attractions can, during the peak summer months, get rather busy. If you can be flexible with your trip planning, create a sightseeing itinerary that will allow you to explore this beautiful country during the quieter shoulder seasons. You'll not only be rewarded by fewer lineups, but will be able to enjoy things other visitors will miss out on: spring cherry blossoms in places like Nara Park; amazing fall colors in the hillside spa destination of Jozankei Onsen; and historic structures such as Fukuoka Castle blanketed in snow.
• Faster Than a Speeding Bullet (Train) : Thanks to its superb modern and efficient public railway system, Japan is an easy country to get around. Japan Railways is responsible for more than 21,000 kilometers of rail lines, connecting all points to larger cities such as Tokyo. The best of these is the Shinkansen Bullet Train , capable of traveling 320 kilometers per hour, making a trip such as Tokyo to Fukuoka - some 1,170 kilometers away - doable in just over six hours. Be sure to pick up your Japan Rail Pass or book your rail tours before departure to ensure savings.

Despite its small size, Japan experiences almost every kind of weather you could imagine – from rainy typhoon seasons to snowy winters to hot humid summers. Whether you want to ski, hike, or explore the city, Japan has much to offer – and a perfect season for each of these activities.

For most tourists interested in sightseeing, the best time to visit Japan is during the months of March and April , as the weather is milder, the sakura (cherry blossoms) are in bloom, and the big summer crowds haven't arrived yet.

A land of contrasts and surprises, Japan has stunning springs, snowcapped mountains in winter, and plenty to do outdoors in the warmer months. The best time to visit Japan can be any time, depending on your interests.

Spring: Sakura (cherry blossoms) completely transform Japan during the months of March and April, making spring one of the most beautiful seasons in the country . Spring temperatures can vary widely depending on where you're heading, with the northern destinations seeing around 4 degrees Celsius in April, and the southern cities experiencing temperatures in the mid to high teens-in many places like Tokyo, temperatures are usually in the single digits in the early mornings and at night, but a comfortable 13 to 15 degrees during the day.

Summer: Japan's summers are hot, humid, and often wet . Temperatures in the cities often reach into the high 20s and sometimes 30s, but with high humidity present, it feels much hotter. Summer is a great time to head to the mountains and the countryside to escape the urban heat . Between July and October, the coast of Japan is under the threat of typhoons and heavy rains, although the wettest months are usually August and September .

Fall: Fall is a great time to travel around Japan , as you'll get cooler weather, great Autumn colors, and discounted prices. Although spring has similar temperatures, fall is drier , so you won't have to constantly carry an umbrella with you everywhere you go. Rikugien Garden in Tokyo and Lake Kawaguchi at the foot of Mt. Fuji are great places to catch the autumn colors.

Winter: Depending on your destination, Japanese winters can be very cold (as low as -10 degrees Celsius in Sapporo) or mild (Naha regularly sees January temperatures around 15 degrees Celsius). In most places, however, winters are dry-no humidity and very little rain, with snow mostly falling on the countryside but sometimes also blanketing the bigger cities. The alpine regions, including the ski resorts around Hokkaido, are among the best places to visit in Japan in winter. Slopes are great in January and February, with plenty of powdery snow for outdoor sports.

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Endless Day Trip Options : Wherever you choose to visit in Japan, the country's fast rail services open up endless possibilities for day trippers. Even if you are only visiting one city, you may be able to see several important tourist attractions in the surroundings. For more detail in planning your trip, see our articles on day trips from Tokyo , as well as historic Kyoto , and Osaka .

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