Located in northern Kyoto, the Kyoto Prefectural Botanical Garden is one of Japan’s oldest botanical gardens. Opened in 1924, it covers approximately 24.2 hectares and features an extensive collection of plants, with around 11,000 to 12,000 species and approximately 100,000 individual plants.
The garden emphasizes natural plant communities and seasonal beauty. Visitors can enjoy colorful flowers, a perennial garden featuring hundreds of varieties, and areas of natural woodland. Plant-horticulture consultations are also offered every Wednesday, providing opportunities to learn more about gardening and plant care.
The Kyoto Prefectural Botanical Garden opened in 1924 during the Taisho period. Since its establishment, it has served as a center for botanical research, education, and recreation, introducing visitors to the diversity and beauty of the plant world.
The garden was temporarily closed during World War II but reopened after the war. It continues to welcome local residents and travelers who wish to enjoy nature and learn about plants in the heart of Kyoto.
The grounds are divided into several areas, each offering a different atmosphere and botanical experience. Highlights include a traditional Japanese garden, European-style gardens, a rose garden, a perennial garden, and a large greenhouse.
Seasonal displays and special exhibitions provide fresh discoveries throughout the year, making the garden an appealing destination for repeat visits.
The Japanese garden showcases traditional landscaping techniques in a peaceful setting. Designed in the style of a strolling pond garden, it features a pond, bridges, stone lanterns, and a waterfall.
Seasonal flowers and autumn foliage bring changing colors to the landscape, creating a tranquil place to stroll, admire the scenery, and appreciate the harmony between plants and traditional Japanese garden design.
The European-style gardens feature Western landscaping influences, with colorful flower beds, a rose garden, and open lawns. Their carefully arranged layouts offer a striking contrast to the more naturalistic woodland areas and traditional Japanese garden.
The rose garden is especially attractive in spring and autumn, when many varieties come into bloom. These displays are popular with visitors who enjoy flowers and garden photography.
The garden’s large greenhouse, completed in autumn 1991, is one of its major attractions. It houses tropical plants, cacti, succulents, and other unusual species that are not commonly seen growing outdoors in Japan.
Inside, different environments recreate conditions found in tropical rainforests and arid regions. Special seasonal displays also introduce visitors to a variety of fascinating plants throughout the year.
The Kyoto Prefectural Botanical Garden plays an important role in botanical education and research. Lectures, guided tours, and workshops help visitors of different ages expand their knowledge of plants and the natural environment.
Research activities include plant conservation, propagation, and the protection of rare species. These efforts support the preservation of botanical diversity while helping the public understand the importance of protecting plant life.
Events are held throughout the year to celebrate the changing seasons. Spring flower displays, autumn foliage illuminations, and Christmas illuminations offer different ways to experience the garden.
Gardening classes and plant-observation activities are also organized, giving both children and adults opportunities to learn through hands-on experiences. Event schedules and availability may vary from year to year.
The Kyoto Prefectural Botanical Garden is located in Shimogamo Hanki-cho, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto.
It can be reached from Kitayama Station on the Kyoto Municipal Subway Karasuma Line, followed by a short walk. City buses also serve the surrounding area, and parking is available for visitors arriving by car.
With its seasonal flowers, peaceful gardens, extensive plant collections, and educational activities, the Kyoto Prefectural Botanical Garden offers a refreshing escape from the city’s busy streets. It is an enjoyable destination for plant enthusiasts, families, and anyone wishing to experience Kyoto’s natural beauty throughout the year.
9:00-17:00, admission until 16:00 *Greenhouse: 10:00-16:00 (admission until 15:30)
December 28 - January 4
Adults: 200 yen *Greenhouse admission: 200 yen for adults, 150 yen for high school students
10 min. walk from Kitayama Sta. on the Subway Karasuma Line *In front of the Botanical Garden