Umekoji Park is a spacious urban park in Shimogyo Ward, Kyoto, covering approximately 110,000 square meters. Opened in 1995, it provides a relaxing green space where visitors can enjoy nature, cultural attractions, and seasonal scenery in the heart of the city.
One of the park’s highlights is Suzakunoniwa Garden, a traditional Japanese garden created to commemorate the 1,200th anniversary of Kyoto’s establishment as Japan’s capital. Featuring a pond-centered landscape, carefully arranged stones, and lush seasonal plants, the garden offers a tranquil retreat from the bustle of the city.
Umekoji Park opened in 1995 as part of Kyoto’s urban development plans, with the aim of providing residents and visitors with a welcoming place to relax and enjoy the outdoors.
The park also offers access to a variety of attractions and activities, making it a popular destination for families and travelers. Visitors can combine a peaceful garden stroll with visits to nearby cultural and entertainment facilities, including the Kyoto Railway Museum.
Suzakunoniwa is a Japanese-style garden inspired by the refined culture of the Heian period (794–1185), when Kyoto served as Japan’s imperial capital. Its landscape combines water, stone, and greenery to create an elegant and harmonious setting.
The garden features a pond, waterfalls, stone lanterns, and plants that change with the seasons. Walking along its paths offers different perspectives of the carefully composed scenery, inviting visitors to slow down and appreciate the details of traditional Japanese garden design.
Each season brings a different atmosphere to Suzakunoniwa Garden.
These changing views make the garden an appealing destination throughout the year, whether you are interested in seasonal photography or simply looking for a peaceful place to unwind.
Umekoji Park hosts a variety of events and seasonal activities throughout the year. Depending on the season and schedule, visitors may be able to enjoy flower-viewing gatherings, cultural events, performances, or special nighttime illuminations.
Autumn is particularly attractive for visitors who want to admire the changing leaves, while seasonal events can provide additional reasons to return to the park at different times of the year. Check current event information before your visit, as programs and dates may vary.
Beyond Suzakunoniwa Garden, Umekoji Park offers open lawns, play areas for children, and spaces suitable for relaxing outdoors. Cafés and restaurants in and around the park provide convenient places to take a break during a stroll.
The park also includes accessible facilities, helping visitors with different mobility needs enjoy the grounds. Its combination of open green space, landscaped gardens, and nearby attractions makes it suitable for families, couples, and solo travelers alike.
Umekoji Park and Suzakunoniwa Garden offer a refreshing combination of open green space and traditional Japanese landscape design. Whether you visit to admire autumn leaves, enjoy the fresh greenery of summer, or take a quiet break from sightseeing, this peaceful spot provides a lovely opportunity to experience another side of Kyoto.
9:00-17:00, admission until 16:30. (Inochi-no-Mori, Suzaku-no-Yard)
Mon. (or the following day if the day falls on a national holiday)
Closed: December 28 - January 4
Garden 200 yen
15 min. walk from JR Kyoto Station