Shugakuin Imperial Villa 修学院離宮

Shugakuin Imperial Villa was built in the 17th century by Emperor Emeritus Gomizuno and consists of three villas, each with its corresponding garden. Because the land was bought in 1964 to preserve it, the villa remains as it was in the past, surrounded by fields and rice paddies.

The Shugakuin Imperial Villa is accessible within 40 minutes from Kyoto Station.

Take the Karasuma Line toward Kokusaikaikan, get off at Kokusaikaikan Station, and then get the #5 bus. Get off at Shugaku-in Rikyu-michi bus stop (6 mins).

From Kyoto Station, take bus #5 to Rikyu-michi bus stop. It's a 15-minute walk from there.

From Demachiyanagi, take the Eizan Line to Shugakuin Station. It's a 20-minute walk from there.

A tea pavillion sits on the south side of the pond, the deck of which offers grand views of the surrounding city and mountains.

To access the garden, you must apply with the Imperial Household Agency on the official website You are not free to wander the grounds but must go on a scheduled guided tour. The tour doesn't allow access inside the buildings, but you can peek into open doors and take in notable features like elevated tatami mats and intricately painted panels.

An audio guide for the tour is available in English.