In 794, Emperor Kanmu established his government in Kyoto, and built a massive garden for himself. It was the first of its kind in Japan, and was of course beautiful and special. The current garden, Shinsen-en, is just a remnant of what it once was, but there are still little touches of brilliance: A large pond with carp, a red bridge over the pond, a small temple and a small shrine, statues - all packed into this one fairly compact space. It is just down the road from Nijo Castle, so if you are in the area, be sure to visit both!
- 1 min read
Shinsen-en Garden and Pond, Kyoto
Close your eyes and imagine what once was...
Community writer
Join the discussion
Justin Velgus
9 years ago
Nice details hidden away from standard viewing. I like it!
1 comment in total
Book your trip
Find a nearby hotel
Explore some of the best nearby hotels and deals for the perfect place to stay in Japan.
Top Articles
-
1
Special Experience in Shinjuku Gyoen
Tokyo - Sponsored -
2
Kamenoi Hotel Nachi-Katsuura and Wakayama Sightseeing
Wakayama - Sponsored -
3
Akita: Art and Culture
Akita - Sponsored -
4
A Global Call for Creativity at Expo 2025 Osaka
Planning -
5
Akita: Gastronomy and Onsen
Akita - Sponsored -
6
Akita: Nature and Akita Inu
Akita - Sponsored -
7
Airbnb’s Top Snowy Stays in Japan
Accommodation -
8
Miyoko Schinner’s Vegan Japan Tour
Culture -
9
Meeting The People of Hokkaido
Hokkaido -
10
Eastern Hokkaido Nature and Activity Experiences
Hokkaido
-
1
Tokyo Christmas Market
Tokyo -
2
Guide to Bringing Medicines Into Japan
Planning -
3
The Ultimate Guide to Thrifting in Tokyo
Shopping -
4
Your Name: Real-Life Locations in Tokyo
Tokyo -
5
Nabana no Sato Illumination
Mie -
6
Shibuya Blue Cave Illumination
Tokyo -
7
Tokyo Auto Salon
Chiba -
8
Japanese Urban Legends
Culture -
9
Daikoku Car Meet
Kanagawa -
10
Iwatayama Monkey Park
Kyoto