Maruyama Park is Kyoto’s oldest city park, located in the scenic Higashiyama area and covering a vast 8,600 square meters.
Established in December 1886, Maruyama Park was officially designated a park under an Imperial edict. It’s ideally situated next to popular temples and shrines like Yasaka Shrine, Kodaiji Temple, and Chion-in Temple, making it easy to explore together with these historic spots.
Inside this historic park, you’ll find a beautiful Japanese garden where each season brings new scenic views. Here’s a guide to the best sights and ways to enjoy Maruyama Park – perfect for planning your visit!
Discover the History of Maruyama Park
Maruyama Park was established in 1886, making it Kyoto’s oldest city park. It was officially designated as a park by the Meiji government that year.
Since its opening, Maruyama Park has remained a popular destination for sightseeing and relaxation. In the early years, between 1886 and 1912, the park added features like ponds, fountains, and an outdoor music hall, shaping it into the park we enjoy today.
Long before Maruyama Park existed, the area was known as “Makuzugahara” during the Heian Period. In the Edo Period, a temple called Anyoji was built on this land, and the area came to be called “Maruyama,” from which the park takes its name.
Maruyama Park Visitor Information
- Address: Maruyamacho, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, Japan
- Map: Google Maps
- Phone: +81 75-643-5405
- Closed: Open year-round
- Hours: Open 24 hours
- Admission: Free
- Official Website: Maruyama Park
Located in Kyoto’s Higashiyama area, Maruyama Park is open to the public 24 hours a day, every day of the year. Visitors can stroll through the park anytime and enjoy its seasonal beauty.
Note: The Maruyama Park Music Hall requires reservations for use. Rental fees vary based on the event type:
- For paid events: 7% of the total ticket sales (minimum of ¥31,420 if sales do not reach that amount).
- For free events: ¥15,710 on weekends and holidays, ¥13,610 on weekdays.
How to Access Maruyama Park
The best way to reach Maruyama Park from JR Kyoto Station, a central hub for sightseeing in Kyoto, is by bus or train. Since roads near the park can often be crowded, using public transportation is recommended.
For getting to Kyoto Station, you can take a limousine bus from Itami Airport or a JR train from major cities like Osaka and Tokyo. To explore Kyoto City and head to Maruyama Park, consider using the convenient bus or subway passes available.
By Train:
- Keihan Railway: 10-minute walk from Gion-Shijo Station
- Kyoto Subway Tozai Line: 10-minute walk from Higashiyama Station
- Hankyu Railway Kyoto Main Line: 15-minute walk from Kawaramachi Station
By Bus:
- From Kyoto City Bus routes 12, 31, 46, 80, Express 100, 201, 202, 203, 206, or 207, get off at the Gion bus stop and walk 5 minutes.
- From Keihan Bus routes 83, 83A, 84, 84C, 85, 85A, 86, 86A, 86B, 87, 87A, 87B, 88, or 88C, get off at the Gion bus stop and walk 5 minutes.
For Kyoto City Buses, routes 201 to 207 are especially convenient for reaching the Gion area.
Relaxing Spot in Kyoto City: Highlights of Maruyama Park
Located in Kyoto’s Higashiyama area, Maruyama Park is a popular scenic spot known for its beautiful landscapes. Here are some of the top sights to enjoy in this spacious, green park.
1. Famous Cherry Blossoms and Seasonal Scenery
Surrounded by Higashiyama’s natural beauty, Maruyama Park offers stunning seasonal views all year round. Covering 8,600 square meters, this park is especially famous in spring as a cherry blossom viewing spot.
Among the many cherry trees, the large weeping cherry, fondly known as “Gion Shidare,” is a highlight. This second-generation tree, over 80 years old, was planted after the original 200-year-old tree withered. Each year, from late March to early April, the park hosts evening light-ups to enhance the beauty of the cherry blossoms.
In early summer, the park transforms into a sea of green with fresh foliage. Shaded areas throughout the park provide cool spots to rest, even on hot days. Benches covered in vines offer comfortable seating, staying refreshingly cool even when temperatures rise above 30°C. Early summer is also a quieter season, with fewer tourists.
When autumn arrives, the park’s Japanese maples turn bright red. At “Hyotan Pond,” the colorful leaves reflect beautifully in the water on clear days, offering a uniquely Kyoto-style landscape. With its wide open spaces, Maruyama Park feels less crowded than nearby spots like Kodaiji Temple or Yasaka Shrine, allowing for a more relaxed visit.
2. Japanese Garden – A Designated Scenic Spot
The Japanese garden near the center of Maruyama Park is officially designated as a national scenic spot.
Designed by renowned garden designer Ogawa Jihei VII, this garden is a traditional strolling pond garden, making use of the stunning Higashiyama mountains as a natural backdrop. At the center of the garden is a large pond, and as you move deeper, it opens up into a serene, gorge-like landscape.
Built in the early Taisho period, this historic Japanese garden showcases the beauty of Maruyama Park through each season. Toward the back of the garden, a small path winds up a gentle slope alongside a stream, where the soft sound of flowing water creates a calming atmosphere. The further in you go, the fewer tourists you’ll encounter, making it feel like a hidden gem.
From the gourd-shaped pond in the garden’s center, visitors can take in the natural beauty of Higashiyama and the surrounding trees in the park. Each season and time of day brings a different view, adding to the garden’s charm. Benches around the pond offer a perfect spot to rest and take in the scenery.
In spring, a weeping cherry tree blooms in pink blossoms near the entrance to the garden, alongside a large dove statue that serves as a landmark even outside of cherry blossom season.
3. Statues of Historical Heroes and Must-See Spots in Maruyama Park
At the top of a hill in Maruyama Park, you’ll find statues of Sakamoto Ryoma and Nakaoka Shintaro, two samurai heroes from Japan’s late Edo period. These statues were originally commissioned in 1934 by former Navy Minister Shigetaro Yoshimatsu to honor the two men as founders of Japan’s navy. Though confiscated during WWII for metal resources, they were rebuilt in 1962 through the efforts of the Kochi Prefecture Association. Ryoma stands while Shintaro sits—a creative way to balance their height difference! Take a moment to reflect on Japan’s rich history as you admire these two heroes.
Nearby, you can stop by Gincharyo, a teahouse offering Kyoto specialties like nishin soba—soba noodles served with herring prepared over a week for perfect flavor, with a broth made from kelp and bonito. They also have take-out treats like dango (sweet rice dumplings), zenzai (sweet red bean soup), and seasonal desserts such as shaved ice for a refreshing summer snack. It’s an ideal spot for a break during your park stroll.
Across from Gincharyo, there’s a rest area serving ice cream and dango, perfect for a quick snack. The park also features the Maruyama Park Outdoor Music Hall, where music events are held regularly. In pleasant weather, take the time to explore these highlights and enjoy the scenery of Maruyama Park.
Recommended Tourist Spots Around Maruyama Park
The Maruyama Park area in Kyoto’s Higashiyama district is surrounded by famous sightseeing spots that attract countless visitors. From Chion-in, the head temple of the Jodo sect with its National Treasure buildings, to Yasaka Shrine, which borders the park, there’s no shortage of cultural highlights nearby.
1. Chion-in Temple: The Head Temple of the Jodo Sect with a National Treasure
Located just a five-minute walk from the “Chion-in-mae” bus stop (Kyoto City Bus No. 206), Chion-in Temple sits on a hill next to Maruyama Park. Founded by the revered priest Honen, it is the main temple of the Jodo sect. Surrounded by the lush slopes of Mount Kacho, one of the Higashiyama mountains, the grounds offer a serene atmosphere that feels far removed from the city’s hustle and bustle.
The main building, Miedo Hall, enshrines an image of Honen and is designated as a National Treasure. Built in 1639 by Tokugawa Iemitsu, this grand hall is currently undergoing major repairs, so interior viewing is temporarily unavailable.
Another impressive structure is the Sanmon Gate, constructed in 1622 under orders from the second Tokugawa shogun, Hidetada. Designated a National Treasure, this gate is one of the largest wooden gates in Japan and exudes a powerful presence as you approach it. Known as the “Three Gates,” it symbolizes the three stages of enlightenment: Kūmon (the gate of emptiness), Musomon (the gate of formlessness), and Mugamon (the gate of no desires).
Visitor Information for Chion-in Temple
- Address: 400 Rinka-cho, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, Japan
- Map: Google Maps
- Access: 5 minutes from “Chion-in-mae” (Kyoto City Bus No. 206), 8 minutes from Higashiyama Station on the Tozai Subway Line
- Phone: +81 75-531-2111
- Hours: 5:00 AM – 4:00 PM (may vary by season)
- Admission: Free
- Official Website: Chion-in Temple
Visit Yasaka Shrine: A Symbol of Higashiyama, Known as “Gion-san”
Yasaka Shrine, affectionately called “Gion-san” by locals, is a beloved landmark in Kyoto’s Higashiyama area. Located right by the “Gion” bus stop (Kyoto City Bus routes 206 and 100), the shrine is dedicated to Susanoo-no-Mikoto, a deity said to bring various blessings.
As you approach Yasaka Shrine from Shijo Street, you’ll first see the striking Nishi Romon (West Tower Gate), designated an Important Cultural Property. Passing through this gate, you’ll enter the main grounds, where you’ll find the Honden (Main Hall), another Important Cultural Property. Legend has it that a sacred pond beneath the hall is home to a blue dragon spirit that protects the Higashiyama area.
If you’re interested in beauty, don’t miss Utsukushi Gozen-sha, a smaller shrine dedicated to three goddesses of beauty and fortune. It’s considered a “beauty power spot,” where the “Beauty Water” spring nearby is believed to offer blessings for radiant skin when a few drops are applied.
Visitor Information for Yasaka Shrine
- Address: 625 Gionmachi Kitagawa, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, Japan
- Map: Google Maps
- Access: Right by the “Gion” bus stop (Kyoto City Bus routes 206 and 100), 5 minutes from Gion-Shijo Station on the Keihan Railway
- Phone: +81 75-561-6155
- Hours: Open year-round, free to enter
- Official Website: Yasaka Shrine
Discover Shoren-in Temple: A Historic Tendai Temple with National Treasures
Shoren-in Temple, located just a 5-minute walk from Higashiyama Station on the Tozai subway line, is a historic Tendai Buddhist temple. This temple is one of the three “Monzeki” temples of Enryaku-ji on Mt. Hiei, meaning that its head priests traditionally came from the imperial family or noble households. With its deep connections to the Japanese imperial family, Shoren-in holds significant cultural treasures, including the famous “Ao Fudo,” a National Treasure.
Situated in the popular Higashiyama area, Shoren-in Temple is just a 7-minute walk from Maruyama Park and close to other sites like Chion-in and Yasaka Shrine. It’s easy to add Shoren-in to your Higashiyama sightseeing itinerary.
The temple grounds feature several buildings, a beautiful strolling garden with ponds, and historic buildings. However, photography is not allowed in most areas except the garden, so please be mindful when visiting. Each season brings a different beauty to the garden, which is designated as a National Historic Site.
One of the highlights is the “Ao Fudo Myo-o,” a blue-colored image of Fudo Myo-o (the Immovable Wisdom King), said to be a manifestation of Dainichi Nyorai (the Great Sun Buddha). This blue depiction is highly revered and is unique to Shoren-in Temple, making it a must-see for visitors.
Shoren-in Temple
- Address: Awataguchi Sanjobocho, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, Japan
- Map: Google Maps
- Access: 5 minutes from Higashiyama Station (Tozai Line), 3 minutes from the “Jingu-michi” bus stop (Kyoto City Bus routes 5, 46, 100), or 10 minutes from Maruyama Park
- Phone: +81 75-561-2345
- Hours: Open daily, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (last entry at 4:30 PM); special hours for evening light-ups in spring and autumn (6:00 PM – 10:00 PM, last entry at 9:30 PM)
- Admission: Adults ¥500, junior high and high school students ¥400, elementary school students ¥200
- Official Website: Shoren-in Temple
Recommended Food Spots Around Maruyama Park
The Higashiyama area, home to Maruyama Park, is rich in both sightseeing spots and dining options. Along Shijo Street—Kyoto’s main street—and near temples and shrines, you’ll find a range of cafes and restaurants. This area offers a unique Kyoto dining experience, from historic shops serving specialty dishes like “oyako-don” (chicken and egg rice bowl) to parfaits featuring Uji matcha.
1. Gion Shimogawara Hisago – Established in 1930, Famous for Fluffy Oyako-don!
Just a 13-minute walk from Gion Shijo Station or a 3-minute walk from the Higashiyama Yasui bus stop, Gion Shimogawara Hisago is a long-established Japanese restaurant with roots dating back to 1930.
Their signature dish, oyako-don (¥1,060), features soft, fluffy eggs simmered in dashi broth over tender chicken, creating a savory and satisfying flavor. Hisago also offers seasonal favorites like cold seiro soba in summer and hearty nishin soba in cooler months.
Gion Shimogawara Hisago – Restaurant Information
- Address: 484 Shimogawara-cho, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, Japan
- Map: Google Maps
- Access: 13 minutes from Gion Shijo Station (Keihan Line), 3 minutes from “Higashiyama Yasui” bus stop (Kyoto City Bus 206)
- Phone: +81 75-561-2109
- Closed: Mondays and Fridays
- Hours: 11:30 AM – 7:00 PM (Last Order 6:30 PM)
- Budget: ¥1,000 – ¥1,999
- Non-Smoking: Fully non-smoking
Just Steps from Maruyama Park’s Famous Weeping Cherry Tree! – Cafe Kaikatei
Cafe Kaikatei is a cozy spot just a 10-minute walk from Gion Shijo Station and located right by Maruyama Park’s iconic weeping cherry tree. It’s an ideal place to relax with a drink or dessert during your sightseeing.
The café features a terrace, making it especially appealing during cherry blossom season or when the autumn leaves are at their peak.
Their “Strawberry Milk Shaved Ice” (¥650) is a summer-only treat with fluffy shaved ice topped with sweet syrup—a refreshing way to cool down on hot days!
Cafe Kaikatei – Information
- Address: Inside Maruyama Park, Gion-machi Kitagawa, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, Japan
- Map: Google Maps
- Access: 10-minute walk from Gion Shijo Station (Keihan Line), 6-minute walk from “Gion” bus stop (Kyoto City Bus 206)
- Phone: +81 75-561-2115
- Closed: Mondays (Additional irregular closures)
- Hours: Mon-Fri 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM; Sat, Sun, and holidays 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM (extended hours during peak seasons)
- Budget: Daytime ¥1,000 – ¥1,999; Evening ¥2,000 – ¥2,999
- Non-Smoking: Fully non-smoking
Savor a Special Uji Matcha Parfait at Saryo Tsujiri Gion Main Store
Just a 5-minute walk from Gion Shijo Station, Saryo Tsujiri was established in 1978 by the famous Gion Tsujiri tea shop to provide a place where customers can enjoy matcha in unique ways. Instead of just drinking matcha, here you can savor it in a variety of sweets made with high-quality Uji matcha.
The popular Tsujiri Parfait (¥1,232) is a special treat layered with creamy matcha, matcha jelly, and more. Each layer offers a new and delightful flavor as you enjoy it!
Below the café, you’ll find Gion Tsujiri’s main store, where you can purchase matcha sweets and tea as souvenirs.
Saryo Tsujiri Gion Main Store – Information
- Address: 2nd & 3rd Floor, Gion Tsujiri Main Store, 573-3 Gion-machi Minamigawa, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, Japan
- Map: Google Maps
- Access: 5-minute walk from Gion Shijo Station (Keihan Line)
- Phone: +81 75-561-2257
- Open: Year-round, 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Budget: ¥1,000 – ¥1,999
- Non-Smoking: Fully non-smoking
Located in Kyoto’s Higashiyama area, Maruyama Park is a beautiful destination known for its famous weeping cherry blossoms in spring and a Japanese garden recognized as a National Scenic Spot. The park is conveniently located near temples and shrines like Yasaka Shrine and Kodaiji Temple, making it easy to visit.
With a spacious area of 8,600 square meters, Maruyama Park is perfect for a relaxing stroll and taking in the natural beauty of Kyoto. Don’t miss experiencing the charm of this scenic park!
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