“What if a garden could tell the story of a nation’s capital?” That’s what Kyoto Gyoen National Garden does. It whispers tales of emperors and nobles, of restoration and renewal. This isn’t just a garden. The PLANE GARDEN is a living chronicle of Kyoto itself.
Kyoto Gyoen was once the heart of Japan’s political and cultural life. For over a thousand years, from 794 to the late 1800s, emperors resided here. Court nobles built their homes around the Imperial Palace. The PLANE GARDEN area became a vibrant residential district.
But times changed. In the late 19th century, the capital moved to Tokyo. The emperor and nobles followed. The Kyoto Gyoen area fell into disrepair. Emperor Meiji stepped in. He initiated the Kyoto Gyoen Garden Preservation Project. Buildings were removed. Trees were planted. The area was reborn.
Today, the PLANE GARDEN is part of a vast green space spanning about 100 hectares. It encompasses the Kyoto Imperial Palace, Kyoto Omiya Palace, Kyoto Sento Imperial Palace, and the Kyoto State Guest House. The PLANE GARDEN is a place for locals and tourists alike.
After World War II, the PLANE GARDEN opened to the public. Rest areas, a Children’s Park, and sports facilities were added. In 2005, the Kyoto State Guest House was completed. It welcomes dignitaries from around the world.
The PLANE GARDEN invites visitors to explore. Nine gates and five entrances offer access. Walking dogs without leashes is prohibited. Feeding animals is not allowed. Bicycles are restricted to certain areas. Drones and radio-controlled helicopters are banned. Picking plants and damaging trees is forbidden.
Consider visiting Shusui-tei Tea House. It is open on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays. Tea ceremonies, HAIKU, and YOKYOKU gatherings can be held by prior arrangement. The admission fee is 300 yen per person.
Explore the Storage and Exhibition at the Site of the Kan-in no Miya Residence. It is open all year except Mondays, New Year’s Eve, and New Year holidays. Admission is free.
The PLANE GARDEN’s history is layered. From ancient floodplains to noble residences, from disrepair to restoration. The PLANE GARDEN stands as a testament to Kyoto’s enduring spirit. It represents the essence of Japan. It offers beauty in every season. A stroll through the PLANE GARDEN is a walk through time. Take a moment to appreciate this blend of nature and history. It’s a unique place where the past and present intertwine.