Motorisatbo Kyū-Chikurin’in Garden (Shiga Prefecture) Complete Guide | The Charm of a Designated Scenic Spot and Reflection Photography
Kyū-Chikurin’in Garden (Former Chikurin’in Garden) of Motorisatbo, located in Sakamoto, Otsu City, Shiga Prefecture, is a historic landmark representative of the Sakamoto area, which flourished as a monzen-machi (temple town) at the foot of Enryaku-ji Temple on Mount Hiei. The expansive garden spanning approximately 3,300 square meters, designated as a National Scenic Spot, along with the seasonal landscapes viewed from the main residence, particularly the reflection photography during the autumn foliage season, captivate many tourists.
This article comprehensively covers essential information for a visit, from the historical background of Kyū-Chikurin’in, highlights of the garden, photography spots, access methods, to nearby tourist attractions.
What is Motorisatbo Kyū-Chikurin’in? History and Origins
The Relationship between Mount Hiei’s Enryaku-ji Temple and Satbō
Kyū-Chikurin’in has accumulated history as one of the satbō (temple town residences) of Enryaku-ji Temple on Mount Hiei. Satbō refers to residences established in the foothills by high priests and monks who had undergone rigorous Buddhist training on Mount Hiei and later retired to live in the surrounding areas.
While “yamabō” (mountain temples) for strict Buddhist ascetic practice were established within Mount Hiei, many satbō were built in the Sakamoto area, where the region flourished greatly as a monzen-machi (temple town) of Enryaku-ji. Today, numerous satbō remain in the Sakamoto area, and Kyū-Chikurin’in is among them as a representative structure boasting the largest garden.
Historical Changes of Kyū-Chikurin’in
Kyū-Chikurin’in was originally constructed as a retirement residence for a high priest of Enryaku-ji. Within the estate, the main residence, two teahouses, and gazebos (azumaya) were arranged, with a strolling garden created by skillfully utilizing the topography.
After the Meiji period, it became privately owned, but its historical and cultural value was recognized, and the garden was designated as a National Scenic Spot. Currently managed by Otsu City and open to the public, it provides visitors with an opportunity to experience the satbō culture of yesteryear and beautiful Japanese gardens.
Value as a Nationally Designated Scenic Spot
Kyū-Chikurin’in Garden was designated as a National Scenic Spot in recognition of its high garden design techniques and historical value. The strolling garden, featuring a waterfall arrangement and an artificial hill, skillfully utilizes the natural topography and is designed to allow visitors to enjoy seasonal changes, embodying the aesthetics of Japanese gardening.
The Charm and Highlights of Kyū-Chikurin’in Garden
An Expansive Strolling Garden of Approximately 3,300 Square Meters
The greatest charm of Kyū-Chikurin’in is the strolling garden spreading across approximately 3,300 square meters. This garden skillfully utilizes the undulating terrain, designed so that visitors walking along the garden paths can enjoy the scenery from various angles.
Within the garden, waterfall arrangements and artificial hills are positioned, and water diverted from the Omiya River brings moisture and movement to the garden. This water flow gives vitality to the entire garden, and together with plantings that change through the seasons, it presents a different face with each visit.
Characteristics of the Strolling Garden with Water from the Omiya River
A noteworthy feature of Kyū-Chikurin’in Garden is the water landscape created by drawing clear water from the Omiya River. By incorporating water from the Omiya River flowing at the foot of Mount Hiei into the garden, a garden space unified with nature is created.
Water falls as a waterfall, flows as a small stream through the garden, and gathers in a pond. This water flow adds freshness and dynamic beauty to the garden, and in summer becomes an important element in providing a sense of coolness. The sound of water resonates in the silence, calming the hearts of visitors.
A Spectacular View from the Main Residence
An experience not to be missed when visiting Kyū-Chikurin’in is viewing the garden from the main residence. Sitting on the veranda of the main residence, visitors can view the entire garden from an open space. The garden viewed from this perspective is beautiful like a single scroll painting, and one can enjoy different colors with each season.
The main residence retains the style of traditional Japanese architecture, and viewing the garden from the tatami room evokes the finest aspects of Japanese culture. In a leisurely atmosphere, visitors can immerse themselves in the garden’s beauty, a luxurious experience.
A Popular Reflection Photography Spot
In recent years, reflection (refractive) photography has become particularly popular at Kyū-Chikurin’in. This technique uses the phenomenon of garden scenery being reflected on the floor of the main residence’s low table or veranda, and has drawn attention as an Instagram-worthy photography spot.
Particularly during the autumn foliage season, brightly colored maple and Japanese maple leaves are reflected on the low table, creating a fantastical scene woven by reality and mirror images. This photography spot doubles the beauty of the garden and is a reason many photography enthusiasts and tourists visit.
The key to photography is adjusting the angle of the low table and the play of light. The soft morning light or late afternoon slanted light particularly creates beautiful reflections.
Two Teahouses and Gazebos (Azumaya)
Within the garden, two teahouses and gazebos (azumaya) are positioned. These structures function not only as rest stops during garden walks but also as important elements in the garden’s landscape composition.
The teahouses serve as spaces to experience tea culture and as viewpoints from which to view the garden from different perspectives. The gazebo is positioned on a high point in the garden, and the view of the entire garden from there is also noteworthy.
Kyū-Chikurin’in Garden Through the Seasons
Spring’s Fresh Green and Cherry Blossoms
In spring, the beauty of fresh green stands out in Kyū-Chikurin’in Garden. Trees that have slumbered through winter suddenly sprout, covering the garden with vivid green. During cherry blossom season, the cherry trees within the garden bloom with pale pink flowers, announcing the arrival of spring.
The contrast between the green of fresh foliage and the pink of cherry blossoms is a beautiful sight symbolizing spring in Japan. During this period, the garden overflows with vitality, giving visitors a sense of hope and energy.
Summer’s Deep Green and Coolness
In summer, Kyū-Chikurin’in Garden becomes a cool space enveloped in deep green. Water drawn from the Omiya River flows through the garden, and the sound of water invites coolness. Dense green trees block sunlight, maintaining a coolness within the garden like a natural air conditioner.
Spending time viewing the garden from the main residence’s veranda is a luxurious moment that makes one forget the hustle and bustle of the city. Early morning or evening garden walks are particularly recommended in summer.
Autumn’s Maple Season: A Spectacular Sight
The period when Kyū-Chikurin’in Garden is busiest with tourists is the autumn foliage season. Typically from mid-November through late November, the maple and Japanese maple trees within the garden turn vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow.
The historic architecture harmonizes beautifully with the autumn foliage, creating a landscape truly representative of Japanese autumn. Particularly, reflection photography from the main residence is most beautiful during this period, and the colors of maple leaves reflected on the low table are breathtaking.
The best time for foliage varies with climate, but checking the latest color status on the official website or tourism association before visiting is recommended. The foliage season attracts crowds, so visiting shortly after opening or on weekdays allows for relatively unhurried viewing.
Winter’s Silence and Snowy Landscape
In winter, Kyū-Chikurin’in Garden becomes a space enveloped in silence with profound atmosphere. With fallen leaves, the framework of the garden is exposed, allowing one to more clearly appreciate the skill of the garden design.
When snow falls, the garden transforms into a silver world, revealing yet another beauty. The snow-dressed garden has an austere beauty like ink painting, allowing one to enjoy the quiet emotion unique to winter.
Motorisatbo Kyū-Chikurin’in Garden Autumn Foliage Q&A
When is the best time to see the autumn foliage?
The best time to see autumn foliage at Kyū-Chikurin’in Garden is typically from mid-November to late November. However, timing can vary depending on that year’s temperature and weather, so it’s recommended to check the latest foliage information before visiting.
What’s the best time for reflection photography?
Reflection photography at the main residence is recommended during soft morning light or late afternoon slanted light. When direct sunlight is too strong, reflection weakens, and interestingly, overcast days can also produce beautiful photographs. Weekday mornings during the foliage season are relatively uncrowded, allowing for unhurried photography.
Is dining allowed within the garden?
Dining within the garden is basically prohibited. However, drinking water at designated rest areas is permitted. Please confirm details with the on-site staff.
Is wheelchair access possible?
Access to the main residence is possible, but the garden has undulating terrain, and some areas are difficult for wheelchairs to navigate. It’s recommended to contact the facility before visiting.
Motorisatbo Kyū-Chikurin’in Garden Access Information for Autumn Foliage
Basic Information
- Address: 5-2-13 Sakamoto, Otsu City, Shiga Prefecture
- Opening Hours: 9:00 AM–5:00 PM (reception until 4:30 PM)
- Closed: Mondays (if Monday is a national holiday, open with Tuesday closure instead)
- Admission: Adults ¥330, Elementary school children ¥160
- Inquiries: 077-578-0955
Access by Train
Using Keihan Ishiyama Line:
- Approximately 10 minutes walk from “Sakamoto-Hieizan-guchi Station”
- Head northeast from the station, passing through Sakamoto’s historic townscape to arrive
Using JR:
- Approximately 20 minutes walk from “Hieizaka Sakamoto Station” on the JR Lake West Line
- Head east from the station toward the Sakamoto area
The Keihan line is more convenient, but the walk from the JR station also allows enjoyment of Sakamoto’s historic townscape.
Access by Car and Parking
Access by Car:
- Approximately 20 minutes from “Kyoto East IC” on the Meishin Expressway
- Approximately 5 minutes from “Sakamoto North IC” on the Lake West Road
Parking:
- Parking for Kyū-Chikurin’in is limited, so use of nearby public parking is recommended
- Hiyoshi Shrine parking (fee) is relatively nearby with access on foot
- During foliage season, crowds are expected, so use of public transportation is advised
Facilities Near Motorisatbo Kyū-Chikurin’in Garden Accessible via Autumn Foliage Route
Hiyoshi Shrine
Approximately 5 minutes walk from Kyū-Chikurin’in, Hiyoshi Shrine is the head shrine of approximately 3,800 Hiyoshi, Hie, and Sanno shrines nationwide. The grounds contain the National Treasure East Main Hall and West Main Hall, and approximately 3,000 maple trees color the grounds during the foliage season.
Hiyoshi Shrine’s autumn foliage is known as among the most beautiful in the Kansai region, and visiting it together with Kyū-Chikurin’in allows full enjoyment of Sakamoto’s foliage. The spacious grounds allow appreciation of foliage from various angles.
Enryaku-ji Temple, Mount Hiei
Enryaku-ji Temple, deeply connected to Kyū-Chikurin’in’s history, is the head temple of Tendai Buddhism and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Access is available via Sakamoto cable car or Hieizан Drive Way.
Enryaku-ji comprises three major divisions (Toto, Saitō, and Yokawa) with sixteen valleys and numerous National Treasures and Important Cultural Properties. From the summit at 848 meters, one can overlook Lake Biwa and Kyoto cityscape, and during foliage season, the entire mountain displays a magnificent landscape of changing colors.
Ohmizukami Shrine
Located on the shores of Lake Biwa in Otsu City, Ohmizukami Shrine is a shrine dedicated to Emperor Tenji and known as the setting for “Chihayafuru.” It is approximately 15 minutes by car from Kyū-Chikurin’in.
Ohmizukami Shrine is famous as the sacred place of competitive poetry card matching (karuta), where the Master and Queen title matches are held annually. The grounds contain a clock museum displaying valuable clock-related materials.
Hieizан Drive Way
The Hieizан Drive Way, a toll road approximately 8.1 kilometers connecting Otsu City to Mount Hiei’s summit, allows scenic drives with views of Lake Biwa and Kyoto cityscape. During foliage season, the mountains display beautiful changing colors.
Several viewpoints are located along the drive way where cars can stop to enjoy the scenery. It’s also popular as a night-viewing spot and is recognized as a “Japan Night View Heritage.”
Autumn Foliage Spots Near Motorisatbo Kyū-Chikurin’in Garden
Autumn Foliage at Hiyoshi Shrine
As previously mentioned, Hiyoshi Shrine is the nearest foliage spot from Kyū-Chikurin’in. The sight of approximately 3,000 maple trees within the grounds displaying colors is impressive, with the combination of the Sanno torii gate and foliage being a particularly popular photography spot.
Hiyoshi Shrine hosts a “Maple Festival” during foliage season and provides nighttime illumination events. One can enjoy autumn foliage different from daytime in a fantastical atmosphere.
Autumn Foliage at Saijoji Temple
Saijoji Temple, located in the Sakamoto area and the head temple of the Tendai Shinseiji school, is also known as being connected to Akechi Mitsuhide. It is approximately 15 minutes walk from Kyū-Chikurin’in.
The grounds house the graves of Akechi Mitsuhide and his clan, making it popular with history enthusiasts. During foliage season, the garden and approach paths within the grounds display beautiful colors, allowing quiet enjoyment of autumn foliage.
Autumn Foliage on Mount Hiei
Mount Hiei as a whole becomes an foliage spot, with different foliage landscapes enjoyed in various areas of Enryaku-ji. Due to higher elevation, foliage begins earlier than in the Sakamoto area and can be enjoyed over an extended period.
The Yokawa area is particularly known as a quiet autumn foliage destination, with impressive foliage around the Ganzan Daishi Hall. The views from the Hieizан Drive Way and Sakamoto cable car are also splendid, allowing full enjoyment of foliage during transit.
Autumn Foliage at Mii-dera (Onjoji Temple)
Located on the shores of Lake Biwa in Otsu City, Mii-dera (Onjoji Temple) is the head temple of the Tendai Jimon school and the 14th sacred site of the Western Japan Kannon Pilgrimage. It is approximately 20 minutes by car from Kyū-Chikurin’in.
The expansive grounds contain numerous National Treasures and Important Cultural Properties, and approximately 1,000 maple and Japanese maple trees display colors during the foliage season. The combination of views of Lake Biwa from Kannon Hall and foliage is spectacular. Nighttime illumination is provided, allowing appreciation of fantastical foliage.
Hot Springs within a 10km Radius of Motorisatbo Kyū-Chikurin’in Garden Autumn Foliage
Yumoto-kan
Yumoto-kan, a day-use hot spring facility within Otsu City, is approximately 15 minutes by car from Kyū-Chikurin’in and ideal to visit after foliage viewing.
The facility features source-fed hot springs where one can relax tired muscles. A dining area is also available serving dishes using local ingredients.
Dantokukan Kikunoya
Dantokukan Kikunoya, a hot spring inn located on the shores of Lake Biwa, is popular and offers day-use bathing. Approximately 20 minutes by car from Kyū-Chikurin’in, visitors can combine foliage viewing with hot springs for a full day experience. It’s also well-regarded as a lodging facility for those wishing longer stays.
Lake Biwa Hotel
Lake Biwa Hotel, a resort hotel representing Otsu City on Lake Biwa’s shore, features the natural hot spring “Lapis Onsen” within the facility, available to both lodgers and day-use visitors. Approximately 25 minutes by car from Kyū-Chikurin’in, one can enjoy hot springs while viewing Lake Biwa’s spectacular scenery. The restaurant and café are well-equipped for leisurely relaxation.
The Charm and Historic Exploration of the Sakamoto Area
Sakamoto as the Monzen-machi (Temple Town) of Mount Hiei’s Enryaku-ji
Sakamoto has flourished since the Heian period as a monzen-machi of Enryaku-ji on Mount Hiei. The area prospered with Enryaku-ji monks and pilgrims, and numerous satbō were built. Today, over 50 satbō remain, forming a unique historic landscape.
The Sakamoto townscape is also known for stone-stacking techniques. Stone walls built by a stonework group called the Anō-shū remain throughout the town, and their techniques were also used in the construction of Azuchi Castle and Osaka Castle.
Important Preservation District for Groups of Traditional Buildings
Part of the Sakamoto district is designated as an Important Preservation District for Groups of Traditional Buildings, with historic townscape preserved. The landscape woven by traditional structures including satbō and stone walls is a precious space where one can experience Japan’s history and culture.
Walking through Sakamoto’s townscape when visiting Kyū-Chikurin’in provides deeper understanding of its history and culture.
Precautions and Etiquette When Visiting
Photography Etiquette
Kyū-Chikurin’in is a popular photography spot, but consideration for other visitors is necessary. Particularly with reflection photography, avoid occupying the main residence’s low table for extended periods. During busy times, practice a spirit of sharing so everyone can enjoy the experience.
Tripod use may be prohibited; check in advance. Also, be careful not to damage garden plants or enter restricted areas.
Clothing and Belongings
The garden has undulating terrain with gravel paths and stone steps. Visiting in easy-to-walk shoes is recommended. Particularly during foliage season when temperatures drop, remember warm clothing.
Shoes must be removed when entering the main residence, so slip-on shoes are convenient. Bring a parasol or hat and drinks for garden exploration.
Tips to Avoid Crowds
Particularly during foliage season, crowds are expected. Visiting around 9 AM shortly after opening or visiting on weekdays tends to be relatively less crowded. Additionally, visiting on rainy days has fewer visitors, and rain-wet gardens also have their own charm.
Check the official website for the latest information beforehand and plan visits accordingly. It’s recommended to do so.
Conclusion: Experiencing Japanese Beauty at Motorisatbo Kyū-Chikurin’in Garden
Motorisatbo Kyū-Chikurin’in Garden is a premier autumn foliage destination representative of Shiga Prefecture and a precious spot where visitors can enjoy the landscape woven by a nationally designated scenic garden, beautiful garden composition, and historic structures. Reflection photography during foliage season in particular is a worthwhile experience.
In the Sakamoto area, which flourished as a monzen-machi of Mount Hiei’s Enryaku-ji, numerous attractions exist beyond Kyū-Chikurin’in. Visiting together with surrounding attractions such as Hiyoshi Shrine, Saijoji Temple, and Mount Hiei’s Enryaku-ji will make for a more fulfilling trip.
Access from the Kansai region is excellent, making it suitable for day trips from Kyoto or Osaka. Visit Kyū-Chikurin’in Garden, which displays beauty through all seasons, and experience Japan’s traditional culture and natural beauty.
