Hakuryuen (Kyoto Prefecture) Complete Guide | Thoroughly Explained: Access, Highlights, and Reservation Methods
Hakuryuen, located in Kurama Ninose-cho, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto City, is a hidden gem of a Japanese garden floating on the foothills of Anyo-ji Temple in the village of Ninose, just before Kurama, where it is said that the gods of the mountains have dwelled since ancient times. This Japanese garden, owned by the long-established apparel manufacturer Aono Corporation, is normally closed to the public, but during special spring and autumn openings, it captivates visitors with breathtaking beauty.
This article thoroughly explains everything you should know before visiting Hakuryuen, from its history and highlights to access methods, how to make reservations, and nearby tourist attractions.
About Hakuryuen | History and Background
The Founding and Aono Shoichi’s Vision
The history of Hakuryuen dates back to 1962 (Showa 37). It began when the late Shoichi Aono, founder of Aono Corporation, came into possession of the surrounding land through fortuitous circumstances. Learning of the historical legends and beliefs passed down in this area, Aono decided to undertake the restoration of the altar, land preparation, and development, not for honor or profit, but with constant thought for the historical facts and countless souls dwelling in this place.
Characteristics and Composition of the Garden
Hakuryuen is a vast Japanese garden harmonized with nature, carefully maintained by employees and their families. Throughout the garden are scattered tearooms and rest areas such as Seifutei, Ryugintei, Fukujutei, Uguisutei, and Saiunsai, where visitors can enjoy the scenery of each season. The moss garden is particularly beautiful, and the sight of cherry blossoms, azaleas, and autumn leaves reflecting against the green moss is spectacular.
Reasons for Limited Public Access
Hakuryuen is basically reserved for private use, with public access limited only during special spring and autumn openings. This limited opening preserves the serene atmosphere and beautiful scenery, providing visitors with a special experience.
Spring Special Opening | The Charm of Cherry Blossoms, Azaleas, and Fresh Green
Spring Opening Period and Highlights
The spring special opening is typically held in the first half from late March to mid-April, and in the second half from late April through late June. During this period, Hakuryuen transitions from the elegance of cherry blossoms to the vibrant colors of azaleas and then to the vital fresh green of young maple leaves.
During cherry blossom season, the garden is dyed in soft pink, creating the charm unique to a Japanese garden. When azaleas bloom, the various colors—red, pink, and white—create a beautiful contrast with the green moss.
The Season of Fresh Green Maple Leaves
From May to June is the season of fresh green maple leaves. The vigorous energy of new growth can be felt, and the way light filtering through the trees illuminates the moss garden has a tranquil beauty distinct from autumn foliage. This period sees relatively fewer visitors, making it a hidden gem time for leisurely appreciating the garden.
Autumn Special Opening | Spectacular Fall Foliage
Autumn Opening Period and Peak Foliage Season
The autumn special opening is typically held from early October through early December. The foliage peaks in mid-November, when the trees turn red and yellow, and the garden is renowned as one of Kyoto’s most beautiful autumn foliage spots.
Pricing During Fall Foliage Season
During autumn opening, prices vary by period. High season in November costs 2,000 yen, while October and December cost 1,600 yen (half price for elementary school children, free for preschoolers). Pricing is set to align with peak foliage viewing.
Anticipated Crowded Times
Weekend visits during fall foliage season, particularly in November, are expected to be busy. Hakuryuen employs a limited advance reservation system of up to 50 people per session (with possible increases during high season), so extreme crowding is avoided. However, popular time slots (10am-12pm, 1pm-2pm) tend to fill up quickly. Those wishing to view the garden more leisurely are recommended to visit right after opening or shortly before closing.
Reservation Methods and Admission Fees
Details of Advance Reservation System
All special openings at Hakuryuen require advance reservations. Each session is limited to 50 people (with possible increases during high season), and reservations are accepted on a first-come, first-served basis. Reservations can be made through the official website or by phone (075-311-8988, 9am-6pm excluding weekends and holidays).
Fee Structure
- Spring Opening: Check official website for fees (varies by period)
- Autumn Opening: November 2,000 yen, October and December 1,600 yen
- Elementary School Children: Half price
- Preschoolers: Free
Admission fees are paid in cash on the day at the venue, so please note this.
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation fees apply after making a reservation. When reserving, be sure to confirm your schedule and select a date when you can definitely visit. Detailed cancellation policy information should be confirmed at the time of reservation.
Access | Train, Bus, and Taxi
Access by Eizan Electric Railway
The most common access method is via the Eizan Electric Railway. Get off at Ninose Station and Hakuryuen is about a 5-7 minute walk away. Although Ninose Station is unmanned, there are signs along the path to the garden, so you won’t get lost.
The Eizan Electric Railway is a scenic line heading toward the Kurama and Kibune areas from central Kyoto, with beautiful views from the train windows. Particularly during foliage season, there is a section called the “Momiji Tunnel,” and viewing foliage from the train is one of the pleasures of visiting Hakuryuen.
Access by Bus
You can also take a bus from Kokusaikaikan Station on the Kyoto City Subway Karasuma Line. Board the Kyoto Bus from the bus stop in front of Kokusaikaikan Station and get off at Ninose bus stop, then a 4-minute walk. Since bus service is limited, it’s recommended to check the schedule in advance.
Access by Taxi
Taking a taxi from Kokusaikaikan Station on the Kyoto City Subway reaches Hakuryuen in approximately 15 minutes. A taxi is convenient for group visits or when you want to make efficient use of time. The approximate fare is 2,000-3,000 yen.
Access by Private Vehicle and Parking
Hakuryuen does not have dedicated parking. If visiting by private car, use nearby paid parking or public transportation is recommended. Particularly during foliage season, surrounding roads become congested, making train or bus access more reliable.
Highlights of Hakuryuen | A Thorough Introduction to the Garden’s Appeal
The Beauty of the Moss Garden
One of Hakuryuen’s greatest attractions is its carefully maintained moss garden. The moss spreads like a green carpet and is beautiful year-round, with particularly exquisite beauty when wet from rain or morning dew. Fallen cherry petals or autumn leaves on the moss create natural art.
Tea Rooms and Rest Areas
Scattered throughout the garden are tearooms and rest areas such as Seifutei, Ryugintei, Fukujutei, Uguisutei, and Saiunsai. Each building offers views of the garden from different angles, allowing visitors to sit and leisurely enjoy the scenery.
Eizan Electric Railway Viewing Point
One distinctive highlight of Hakuryuen is the viewpoint from which you can see the Eizan Electric Railway. The sight of the train racing through the autumn foliage is iconic of Japan’s scenic beauty and is popular with many photography enthusiasts. Checking the train schedule helps you capture the perfect shot.
Seasonal Flowers Throughout the Year
Beyond spring cherry blossoms and azaleas, early summer fresh green, and autumn foliage, the garden is planted with flowers of all seasons. Alpine flowers and other botanical specimens are arranged naturally, presenting different faces with each season.
The Serene Atmosphere
A major attraction of Hakuryuen is its tranquility. By limiting the number of daily visitors, it avoids the crowds of other famous Kyoto tourist sites. While listening to bird songs, wind, and rustling trees, you can slowly savor the heart-touching beauty.
Tourist Attractions Around Hakuryuen
Kurama-dera Temple
Traveling further north on the Eizan Electric Railway from Hakuryuen, you reach Kurama-dera Temple. This mountain temple, where Minamoto no Yoshitsune (Ushiwaka) is said to have trained, is blessed with divine power, and various points of interest dot the approach to the Main Hall. The entire Kurama mountain is enveloped in a sacred atmosphere, and visiting it together with Hakuryuen allows deep appreciation of Kyoto’s nature and history.
Kifune Shrine
Kifune Shrine, known as the deity of romantic love, is a popular spot relatively close to Hakuryuen. You can walk the mountain path from Kurama to Kifune and even enjoy trekking. The “three shrines pilgrimage” visiting the Main Shrine, Intermediate Shrine, and Inner Shrine of Kifune Shrine is popular as a power spot tour.
During summer, restaurants serving riverside dining are crowded with visitors seeking coolness. It has different charm from the spring and autumn periods when Hakuryuen is open, but combining visits for travel planning is also recommended.
Kamowakeikazuchi Shrine (Kamigamo Shrine)
Kamigamo Shrine, one of Kyoto’s oldest shrines, is somewhat distant from Hakuryuen but is an important shrine registered as a World Heritage Site. On the vast grounds stand National Treasure buildings including the main hall and auxiliary hall, and the clear stream “Nara no Ogawa” flowing through the grounds is beautiful as it changes through the seasons.
Kuzuryuu Shrine
Located in the Kurama and Kibune area, Kuzuryuu Shrine is known for its benefits of prosperous business and good fortune. The approach to the main hall has a unique atmosphere, and many people visit it as a spiritual power spot.
Imamiya Shrine
Imamiya Shrine, associated with Keishoin and the origin of the phrase “a fortunate marriage,” is known for benefits of good relationships and good fortune. The two long-established shops selling “aburimochi” on the approach are visited by many tourists as Kyoto specialties. While distant from Hakuryuen, it is suitable for combining with other Kyoto sites.
Autumn Foliage Spots Near Hakuryuen
When visiting Hakuryuen during foliage season, combining visits to nearby foliage spots allows you to enjoy a more fulfilling Kyoto autumn.
Eizan Electric Railway’s Momiji Tunnel
The section of the Eizan Electric Railway from Ichihara Station to Ninose Station is known as the “Momiji Tunnel,” where autumn foliage covers the tracks from both sides. The train slows through this section, allowing passengers to leisurely enjoy the foliage from the windows.
Kurama-dera Temple’s Autumn Foliage
The grounds of Kurama-dera Temple are also known as a foliage viewing spot. The approach from the gate to the Main Hall is colored with foliage, creating a solemn sight enhanced by the shrine’s sacred atmosphere.
Autumn Foliage Around Kifune Shrine
The approach to Kifune Shrine and the foliage along Kifune Stream are also beautiful and sometimes illuminated at night. The contrast between the stream’s murmur and foliage fully conveys the charm of Kyoto’s autumn.
Notes and Etiquette for Your Visit
Clothing and Items to Bring
Since Hakuryuen is located on a mountainside, temperatures are lower than in the city. Especially when visiting in autumn and winter, dress warmly. Also, since the garden’s layout takes advantage of natural terrain, comfortable walking shoes are recommended.
The garden remains open even in rain, so bring rain gear. The moss garden and foliage wet with rain have a different beauty than in clear weather.
Photography Etiquette
Photography is allowed at Hakuryuen, but using tripods or monopods may disturb other visitors, so it’s recommended to check with staff before use. Also, keep conversation quiet to maintain the serene atmosphere.
Food and Drink
Food and drink inside the garden are basically prohibited. Light hydration is acceptable, but meals should be consumed outside the garden. Since there are few restaurants nearby, plan meals in Kurama, Kibune, or the city area.
Taking Out Trash
There are no trash cans in the garden. Please take all trash with you. Acting with consideration for the natural environment and for those who visit next is important.
Best Season to Visit Hakuryuen
Best Spring Timing
The spring opening period is long, allowing you to choose timing based on your preference. For cherry blossoms, late March to early April is best; for azaleas, mid to late April; and for fresh green maple leaves, May to June. Late May through June is particularly uncrowded, making it a hidden gem time for leisurely appreciating the garden.
Best Autumn Timing
For foliage viewing, mid-November is most recommended. However, this period is most crowded and reservations fill quickly. Early or late November still offers beautiful foliage with lower fees than mid-November, making it also recommended for cost-conscious visitors.
The Charm of Rainy Days
While the beauty on clear days is undeniable, rainy days at Hakuryuen have their own unique charm. The green moss wet with rain becomes more vivid, and you can fully savor the subdued charm of a Japanese garden. The silence broken only by rain sounds and bird songs creates a different atmosphere than on clear days.
Conclusion | Experience the Heart-Touching Beauty of Hakuryuen
Hakuryuen is a hidden gem among Kyoto’s many tourist sites, offering a particularly special serene beauty. You can enjoy the seasonal natural beauty of spring cherry blossoms, azaleas, and fresh greenery, as well as autumn foliage, all carefully maintained in the garden.
The advance reservation system limiting visitor numbers is a major attraction, allowing you to leisurely view the garden while avoiding the crowds of Kyoto’s other famous spots. The convenient access—just a 5-7 minute walk from Ninose Station on the Eizan Electric Railway—makes it easy to visit.
By combining it with nearby tourist attractions such as Kurama-dera Temple and Kifune Shrine, you can spend a day deeply appreciating Kyoto’s nature and history. At Hakuryuen, you can feel the elegance of cherry blossoms in spring, the vigor of new life in green season, the beauty of late autumn in foliage season, and the serene tranquility of winter snow.
Experience the heart-touching beauty of this garden floating on the foothills of Anyo-ji Temple in the village of Ninose, before Kurama, where it is said the gods of the mountains have dwelled since ancient times. Make reservations early, and when visiting, appreciate the garden’s charm to the fullest while maintaining respect for nature and proper etiquette.
