🗺️ Katsura Imperial Villa桂離宮

Katsura Imperial Villa was built during the early Edo period, based on the Katsura Detached Palace where Prince Toshihito Hachijo once resided, and it took several decades to complete. Although it was used as a detached palace for Hachijo-no-miya, it became famous for its beautiful gardens during the Edo period and was later managed by the Imperial Household Agency after the Meiji period. The expansive grounds feature artificial hills, ponds, and tea houses, making it the oldest existing stroll garden. The beauty of the gardens and architecture of Katsura Imperial Villa was highly praised by German architect Bruno Taut, who visited Japan in the early Showa period, solidifying its reputation as a masterpiece of Japanese gardens. Passing through the Gokōmon gate and walking along the Gokōdō path, one is greeted with a complete view of the garden's depth. Ahead lies a pond and sandbank that mimic the scenery of Amanohashidate. Continuing forward, one arrives at Shokin-tei, the most important tea house within the villa, where the view appears beautifully framed by columns and railings. The ancient Shoin, Chūshoin, and Shin-Goten surround the garden, all constructed in the style of thatched roofs typical of the mid-17th century.

Imitating the sandbar and stone bridge of Amanohashidate, along with the scenery of Matsukitotei in the background. Inside Matsukitotei, there is a newly designed and eye-catching paper door made of stacked stones and colorful paper. Visits require prior reservation. Please note that the number of English-speaking guides is limited.