Hidden Gems of Kyoto - Explore Keihoku

Photo © Japan Journeys

Unique temples, close ties to the imperial history of Kyoto, and more. Explore the finest of Keihoku, one of Kyoto’s most special hidden gems.

Nanzen-ji: Heart of the Five Mountains

‘Temple Fatigue’ is one of the most common afflictions affecting foreign visitors to Kyoto. 

Of course, each and every guidebook claims that any given Buddhist Temple is ‘unmissable.’ 

Lacking clear guidance, tourists traipse from one near-identical zen paradise to the next. But Nanzen-ji? Nanzen-ji is different. Here's why...
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Murin-an Garden

The villa of former prime minister Aritomo Yamagata (1838-1922).

The garden is designated by the national government as a scenic heritage and is the only one that is open year-round among the masterpiece gardens in the villas surrounding the Nanzenji Temple area. 

(Limited capacity – please secure your entry by making a reservation).
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Old Mitsui Family Shimogamo Villa

The former villa was built in 1925 for the Mitsui Family, a wealthy merchant family and founder of the Mitsui conglomerate. 

The main house structure was originally built in 1880 and moved to its current location where a new entrance hall section was added. It is nationally designated as an Important Cultural Property as a well-preserved example of a large, early 20th century villa estate.
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*Source: Kyoto Convention & Visitors Bureau (c/o Tourism Garden Pty Ltd) alison@tourismgarden.com.au