Magnificent Imperial Villa Crowns This Rural and Regal Kyoto Neighborhood
The Rakuhoku neighborhood, located just north of central Kyoto, has long been regarded as a gathering place for artists and traditional craftsmen. This charming area is home to fabulous temples, tree-lined streets filled with quaint shops and cafes, and a magnificent imperial villa. With its rich cultural heritage and picturesque landscapes, Rakuhoku offers a unique and tranquil escape from the bustling city.
Don’t Miss
1. Shisendo Temple – The Home of Chinese Poets
Located in the Rakuhoku neighborhood, Shisendo Temple is a hidden gem that showcases the beauty of Chinese poetry. Built in 1641 by Chinese scholar and landscape architect Ishikawa Jozan, this temple is a retreat concealed within a residential area. The temple is home to 36 portraits of ancient Chinese poets and features a stunning dry landscape garden. The flowering azaleas in spring add a touch of vibrancy to the serene atmosphere of the temple.
2. Enkoji Temple – A Must-Visit for Autumn Foliage and Gardens
Founded by Tokugawa Ieyasu in 1600, Enkoji Temple has a rich history as a seminary for women and an open-minded institution. The temple is renowned for its autumn foliage and gardens, offering visitors a breathtaking view of nature’s vibrant colors. One of the highlights of Enkoji Temple is its suikinkutsu, a musical ornament unique to Japanese gardens. The temple also boasts a bamboo forest and two impressive rock gardens, including one designed in the shape of a running dragon.
3. Shugakuin Rikyu Teien Temple Garden – A Tranquil Oasis
Shugakuin Rikyu Teien Temple Garden is a hidden oasis in the Rakuhoku neighborhood. Built in the 17th century by Emperor Gomizunoo, this imperial villa comprises three villas, each with its own garden. Surrounded by rice paddies, the villa remains as a testament to its original grandeur. The garden offers a serene and peaceful environment, with a small wooden building providing panoramic views of the city and mountains beyond.
4. Shopping on Shirakawa-dori – A Hip Hangout
Shirakawa-dori, stretching across the Takano district of Rakuhoku, is a vibrant street filled with hip shops and cafes. Once known for its tea houses that served travelers en route from Kyoto to Shiga, it has transformed into a popular hangout spot for young people. The street is lined with cute shops, cafes, and bookstores, offering visitors a taste of both contemporary and traditional Japanese culture.
How to Get There
Rakuhoku is easily accessible from Kyoto Station and other parts of the city. Here are the transportation options for each of the recommended attractions:
1. Shisendo Temple:
From Kyoto Station, take the Karasuma Line to Kokusaikaikan Station. From there, take bus #5 to Ichijoji-kudari-matsumachi bus stop. The temple is just a 5-minute walk from there. Alternatively, from Demachiyanagi Station, take the Eizan Main Line to Ichijoji Station. It’s a 10-minute walk from there.
2. Enkoji Temple:
From Kyoto Station, take the Karasuma Line to Kokusaikaikan Station. From there, take bus #5 to Ichijoji-kudari-matsumachi bus stop. The temple is a 10-minute walk from there. Alternatively, from Demachiyanagi Station, take the Eizan Line to Ichijoji Station. From there, it’s a fifteen-minute walk.
3. Shugakuin Rikyu Teien Temple Garden:
From Kyoto Station, take the Karasuma Line to Kokusaikaikan Station. From there, take bus #5 to Shugakuin Rikyudo bus stop. The temple is a 15-minute walk from there. Alternatively, from Demachiyanagi Station, take the Eizan Line to Shugakuin Station. It’s a 10-minute walk from there.
4. Shirakawa-dori:
From Kyoto Station, take the Karasuma Line to Kokusaikaikan Station. From there, take bus #5 to Shugakuin Rikyudo bus stop. Alternatively, you can get off at Matsugasaki Station on the Karasuma Line and walk for 20 minutes to reach Shirakawa-dori.
Escape the Crowds
Unlike the bustling city center of Kyoto, the Rakuhoku area remains relatively quiet and peaceful. Once filled with vegetable fields and rice paddies, the area has undergone modernization but still retains its natural charm. A few fields can still be found, serving as a reminder of Rakuhoku’s rural past. Visitors can enjoy a serene and tranquil atmosphere while exploring the neighborhood’s cultural attractions.
Shugakuin Imperial Villa – A Glimpse into History
One of the main highlights of Rakuhoku is the Shugakuin Imperial Villa, built in the 17th century by Emperor Gomizunoo. This magnificent villa consists of three separate villas, each with its own garden. Surrounded by rice paddies, the villa offers a unique glimpse into the imperial history of Kyoto. A small wooden building on the south side of the pond provides stunning views of the city and the mountains beyond. Access to the garden is limited to scheduled tours, which can be booked in advance or on a first-come-first-serve basis at the villa.
Enkoji Temple – A Serene Sanctuary
Enkoji Temple is a must-visit destination in Rakuhoku, particularly during autumn when the foliage is at its peak. Founded by Tokugawa Ieyasu in 1600, the temple has a rich history and a reputation for being open-minded and inclusive. The temple is known for its suikinkutsu, a unique musical ornament found in Japanese gardens that emits a bell-like sound. Visitors can also explore a bamboo forest and two stunning rock gardens, including one designed in the shape of a running dragon. A small hill behind the temple offers a panoramic view of Kyoto’s mountains.
Shisendo Temple – A Hidden Retreat
Shisendo Temple, meaning “hermit’s retreat,” is a hidden gem nestled in a residential neighborhood. Built in 1641 by Chinese scholar and landscape architect Ishikawa Jozan, the temple is home to 36 portraits of ancient Chinese poets. The highlight of the temple is its kare-sansui, or dry landscape garden, which is particularly enchanting when the azaleas bloom in spring. The carefully arranged sand represents islands in a sea, creating a captivating visual effect.
A Hip Hangout
Rakuhoku has a vibrant and youthful atmosphere, thanks to its proximity to several universities, including the prestigious Kyoto University. The area exudes a college town feel, with an abundance of cute shops, cafes, and bookstores. Traditional Japanese eateries can also be found, providing a taste of authentic local cuisine. Shirakawa-dori, in particular, has become a popular hangout spot for young people, with its hip shops and cafes. The street’s rich history, once serving as a stopover for travelers, adds to its allure.
In conclusion, Rakuhoku offers a unique blend of cultural heritage, natural beauty, and contemporary charm. With its magnificent imperial villa, temples, gardens, and vibrant streets, this rural and regal neighborhood is a must-visit destination for those seeking a tranquil escape from the city. Whether you’re exploring the historic temples, strolling along the picturesque streets, or enjoying a cup of tea in a cozy cafe, Rakuhoku promises an unforgettable experience. Plan your visit to this enchanting neighborhood and discover the hidden gems that await you in the heart of Kyoto.
Address And Maps Location:
Sakyo-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto-fu
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