Top Gardens in Japan

I suggest getting there right when the park opens at 9 AM. Trust me, it’s so peaceful then and you can avoid the crowds as you stroll through the beautiful gardens. It's way more enjoyable!

If you're planning to take photos, go for the early morning light. I messed up and went in the midday sun; it totally washed out my pics. Early birds get the best shots!

I recommend checking the seasonal highlights before you go. When I visited in spring, I missed the cherry blossoms by a week—bummed me out! Timing is everything!

My advice is to bring a packed lunch! The food in the area can be pricey, but having a little picnic on the grass is super nice, especially with the Sakura blossoms if you're lucky!

If you're visiting during peak seasons, like cherry blossom time, be ready for crowds. I think going on a weekday instead of the weekend might help avoid some of that hustle.

Don't forget your camera! The cherry blossoms in Spring are absolutely stunning, but even in other seasons, the scenery is so photogenic, so make sure to capture those moments.

You can bring a picnic! There are lovely spots to relax and eat. I saw so many people enjoying their meals while taking in the beautiful surroundings, and it saved me some money too.

I recommend visiting Kyoto Gyoen early in the morning around 8 am. It’s way less crowded, and you'll really enjoy the peace and quiet before the crowds roll in

Don't miss the moss garden; it's stunning. I think it’s one of the highlights and deserves a good amount of your time to really soak it all in.

Beware of the entrance fee if you're on a budget. It’s worth it for the experience, but I suggest checking for discounts or combined tickets if you plan to visit other nearby temples.

Check the weather before your visit! The gardens are best enjoyed when it’s not too sunny or rainy so aim for a cloudy day for the best lighting and atmosphere.

If you can, try to arrive around 8:00 AM... The tranquility in the gardens is magical early in the morning, and you'll avoid the crowds and get some great photos

I highly recommend going early in the morning around 9 AM. The roses are so much fresher and the light for photos is perfect. Plus, you'll avoid the crowds!

If you're a fan of photography, make sure to visit in late April when the roses are in full bloom. Trust me, it’s a sight to see! I regret not capturing enough pics!

Check out the small tea house near the pond. I was surprised how affordable the matcha was, and the view while sipping it is just stunning!