Kyoto Botanical Gardens (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Kyoto Botanical Gardens?
Kids enter free, play on slides, explore Acorn Forest, picnic on lawns, and spot baobabs in the greenhouse; parents must bring repellent and guard children near ponds.
Positives:
- Free kids admission: Children under junior high visit and play spots at no entry cost.
- Easy transport: Wide, paved paths suit strollers and allow family mobility.
Challenges:
- Limited entry time: Last entry at 4 PM; plan arrival before to see key spots.
- Mosquito risk in summer: Bring repellent or avoid garden during July and August.
What is so special about Kyoto Botanical Gardens for with kids?
- Hands-on zones like the acorn forest engage 3–12 year-olds with nature exploration
- Playground equipment and open lawns let kids run freely
- Observation greenhouse offers a warm indoor adventure spotting exotic plants
- Free admission for children makes family visits budget-friendly
- Shaded reading corners and picnic spots provide rest for parents
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Allows families to visit the playground, greenhouse, and picnic spots without rushing.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Kyoto Botanical Gardens
Playground near Main Gate:
Safe slides and swings for ages 2–12 in a fenced area.
Tip: Visit early to secure a spot and free swings.
Interactive Acorn Forest:
Hands-on zone with acorns from over 10 oak and chestnut species.
Tip: Encourage kids to collect different acorns and compare sizes.
Observation Greenhouse:
Warm glasshouse with orchids, bromeliads, and giant cacti.
Tip: Let kids spot the baobab tree and Queen of the Night cactus.
Mushroom Library Story Corner:
Shaded reading area with picture books under oak trees.
Tip: Bring your favorite story or borrow books on site for group reading.
Lawn Picnic & Games:
Open grass area perfect for frisbee, bubbles, and family snacks.
Tip: Pack a picnic blanket and light snacks; avoid midday heat.
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Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Adult admission (2 adults) | JPY 1,000 |
| Picnic set at IN THE GREEN (4 people) | JPY 7,600 |
| Total Estimated | JPY 8,600 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
When is the best time to visit Kyoto Botanical Gardens?
In spring, 450 cherry trees bloom along the pond path. In autumn, maple leaves turn red near the greenhouse. In midsummer, bring repellent for tiger mosquitoes.
How to Maximize Your Visit to Kyoto Botanical Gardens
- Arrive at opening: Get to the Main Gate by 9 AM to secure stroller rental and quiet playground time.
- Download the map: Use the free PDF guide to plan a route between themed areas for kids.
- Pack your own picnic: Bringing snacks saves time and avoids waits at the on-site restaurant.
Map of Kyoto Botanical Gardens
Address: Shimogamo Hangicho, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto, 606-0823, Japan
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Reviews of Kyoto Botanical Gardens
Cal Ostertag
We went here while waiting for our hotel room, but I could have spent all day here! There's biomes represented here you wouldn't even think to put in a botanical garden. Pleasant, quiet, and large enough to not really run into crowds. Conservatory is large and you can spend a couple hours in there, a great rainy day activity.
Phuong Nguyen
A lovely place for plants and flowers lovers. Bring your student card (if any) for ticket discount or free entrance depending on the seasons. For people from tropical country, the tropical house was like everything you could see in your home country so if you want something new, maybe this one can be left out, plus you have to pay extra to get into this area. Everything else was good. The flowe...
DanielleWaibz
What a beautiful place! I can in late May and the rose garden was absolutely beautiful!! They had so many different types and colors! This botanical garden really has something for everyone. They have manicured garden beds, native plants, a conservatory, a forested area and even the natural forest. There was also a very small shrine that was there which was beautiful and very quiet. I recommend go...
Wei Qian (Sandy)
Admission fee is 500yen for an adult. Which is a crazy price given how big the garden is, and the quality of experience. I have been to quite a few flower parks and gardens in Japan's spring and this has got to be one of my favourites. They also have a massive conservatory (glasshouse) featuring lots of non-native plants. Do take note that within the grounds, not all flowers and fruits may be bloo...
Zainuri Hanif
Kyoto Botanical Garden is one of the most peaceful and relaxing places you can visit in Kyoto. Conveniently located near Kitayama Station, it’s easily accessible by public transport. Spanning over 24 hectares, the garden offers an impressive collection of plants, both native to Japan and from around the world. One of the highlights is the large conservatory, which houses a wide variety of tropica...
About Kyoto Botanical Gardens
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
Official WebsitePhone Number
+81 75-701-0141See available options
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