Murin-an (solo trip)
How Solo-Friendly is Murin-an?
What makes it 84% Solo-Friendly: A solo traveler can absorb the garden’s history via free 10-minute talks, wander quietly for an hour, and pay a low admission without needing special facilities or companions.
Positives:
- Quiet guided talks: Staff offer free, small-group introductions each hour, ideal for solo learning.
- Limited entry slots: Online reservations cap visitors, keeping the garden uncrowded.
Challenges:
- Advance booking required: You must reserve your entry time on the official website; slots sell out fast.
- Limited café seating: Window views are limited; prepare to wait briefly at peak times.
What is Murin-an?
- A late 19th-century villa and strolling garden in Kyoto’s Okazaki district, commissioned by statesman Yamagata Aritomo and designed by tea master Ogawa Jibei
- A Meiji-era landscape featuring a central pond, a stream fed by the Lake Biwa Canal, moss-covered stones, manicured lawns, and framed views of the Higashiyama hills
- An architectural ensemble that unites a Western-influenced villa with traditional Japanese teahouse pavilions, exemplifying East-West fusion in garden design
What is so special about Murin-an for solo trip?
- Free 10-minute hourly talks provide expert insights.
- Intimate 19th-century moss garden designed for quiet strolls.
- Teahouse windows frame seasonal views for solo photographers.
- Café seating overlooks the garden, perfect for reflective pauses.
- Limited entry slots ensure a peaceful, uncrowded experience.
Recommended visit duration: 1–2 hours
Why 1–2 hours visit duration is ideal for solo trip: Solo travelers can stroll the garden, join the 10-minute staff talk, and relax at the café without hurrying.
Solo-Friendly Activities in Murin-an
Join the hourly garden introduction:
Attend the free 10-minute talk on the garden’s history and design.
Tip: Arrive a few minutes early to catch the talk in English at any hour.
Explore the villa and teahouse:
Walk through the 19th-century villa rooms and view the pond and moss garden from the teahouse windows.
Tip: Pause at each window to frame the garden scene and spot carved wood details.
Relax at Murin-an Café:
Enjoy matcha, coffee, and bean-jam pancakes while facing the garden.
Tip: Try the dorayaki with matcha latte and request a window seat for the best view.
Optional private garden concierge tour:
Book a 60-minute expert-led tour for deeper insights into the garden layout.
Tip: Reserve at least one day in advance via the official site.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Murin-an
- Book early online: Secure your preferred slot at least one day in advance on Murin-an’s site.
- Time your visit: Arrive midweek and mid-morning to avoid larger guided groups.
Reviews of Murin-an
Daniel Zhang
This intimate yet thoughtfully designed space packs all the essential elements of a traditional Japanese garden into one compact experience. The main tatami-floored viewing room offers comfortable seating where you can enjoy seasonal sweets while contemplating the view. Step outside to discover their specialty - an exquisite moss garden featuring remarkable biodiversity. The carefully curated var...
Karen Stafford
Pretty garden, not as manicured as most Japanese gardens, interesting history. This is why I gave it only 3 stars- when booking, they stressed that they only allow small groups in so you can have a calming experience and enjoy strolling the garden at your own pace. When we entered, there were at least 12 people waiting and there were at least 20 others milling about. I’m glad we didn’t opt for the...
Viktor Velchev
Stunning place! Sit here and enjoy the garden with a cup of tea instead of visiting another crowded spot. The sound of the water is so relaxing when combined with the view.
Alicja Sokolowski
It was a nice garden with a good relaxing atmosphere, but I think for the small space it’s a bit expensive. Not a must do activity. I think the area around is just as pretty and worth visiting instead
Hilal Aslan
My husband and I visited this hidden garden in June 2023, and it was truly a wonderful experience. We purchased our tickets on-site, which included tea and a cookie—a lovely touch. The place was peaceful and not crowded at all, making it even more enjoyable. We would definitely love to visit again!
When is the best time to visit Murin-an (Kyoto, Japan)?
In spring (late March–early April), watch cherry blossoms float on the pond. In autumn (late November), see fiery maple leaves around the teahouse.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for Solo Traveler (1 Adult)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Garden admission | JPY 600 |
| Matcha latte at café | JPY 600 |
| Bean-jam pancake | JPY 600 |
| Optional concierge tour (60 min) | JPY 10,000 |
| Total Estimated | JPY 1,800 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
Map of Murin-an
Address: Japan, 〒606-8437 Kyoto, Sakyo Ward, Nanzenji Kusakawachō, ３１ ３１番地
Map will load when you scroll here
Scroll down to view the interactive map
Looking for other Things to Do besides Murin-an (Kyoto)?
About Murin-an
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 75-771-3909Explore Popular Things to Do
🇺🇸 United States, solo trip
🇬🇧 United Kingdom, solo trip
How You Can Support Us
If our website helps you, please support us by booking your travel needs through this link: Book Flights, Hotels, Activities on Trip.com - New App User Promo up to 10% OFF. We may earn a small affiliate commission - at no extra cost to you!
It's a simple way to help us keep the site running and improving for everyone. Thanks for your support!