Okochi Sanso Garden (couple trip)
How Couple-Friendly is Okochi Sanso Garden?
Couples get romantic scenery, side-by-side matcha at the tea house, and panoramic photo spots, all within a compact 1-2 h visit that fits neatly into an Arashiyama date.
Positives:
- Tranquil Atmosphere: The garden stays quiet, perfect for intimate conversation and relaxation.
- Intimate Tea Seating: Tea houses reserve limited seats, ensuring a cozy setting for two.
Challenges:
- Uneven Terrain: Gravel and stepping-stone paths can be slippery after rain.
- Limited English Signage: Most labels are in Japanese; bring a translation app for plant names.
What is so special about Okochi Sanso Garden for couple trip?
- Stroll winding garden paths with mountain and river vistas
- Share matcha tea and sweets in a private tea house
- Capture romantic photos at iconic garden structures
- Receive complimentary seasonal postcards as souvenirs
- Enjoy a quiet, intimate setting ideal for couples
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for couple trip: Enough time for a full garden stroll, tea break, photo spots, and souvenir postcard pick-up.
Couple-Friendly Activities in Okochi Sanso Garden
Romantic Garden Stroll:
Walk along winding stone and pebble paths through pine, cherry, and maple trees.
Tip: Start at the main gate and follow the path clockwise for the best views of Mt. Hiei and the Hozu River gorge.
Shared Matcha Tea Ceremony:
Enjoy a bowl of matcha and a traditional sweet side-by-side at Gekkotei or Tekisuian tea house.
Tip: Arrive early to secure window seating overlooking the garden.
Scenic Photo Opportunities:
Frame your couple portrait by Daijō-kaku’s black gate, sentinel lanterns, and Kyoto skyline.
Tip: Use golden hour light (around 4–5pm) for softer shadows and richer colors.
Collect Complimentary Postcards:
Choose one set of four seasonal postcards at the tea house after your tea.
Tip: Ask which seasonal designs are available before leaving to get emerging cherry or maple prints.
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Typical Budget for a Couple (2 Adults)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Admission (2 adults) | JPY 2,000 |
| Extra postcard set | JPY 200 |
| Matcha powder souvenir | JPY 500 |
| Total Estimated | JPY 2,700 |
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 Okochi Sanso Garden?
In spring, enjoy cherry blossoms; summer offers lush greens; autumn brings fiery maples; winter reveals serene snow-dusted moss.
How to Maximize Your Visit to Okochi Sanso Garden
- Visit Early: Arrive at opening to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures.
- Combine Nearby Attractions: After your visit, walk to Tenryu-ji or ride the Sagano Scenic Railway in Arashiyama.
Map of Okochi Sanso Garden
Address: 8 Sagaogurayama Tabuchiyamacho, Ukyo Ward, Kyoto, 616-8394, Japan
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Reviews of Okochi Sanso Garden
M B
Beautiful gardens with amazing views. I was disappointed though that on my visit the tea house had closed down ( it was removed from the signage too). The price at 1000Y was high when compared with the most famous gardens in Japan. If you are in the bamboo forest, a walk through the free park there is equally rewarding.
Andrew Meador
Peaceful, relaxing garden with a nice view of the city at the top. They have a one way path to help with traffic, and lots of places to sit down and rest. The bathrooms were also in good shape. On site there is also a memorial to an early Japanese actor. Worth the price of admission!!
Eric Vander Weerd
This was one of the highlights of our trip. Much less crowded than the bamboo path, and well worth the money for a path through nature. There is a tea/ice water stopoff to the right when you first walk in, and there is a gardenkeeper’s villa (her “soul resting place”) that is age-limited to 15+ we enjoyed a lot. Please be respectful of the quiet in this place to keep it peaceful.
Erol Uray
Nice garden and is the former home and garden of the Japanese jidaigeki actor Denjirō Ōkōchi. Very iconic in Japan and built in 1913. A few nice view points as well. There is a small admission fee to pay but it is worth it.
Malia Riggs
Absolutely beautiful! I thought it was worth the price to experience the gardens. We went about 15 minutes after they opened, and really enjoyed our time! However, if you have troubles with uneven ground, there are little to no railings throughout the garden.
About Okochi Sanso Garden
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 75-872-2233See available options
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