Okochi Sanso Garden (couple trip)
How Couple-Friendly is Okochi Sanso Garden?
What makes it 89% Couple-Friendly: 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:
- Romantic Ambiance: Quiet paths and tea house seating create private moments.
- Inclusive Tea Experience: Admission includes matcha and a sweet for both guests.
Challenges:
- Uneven Terrain: Stone and gravel paths can be slippery after rain.
- Limited Signage: English labels are sparse; download a map or ask staff for directions.
What is Okochi Sanso Garden?
- A two-hectare Arashiyama estate garden created by actor Denjirō Ōkōchi in the early Shōwa era
- A composition of traditional wooden residences, tea houses, shrines and ornamental structures set among pine groves, bamboo stands and moss lawns
- A designed landscape that frames Mt. Hiei and the Hozu River gorge through borrowed scenery techniques
What is so special about Okochi Sanso Garden for couple trip?
- Stroll winding paths built by actor Denjirō Ōkōchi
- Share matcha tea with a view of the bamboo forest
- Capture photos at the black gate and stone lanterns
- Receive a complimentary scenic postcard
- Enjoy year-round seasonal scenery
Recommended visit duration: 1-2 hours
Why 1-2 hours visit duration is ideal for couple trip: Allows time for a relaxed stroll, tea ceremony, and photo stops.
Couple-Friendly Activities in Okochi Sanso Garden
Garden Stroll:
Follow stone and gravel paths past pine, cherry, and maple trees.
Tip: Start at the lower gate and loop uphill to catch views of Mt. Hiei early.
Matcha Tea Ceremony:
Enjoy a bowl of matcha and a traditional sweet at the Tekisuian tea house.
Tip: Sit by the window facing the bamboo grove for a shared view.
Observation Points:
Pause at Daijō-kaku’s black gate to see Kyoto’s skyline and the Hozu River gorge.
Tip: Visit these spots in the morning light for softer shadows.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Okochi Sanso Garden
- Arrive early: Beat the crowds and secure a window seat in the tea house.
- Loop uphill first: Start at the back gate to visit observation spots before tea.
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.
When is the best time to visit Okochi Sanso Garden (Kyoto, Japan)?
In spring, see cherry blossoms; summer shows lush greens; autumn lights up red maples; winter coats moss in snow.
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Typical Budget for a Couple (2 Adults)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Admission for 2 adults | JPY 2,000 |
| Extra postcards | JPY 200 |
| Gift shop snack | 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.
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Map of Okochi Sanso Garden
Address: 8 Sagaogurayama Tabuchiyamacho, Ukyo Ward, Kyoto, 616-8394, Japan
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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 75-872-223310 BEST nearby Activities
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