Temple · Nijo
Shinsen-en Garden 神泉苑
Remnant of the Heian emperors' private garden south of Nijo Castle, now a Shingon temple with a pond, red bridge and dragon legend; National Historic Site.
HoursGrounds 7:00-20:00; office 9:00-17:00
PriceFree
Getting thereNijojo-mae Station (Tozai Line), 2-3 min walk
Time needed30-60 min
Best timeSpring cherry blossoms; May kyogen
Address166 Monzencho, Nakagyo-ku, Kyoto
Websiteshinsenen.org
About
Shinsen-en was laid out with the Heian capital in 794 as an imperial garden and later served as a site for rain-making prayers led by Kukai. Today a pond with a vermilion Hojo-bashi bridge and a small shrine to the dragon king remain. The grounds open early and stay open into the evening.
Highlights
- Pond and vermilion Hojo-bashi bridge
- Origin site of the Gion Festival rites
- Shinsen-en kyogen performances in May
- Important Cultural Property Fudo statue
Tips
- Grounds open 7:00-20:00 and free
- 3 min walk from Nijojo-mae Station
- Combine with Nijo Castle
Open in Google Maps · Info checked 2026-10-11
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