A serene cherry blossom secret spot: Kyoto’s “Shoseien Garden” with floral views all year round

Text and photos byNathan Yung

“Japan Food Travel Guide – Captain Nacha’s Cherry Blossom Frontline”

The highlight of Captain Nacha’s Japan trip was this two-day Kyoto cherry blossom itinerary. Although the blossoms bloomed later due to weather conditions, there are still plenty of hidden gems we’d like to share with you secretly！

Especially theShoseien Garden (しょうせいえん)in Kyoto’s Shimogyo Ward, Kyoto Prefecture — a strolling-style garden located right across from the main gate of Higashi Honganji Temple. It is situated within the precincts of the head temple of the Otani sect of Jodo Shinshu Buddhism (commonly known as Higashi Honganji), which also counts as part of Kyoto’s historic district. It often surprises visitors with its rich foliage and tranquil pathways.

Established in 1641, the third Tokugawa shogun, Tokugawa Iemitsu, donated the land for the garden to the 13th sect leader, Zenryu. The name “Shoseien” is derived from Tao Yuanming’s “Ode to Returning Home,” specifically the line “I stroll in my garden daily and find endless delight.” The garden suffered fires in 1858 and 1864, and the current structures were rebuilt in the early Meiji period. It features scenic spots such as Soshi Pavilion and Ingetsu Pond, and offers floral views in all seasons, hence earning the beautiful title of “Thirteen Scenes.”

Shoseien is about 1.2 km from Kyoto Station and a pleasant 15-minute walk on a sunny day. From March to October, it opens daily at 9:00 AM and closes at 5:00 PM. Admission is 500 yen, and as an additional fee, visitors can also purchase the “Shoseien Guidebook,” which introduces and explains the origins of the garden’s beautiful sights.

Although some structures, such as the Insetsubashi Bridge, have been under a 10-year restoration project since 2014, this in no way diminishes the garden’s cherry blossom beauty. At guidebook location No. 4, “Shishikou” (Lion’s Roar), you can look toward Kyoto Tower and capture a beautiful reflection of the tower in Ingetsu Pond (No. 15).

Although currently only one cherry tree near the “Bokkaikan” (Flower-Adjacent Pavilion) is in bloom due to delayed blooming and variety issues this year, it still showcases the refined Japanese tradition of flower appreciation. Even if we can’t go inside to view the garden and blossoms from within, we can turn our backs to Bokkaikan and admire the blossoms in front. It’s recommended to arrive right when the garden opens at 9:00 AM, walk in quickly, and enjoy the blossoms in peace before the crowds arrive.

An elegant place for cherry blossom viewing.

Shoseien Garden
Address: 600-8505 Kyoto, Shimogyo Ward, Kamigyo Street, 7-chome
More information:www.higashihonganji.or.jp/worship/receipt/

“Japan Food Travel Guide” team captain Nathan Yung has invested millions of his own funds since 2012. Drawing from Taiwanese culinary tastes and inspired by Japanese cuisine, and with his remarkable taste bud talent, he has traveled across Japan, tasted its foods, and in Taiwan, he continuously reads and cooks hands-on. He is now compiling his experiences into a book, scheduled for release by the end of 2016.

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