Maruyama Park, which is right next to Kyoto popular sightseeing spot such as Yasaka Shrine and Gion Hanamikoji, is the oldest park in Kyoto city and is also a very famous cherry blossom viewing spot. The most exemplary symbol among them is the Gion weeping cherry tree in the center of the park.
Maruyama Park – the oldest in Kyoto city
Founded in 1886 (Meiji 19), Maruyama Park is the oldest park in Kyoto. Maruyama Park, which has a large site, was originally part of Yasaka Shrine but became a state-owned land since Meiji Restoration and was later opened to public as a park. It is a place commonly utilized by citizens even now.
Maruyama Park, which is also called path around pond style garden, making ponds and valley using natural hills, has a characteristic which is the scenery changes gradually as you move. Various kinds of plants are planted in the garden and you can enjoy natural scenery no matter which season you visit. The most famous among them is cherry blossom. When is spring season, Maruyama Park is definitely one of the most popular destination for cherry blossom in Kyoto.
Cherry blossom at Maruyama Park - it is rare even within Kyoto city
Speaking of cherry blossom viewing, it has to be Maruyama Park as well. There are about 680 trees such as Yoshino cherry tree and wild cherry trees planted here. Many popular cherry blossom view sites are at temple, so besides you have to appreciate the view quietly, banquet or party are prohibited too. Maruyama Park is a very popular cherry blossom viewing spot in the city because transportation is convenient, and is lighted up which is rare even in Kyoto.
There is a famous cherry blossom called Gion weeping cherry at Maruyama Park, its formal name is Hitoe Shirohigan weeping cherry. The first Gion weeping cherry tree was planted from Edo period with its age of 220 years. However, it had withered in 1947. It is said that current second generation is over 80 years old. Gion weeping tree is an icon of Maruyama Park and has been loved by locals and tourists for many years.
The best time to view cherry blossom at Maruyama Park is from late March to early of April every year. It is full with romantic when the cherry blossom in full bloom is light up with light! Many stalls also open in the vicinity of the venue which looks like a grand party. As spring comes, how about getting excited at Maruyama Park just like cherry blossom-loving Japanese people, eat something delicious with family and friends or watch beautiful cherry blossom?
Next to famous spots and perfect for sightseeing
Maruyama Park is perfect for sightseeing as it is next to popular spots! -Higashiyama in the east, Yasaka Shrine in the west, Kodai-ji in the south and Chion-in temple in the north. Not only that, it is also close to Kiyomizu-dera temple, one of the world cultural heritage known to people around the world. How about going to Maruyama Park after visiting temples?
Besides cherry blossom season, you can also visit Maruyama Park any time and enjoy the exceptional garden. As it is located right next to Yasaka Shrine, the Gion festival, one of the three biggest festival in Japan, is held gigantically every July and many tourist will crowd around Maruyama Park. The Gion Hanami-koji is not far so you may be able to see beautiful geisha in this Kyoto-like town in the evening. Moreover, it is recommended to experience the taste of Kyoto in a small restaurant at the neighborhood.
Spot Information
- Location name: Maruyama Park
- Address: Maruyama-cho, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto, Kyoto
- Access: About 10 minutes walk from Keihan Railway Gion Shijo Station, or from Subway Tozai Line “Higashiyama” station
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