Okochi Sanso: Beautiful Traditional Japanese Villa in Kyoto

Okochi Sanso Villa is the most beautiful traditional Japanese villa in Kyoto. Enjoy four seasons at the villa with bamboo, cherry, maple and pine trees!

Okochi Sanso Villa (大河内山荘) is located in a hill top in Arashiyama area in Kyoto City. It’s the former home and garden of the Japanese movie actor Denjiro Okochi, who dedicated 30 years of his latest life to the creation of this villa. He specially designed the garden to highlight all four seasons by cherry blossoms, azaleas, Japanese maple trees, and many pines.

The villa is open to the public and known for its gardens and views of the Kyoto area. Several of the buildings are recorded as cultural properties by the national government.

The villa and the garden is approx 20,000 m2 including several interesting sites such as Japanese gardens, main house, tea house and gates. There is also an open-air museum dedicated to Denjiro Okochi and an observation platform. Matcha tea and a small sweet are included in the price of admission and are available at the main tea house.

The well maintained villa offers great scenery all year around but the best time to visit is in autumn, when the leaves are turning into red. The villa tends to get really crowded during the autumn season so it’s highly recommended to visit in the morning.

The villa is located within a short walk from Tenryuji Temple and can be accessed through the famous path in the bamboo grove.

Map: https://maps.app.goo.gl/CLYQe9VJ2YTDgb1d7

Address: 8 Tabushiyama-cho, Saga Ogurayama,Ukyo-ward, Kyoto-city

Fee: 1,000 yen

Hours: 9:00~17:00

How did you like the villa? Which season do you think is the best to visit?? If you are looking for more beautiful spots in Kyoto, you may wanna check out these links below, introducing spectacular places nearby 😉

30 Best Things to Do in Kyoto What to Do in Kyoto: Bucket List jw-webmagazine.com

Best Tours and Activities in Kyoto Kyoto Top Tours: Unique and Special Things to Do in Kyoto! jw-webmagazine.com

5 Days Itinerary in Kyoto 5 Days in Kyoto: Best Things to See jw-webmagazine.com

Best Autumn Leaves Spots in Kyoto Best Temples and Shrines in Kyoto for Autumn Leaves Viewing jw-webmagazine.com

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Written by

Naho_B_M

"The world is my oyster" A globetrotter 🌎 and hammock lover 🌞 who loves taking adventures to fuel wanderlust. Born and raised in Japan, I have spend almost a decade living and exploring countries across the world. Based on my travel experience, I'd love to share my knowledge and tips for travelling with my readers. I hope my stories help you plan your trip and have a great time in Japan 🌈