What to know
Katsura Imperial Villa (桂離宮, Katsura Rikyū) is a masterpiece of Japanese architecture and garden design. Completed in 1645, it served as the residence for the Katsura Family, members of the Imperial Family.
Visiting requires joining a guided tour that follows a circular path around the central pond. You can view the palace buildings only from the outside, and photography is permitted only at designated spots. English-language tours are available.
The villa is in western Kyoto, a 15-minute walk from Katsura Station on the Hankyu Kyoto Line. Alternatively, take Kyoto City Bus 33 from Kyoto Station (about 20 minutes, 270 yen; not fully covered by the one-day pass). Buses run about twice per hour. Keihan Bus routes 2 and 26 also serve the area.
Tours run multiple times daily except Mondays (or the following day if Monday is a national holiday) and from December 28 to January 4. Admission is 1000 yen per person. Some tours are conducted in English.
To book, apply in advance with your passport at the Imperial Household Agency office in Kyoto Imperial Park (open 8:40–17:00, closed Mondays). A limited number of spots can be reserved online, but they fill quickly. Online reservations must be made several days before your visit.
A few same-day tickets for Japanese tours are available at the villa from 8:40 on a first-come, first-served basis.
Visitor information
Practical details to check before planning this stop.
- Hours
- Closed
- Admission
- English name
- Imperial Household Agency
- Original name
- Katsura Imperial Villa
Verify details before visiting. Currency conversion is indicative and may vary over time.