~ Carp feeding experience & stroll around Nijo Castle area ~
Shinsen-en: A historic garden dating back to the Heian period
🏯Shinsen-en
Time stops in the garden of the Heian period—Kyoto's "hidden spot"
Shinsen-en was once a garden for the emperor that spread to the south of the Daidairi in Heian-kyo.
During the Heian period, it was a prestigious place where aristocrats enjoyed boating and poetry, and where rain-making ceremonies were also held. It is now a Shingon Buddhist temple, and is loved as a "hidden spot in Kyoto" where time quietly ticks away.
Shinsen-en is a power spot that has existed since the Heian period✨
🌉When you cross the vermilion bridge…
Colorful carp come up to you from the pond, asking for food!🐟💕
The pond spreads out in the center of the temple grounds, and the sight of the carp swimming leisurely is impressive. If you stand by the pond, the carp will sense your presence and come over to you, and you can have the rare experience of feeding them from your hand.
The view from the vermilion-hued Hojo Bridge is picturesque in any season. It's perfect for those who want to enjoy some quiet time with a camera in hand.
🍘You can buy food on the spot!
It's very popular with children because you can feed them directly from your hand.👶✨Why not enjoy interacting with the cute carp and ducks by the pond, where time flows leisurely?
📍🚲Access (from Villa Kyoto Saiin)
Villa Kyoto Nishiin can be reached from Shinsenen on foot (approximately 25-30 minutes), but we also recommend using public transportation.
- If using city bus :
Take city bus (route) from bus stop B of "Nishioji Shijo" → Get off at "Nijo Ekimae" and walk for about 10 minutes - If using subway :
Take subway Tozai line from "Nishioji Oike" station → Get off at "Nijo" station and walk for about 8 minutes - 🔹 10 minutes by bicycle :
Enjoy the scenery of the townhouses and feel like you're on a little bike ride🌸
🏯Sightseeing model course
① Feed the carp at Shinsen-en Garden 🐟💖
↓ 5 minute walk
② Visit the World Heritage site [Nijo Castle] 🏰✨
↓ Lunch 🍜
③ Visit cafes and general stores on Sanjo Street ☕🛍️
A course for those who want to enjoy sightseeing, nature, history, and gourmet food in one day 💯
📍Shinsenen Basic information
📌 Higashi-iru, Shinsenen-cho, Oike-dori, Nakagyo-ku, Kyoto City
🕖 Opening hours: 7:00-20:00
🎟️ Free admission
💡We recommend feeding the animals between 9:00-17:00!
(※Food may sell out)
📸A photogenic shot!
The vermilion Hosei Bridge, the greenery reflected on the surface of the pond, and the many carp fish…📷✨
Be sure to visit to take a quiet yet memorable photo💚