Katsura Imperial Villa

In early Edo Period, Imperial Prince Hachijonomiya Toshihito lived in Katsura Detatched Palace. It was developed over decades, known as a graceful garden throughout the Edo Period and the Imperial Household Agency took over the administration in Meiji Period. The vast ground with hills, ponds and tea houses is the oldest example of circuit style garden that exists.

A German architect, Bruno Taut, visited Japan and praised the beauty of the garden and architecture. Since then, it became widely known as a masterpiece of Japanese garden.

Passing the Miyuki Gate on to Miyuki Path, the whole picture of the wide garden comes in view. The first part is likened to Ama-no-hashidate and the sand beach, made up of the pond and stones. Shokin-tei at the center of the garden is the most valued tea house with the elegant scenery, which is like a picture framed by columns and railings. Circling around the garden, you will come to Ko-shoin, Chu-shoin and Shin-goten (studies and new palace). They were built in early to mid 17th century with the half-hipped bark roof in Irimoya style.