If you need some fresh air and the kids need a good play in the great outdoors, you cannot beat this playground at the north end of the Kyoto Imperial Palace Park (Gosho). It’s our go-to spot when we’re in Kyoto with the kids.
Imperial Palace Playground: © Chris Rowthorn
At the northwest end of the Kyoto Imperial Palace Park, you will find this nice little playground with a small collection of equipment like swings, see-saws, slides and a sandbox for the little ones. The playground itself is pretty basic, but the location makes it special: it’s surrounded by cherry trees, which burst into bloom in late March and early April (in fact, it’s one of the best cherry blossom spots in the entire city). But, even when the cherries aren’t in bloom, it’s beautiful – a soothing green oasis in the city.
There’s a rest area with vending machines and a bathroom nearby.
English name:
Gosho Imperial Palace Playground
Japanese name:
京都御苑 運動施設
English address:
Kyotogyoen, Kamigyo-ku
Japanese address:
上京区京都御苑
Opening hours:
Varies by facility
Admission:
Varies by facility
Non-smoking area: Yes
Nearest Transport:
8 min walk from Marutamachi Station Exit 1, Karasuma subway line
Nearest Hotels:
:: Check availability and pricing for hotels near to the Gosho Playground on Booking.com or Agoda.com.
Telephone: 211-6364
Website:
Official Website (Twitter in Japanese)
Near To Here:
Gosho Imperial Palace Playground is located in Central Kyoto. See our complete list of things to do in Central Kyoto, including places to eat, nightlife and places to stay.
Kyoto Vacation Checklist
- For all the essentials in a brief overview, see my First Time In Kyoto guide
- Check Kyoto accommodation availability on Booking.com and Agoda.com - often you can book with no upfront payment and free cancellation
- You can buy shinkansen (bullet train) tickets online from Klook - popular routes include Tokyo to Kyoto, Kyoto to Osaka and Kyoto to Tokyo
- Need tips on where to stay? See my one page guide Where To Stay In Kyoto
- See my comprehensive Packing List For Japan
- You can buy an eSim to activate in Japan or buy a data-only SIM card online for collection when you arrive at Tokyo's Narita or Haneda Airports or Kansai International Airport. You can also rent an unlimited data pocket wifi router
- Compare Japan flight prices and timings to find the best deals
- If you're making frequent train journeys during your visit, you might save money with Japan Rail Pass – see if it's worth it for you
- World Nomads offers simple and flexible travel insurance. Buy at home or while traveling and claim online from anywhere in the world
- Do you want help planning your trip? Chris Rowthorn and his team of Japan experts at Japan Travel Consulting can help
