Okazaki Park, Kyoto - Beautiful green and flower garden、新緑と美しい花が織りなす絶景 A superb view of fresh greenery and beautiful flowers
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Okazaki Park Kyoto

4.2
·2k reviews·Kyoto, Japan

A serene Kyoto park featuring a charming rabbit shrine and a lively monthly antique market, offering a peaceful local escape.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early mornings

Enjoy peace before crowds

CrowdLow
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Okazaki Park, Kyoto - Beautiful green and flower garden、新緑と美しい花が織りなす絶景 A superb view of fresh greenery and beautiful flowers

Okazaki Park Kyoto

Best Time

Early mornings

Enjoy peace before crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A serene Kyoto park featuring a charming rabbit shrine and a lively monthly antique market, offering a peaceful local escape.

4.2
(2k reviews)

"A perfect mix of local and touristy, offering a tranquil escape with unique finds."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Visit Okazaki Shrine

Don't miss the charming rabbit statues for good luck!

📅 Check Market Dates

Heian Nominoichi market is usually the 2nd Sat. Great for unique finds!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Okazaki Shrine Rabbits

Okazaki Shrine Rabbits

Okazaki Shrine

Discover adorable rabbit statues believed to bring good fortune, fertility, and safe childbirth. A unique and charming spiritual stop.

Instagram
Heian Nominoichi Market

Heian Nominoichi Market

Okazaki Park

Browse unique crafts, jewelry, and local goods at this vibrant monthly market. A great spot for souvenirs and local flavor.

Instagram
Tranquil Green Spaces

Tranquil Green Spaces

Okazaki Park

Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the park's serene gardens and open green areas, offering a peaceful respite from city bustle.

Planning Your Visit

Beat the Crowds

Okazaki Park is a peaceful escape, but popular spots nearby can get packed. Visit early mornings or late afternoons to enjoy the tranquility and avoid the peak tourist rush, especially if you're aiming for the antique market.

Market Days & Events

Check the schedule for the Heian Nominoichi antique market, usually held on the second Saturday of the month. These events bring a lively atmosphere but also more visitors, so plan accordingly.

Best Times

When
Early mornings
Why
Enjoy peace before crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons
Why
Golden hour glow
Crowd
Medium
When
Second Saturday of month
Why
Vibrant antique market
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

🇯🇵 Things to do in Kyoto Japan: 1. Kiyomizu-dera Temple: best time to visit is early in the morning before the crowds 2. Kazariya teahouse: 1000 year old business serving tea and sweet rice dumplings by a beautiful shrine 3. Otagi Nenbutsu-Ji Temple: temple of 1000 faces 4. Explore Higashiyama: explore at sunrise or in the evenings to escape the crowds in this historic suburb 5. Nara Park day ...
@lukemcameron
276.3K likes • 5.4M views

🎯 Visit Okazaki Shrine

Don't miss the charming rabbit statues for good luck! Instagram+1

📅 Check Market Dates

Heian Nominoichi market is usually the 2nd Sat. Great for unique finds! Instagram

8 Things to do in Kyoto 🇯🇵 ‼️ Get up to 10% off Japan activities on Klook.com with code: FEASTONITKLOOK 1️⃣ Rokujuan Tea House 2️⃣ Kimono, Tea Ceremony, Calligraphy & Gold Leaf Plate 📍 Nishiki Orizuruya 3️⃣ EAT ! 📍 Coco Ichibanya (Katsu Curry) 📍 Gion Tanto (Okonomayaki) 📍 Udon Main (Udon) 📍 Chao Chao (Dumplings) 📍 Brulee (Crème Brûlée Donut) 📍 Pontocho (Alley with restaurants) 📍 The Common One Ba...
@feastonit_
98.1K likes • 1.3M views
Hidden in Kyoto’s Higashiyama district, Okazaki Shrine is famous for its adorable stone and ceramic rabbits, believed to bring good fortune, safe childbirth, and fertility. 🐰 Founded in the early Heian period (around 794) by Emperor Kanmu to protect the new capital, it’s dedicated to the god of safe delivery, fertility, and matchmaking. The rabbit symbolizes rapid growth and family prosperity. 🐇 ...
maris_adventures_in_japan
4.7K likes • 103.2K views

🚶‍♀️ Less Crowded Than Philosopher's Path

A more accessible and peaceful walk compared to other famous Kyoto routes. Reddit

🚗 Easy Access

Just 1-2 stops past Gion, making it a convenient escape. Reddit

🗾 Comment <Kyoto> to get the map with all locations!! 🙋‍♂️Follow me @kaifromjapan01 for more Japan Travel Tips!! 📌Save this post for your next trip to JAPAN!!🗼 ━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━ <25 BEST HIDDEN GEMS in KYOTO> 💎 Eastern Kyoto 💎 📍Ruriko-in Temple 📍Kennin-ji Temple 📍Okazaki Shrine 📍Kifune Kawadoko 📍KYOTO SAMURAI NINJA MUSEUM With Experience 📍Keage Incline 📍Honen-in Temple 📍Kawai Shrine 💎 Western Ky...
kaifromjapan01
4.2K likes • 293.5K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Visit Okazaki Shrine

Don't miss the charming rabbit statues for good luck! Instagram+1

📅 Check Market Dates

Heian Nominoichi market is usually the 2nd Sat. Great for unique finds! Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Less Crowded Than Philosopher's Path

A more accessible and peaceful walk compared to other famous Kyoto routes. Reddit

🚗 Easy Access

Just 1-2 stops past Gion, making it a convenient escape. Reddit

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family Friendly

Perfect for a relaxed family day out with varied activities. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.2
(2k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Okazaki Park for its tranquil atmosphere, charming Okazaki Shrine with its rabbit statues, and the vibrant monthly antique market. It's seen as a peaceful, accessible escape from the typical tourist crowds, offering a pleasant blend of local charm and unique finds.

"I visited around a dozen parks during my trip to Japan, most of which were very highly rated and grandiose. Then I just happen to find this gem because it's situated next to a semi-famous tourist attraction which I wanted to check out. Ended up loving the park more than the attractions around it.

I loved it! A perfect mix of local and touristy and not too big. I could see myself hang out here with friends all the time if I were to come to study in Kyoto."

Siim Karel Koger

"Lovely walk with cherry blossoms and near local shrine and gardens. A lot less crowded and more accessible (1-2 stops past central Gion district) than the famed Philosophers Path."

C Y

"Perfect weather at Okazaki Park, small flea market on with a good selection with small food abd drinks variety. Good family day out for all ages."

Nathan Rowbotham

What People Like

Peaceful atmosphere
Charming rabbit shrine
Vibrant antique market

What People Dislike

Limited dining options within park

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Okazaki Park is easily accessible by public transport. Take the Keihan Line to Higashiyama Station or the Tozai Subway Line to Keage Station. It's also just a short bus ride from the Gion district, making it a convenient option if you're already exploring central Kyoto. Reddit

Yes, Okazaki Park is conveniently located near several popular Kyoto sights, including Heian Shrine and the Kyoto Municipal Museum of Art. This makes it easy to combine a visit to the park with other sightseeing activities. Instagram

The park itself is best explored on foot. For getting to the park, consider using Kyoto's efficient bus system or subway lines. Many visitors find it a pleasant walk from nearby areas like Gion. Reddit

While there might be some parking options nearby, it's generally recommended to use public transportation due to potential congestion and limited availability, especially on market days. Reddit

Yes, you can reach Okazaki Park from Kyoto Station by taking a bus (e.g., bus numbers 5, 46, or 100) or by taking the subway to Keage Station. The journey typically takes around 20-30 minutes. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Okazaki Park itself is a public space and generally free to enter. However, specific attractions within or adjacent to the park, like museums or special exhibitions, may have their own admission fees. Instagram

Okazaki Park is typically open to the public throughout the day, from early morning until evening. However, individual facilities within the park, such as shrines or museums, will have their own operating hours. Instagram

No, Okazaki Shrine is a functioning place of worship and is free to enter. You can visit the shrine and see the famous rabbit statues without purchasing a ticket. Instagram

The Heian Nominoichi antique market is usually held on the second Saturday of every month, from 10 AM to 4 PM. It's advisable to check their official schedule for exact dates. Instagram

Okazaki Park often hosts various events, including the popular Heian Nominoichi antique market and sometimes craft fairs or even concerts. Checking local event listings or the park's vicinity for posters is a good idea. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

Great photo opportunities include the charming rabbit statues at Okazaki Shrine,Instagram the scenic views of the park's gardens, and the vibrant stalls during the Heian Nominoichi market.Instagram The area in front of Heian Shrine also offers picturesque backdrops. Instagram

Yes, photography is generally allowed at Okazaki Shrine, allowing you to capture the unique rabbit imagery. However, always be respectful of worshippers and avoid intrusive photography. Instagram

Absolutely! The market is a lively place with many visually interesting items and people. Capturing the atmosphere is encouraged, but be mindful of vendors and shoppers. Instagram

As with most public spaces in Japan, drone usage is likely restricted or prohibited in Okazaki Park to ensure the safety and privacy of visitors. It's best to avoid flying drones here. TikTok

Early mornings or late afternoons offer softer light, ideal for photography. The golden hour before sunset can create a beautiful ambiance, especially around the gardens and shrine. TikTok

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

While Okazaki Park itself might have limited dining options, the surrounding area, especially near Heian Shrine and along the routes leading to it, offers various cafes and restaurants. You can also find food stalls during market days. Instagram

You'll find a range of Japanese cuisine, from casual eateries serving udon and soba noodles to more refined dining experiences. During the market, expect to find snacks and local delicacies. TikTokInstagram

Finding dedicated vegetarian or vegan restaurants might require a bit more searching, but many Japanese eateries can accommodate dietary needs. Look for places offering vegetable-based dishes like tempura or vegetable stir-fries. TikTok

Picnicking is generally acceptable in public parks in Japan, provided you clean up after yourself. Okazaki Park's green spaces are suitable for enjoying a packed lunch. Reddit

Explore the shops around Heian Shrine or wait for the Heian Nominoichi market for local sweets, matcha-flavored treats, and other Kyoto specialties. TikTokInstagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Okazaki Park is a fantastic option for families looking for a relaxed outing in Kyoto. The park's open green spaces are perfect for children to run around and play. A major draw for kids is Okazaki Shrine, with its charming and numerous rabbit statues that spark imagination and offer a fun photo opportunity. Instagram

The Heian Nominoichi market, if your visit coincides with it, provides a lively atmosphere with interesting crafts and snacks that can entertain both children and adults. Instagram It's also a great place for a family picnic, allowing you to enjoy the outdoors without the pressure of strict dining reservations. The park's accessibility and less crowded nature compared to other major Kyoto sites make it a stress-free choice for families. Reddit

🛍️ Shoppers & Market Enthusiasts

For those who love to discover unique finds, the Heian Nominoichi Antique Market is a must-visit. Held on the second Saturday of the month, this market offers a curated selection of handmade crafts, vintage items, and local produce. It's a prime spot for finding distinctive souvenirs and gifts that stand out from typical tourist fare. Instagram

Beyond the market, the area around Okazaki Park and nearby Heian Shrine offers various shops selling traditional crafts and local goods. You can spend hours browsing, and the park itself provides a pleasant backdrop for a day of exploration and shopping. InstagramReddit

🚶‍♀️ Peace Seekers & Strollers

If you're looking for a tranquil escape from Kyoto's bustling tourist spots, Okazaki Park is an excellent choice. It offers serene green spaces and gardens perfect for a leisurely walk or quiet contemplation. Reddit It's often described as a more accessible and less crowded alternative to popular walking routes like the Philosopher's Path. Reddit

Visiting Okazaki Shrine provides a peaceful spiritual experience, and the park's overall atmosphere encourages relaxation. It’s a place to slow down, enjoy the scenery, and soak in a more local side of Kyoto. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring Okazaki Shrine's Charm

Okazaki Shrine, nestled within the broader Okazaki Park area, is a delightful discovery for many visitors. It's particularly famous for its abundance of rabbit imagery, a symbol deeply connected to the shrine's deities and their blessings. Visitors often seek out the numerous stone and ceramic rabbit statues scattered throughout the grounds, believing they bring good fortune, fertility, and safe childbirth. Instagram

The shrine itself has a long history, founded in the early Heian period. Its dedication to deities associated with matchmaking and safe delivery adds a unique spiritual dimension. The atmosphere here is generally more relaxed and less crowded than some of Kyoto's more famous temples, making it a peaceful spot for reflection and a unique photo opportunity. Instagram

Beyond the rabbits, the shrine offers a glimpse into local Shinto practices. It's a place where visitors can offer prayers, purchase charms, and experience a more intimate connection with Japanese spiritual traditions. The serene setting makes it a refreshing stop on any Kyoto itinerary. Instagram+1

The Heian Nominoichi Market Experience

The Heian Nominoichi Antique Market is a highlight for many visiting Okazaki Park, typically held on the second Saturday of each month. This vibrant market transforms the park into a bustling hub of creativity and commerce, attracting local artisans and vintage collectors. Visitors can expect to find a diverse array of goods, from handcrafted jewelry and ceramics to unique clothing, potted plants, and local honey. Instagram

Unlike some mass-produced souvenir shops, the market emphasizes quality craftsmanship and unique finds. Each stall is often beautifully curated, showcasing the passion of the vendors. It's an excellent opportunity to discover one-of-a-kind items and support local artists. The atmosphere is lively and engaging, with a good selection of small food and drink vendors to keep you refreshed as you browse. InstagramReddit

Attending the market offers a fantastic glimpse into Kyoto's local culture and creative scene. It's a perfect place to find meaningful souvenirs that tell a story. Remember to check the market's official schedule for exact dates, as it's a popular event that can draw significant crowds. Instagram

Okazaki Park as a Local Haven

While Kyoto is renowned for its iconic temples and shrines, Okazaki Park offers a different kind of charm – one that resonates with locals and discerning travelers alike. It's described as a perfect mix of local and touristy, providing a more relaxed and accessible experience compared to some of the city's more heavily trafficked attractions. Reddit

The park's green spaces and gardens provide a welcome respite, making it an ideal spot for a leisurely stroll or a peaceful afternoon. Visitors have noted it as being less crowded and more accessible than the famous Philosopher's Path, offering a similar tranquil walking experience without the overwhelming throngs of tourists. Reddit

Whether you're visiting for the shrine, the market, or simply to enjoy the open space, Okazaki Park provides a genuine feel of Kyoto life. It's a place where you can imagine yourself hanging out with friends or enjoying a quiet moment amidst the city's vibrant energy. Reddit

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