Kyoto State Guest House

Kyoto State Guest House is a modern Japanese-style residence in Kyoto Gyoen, used to receive important guests from abroad. On selected days, you can visit its Japanese garden and rooms, either on your own or with a guided tour. The tour draws attention to the building’s careful craftsmanship, artwork and details such as carved woodwork. Tours are in Japanese, with a tablet providing audio and video in English for visitors who need it. Check the official website for public access days before you go.

A residence for official guests

Kyoto State Guest House is used to receive important guests arriving in Kyoto from abroad. Its Japanese-style architecture continues through the rooms and garden, giving the visit a different focus from the city’s older castles.

The grounds are part of Kyoto Gyoen, which also contains the Sento Imperial Palace and the Kaninnomiya Residence. Public access to the Guest House is available on selected days, so check the official website before planning a visit.

How the tour works

You can explore the grounds independently or join a guided tour. Tours are conducted in Japanese; visitors who do not speak Japanese can use a tablet with audio and video clips in English. The tour takes about 90 to 100 minutes.

Look for the details in the building’s architecture and interiors, including carved woodwork on the bridge roof, crafted furniture and other artworks. The tour provides a closer look at the design than a walk through the rooms alone.