Okochi Sanso Garden

Okochi Sanso is the former villa and garden of Okochi Denjiro (大河内傳次郎, 1898-1962), one of the most celebrated actors of Japanese silent cinema, known for his samurai roles. He spent 30 years and his entire fortune creating this exquisite strolling garden on the hillside above the famous Arashiyama bamboo grove. The garden spans 20,000 square meters with views of Mount Hiei, the Hozu River valley, and on clear days, distant Kyoto cityscape. Several traditional buildings dot the grounds, including tea houses and the actor's former residence. The admission fee includes matcha tea and a traditional sweet served in a tea house overlooking the garden. The villa is located at the northern end of the bamboo grove path, making it an ideal destination after walking through the bamboo forest.