If you’re looking for a peaceful escape in the middle of London, then the city’s ‘most beautiful garden, which makes you feel like you’re in Japan, could be just what you need
Sometimes, we all need a moment of peace from the non-stop noise of life in the big city. Living in London can make you feel like your life is always on the go, and taking a moment to stop and breathe can do wonders for your mental health.
One of the best ways to take these much-needed breaks is to immerse yourself in nature, where you can get fresh air, listen to birds chirping, and let life slow down a bit. There are plenty of green spaces in London for you to spend an afternoon, but one location in particular is going viral for being the “most beautiful garden” in the city.
The Kyoto Garden in Holland Park has been praised for its stunning landscapes that make you feel as though you’ve been transported to Japan without ever leaving London.
In a video shared on TikTok by a travel vlogger, they said: “Kyoto Garden in Holland Park is one of London’s most beautiful gardens to visit right now.
“Cherry blossoms in full bloom, peaceful waterfalls, koi carp gliding through the pond, and that dreamy spring atmosphere that makes you forget you’re in the city. It’s the perfect spot for a slow stroll, a quiet escape, or just soaking in those serene Japanese garden vibes.”
Kyoto Garden is located in the heart of Holland Park, which is accessible from the Holland Park tube station and High Street Kensington tube station. Holland Park is free to visit and is open from 7.30am until 30 minutes before dusk.
The garden was opened in September 1991 by King Charles – then the Prince of Wales – and the Crown Prince of Japan to mark the 1992 Japan Festival in London, as part of a collaborative project between the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea and the Kyoto Chamber of Commerce.
It was designed by renowned Japanese garden designer Shoji Nakahara, and was intended as a gift from the city of Kyoto to celebrate the enduring friendship between Japan and the UK. The garden was designed to embody principles of harmony, balance, and natural beauty, and to reflect the artistry and tranquillity of Japanese landscaping.
Commenters on the TikTok video were blown away by the beauty of the gardens, with many saying they would travel to the UK capital just to visit the gorgeous gardens for themselves.
One person said: “I love the look of this place, and I may visit!”
Another added: “Such a beautiful place. Definitely must visit.”
A third wrote: “I go to Holland Park almost every week for a walk, exercise, meditation. You captured almost everything from this beautiful park with your stunning videography.”
However, some commenters pointed out that the Kyoto Garden isn’t as big as it might seem, and it’s actually quite a small area to walk around. The garden itself is situated within the 54 acres of Holland Park, though, so if you fancy a longer walk, you can stroll through the rest of the park at your leisure.
For more information on the Kyoto Garden and Holland Park, visit the Visit London website.
