Maruyama Park turned out to be one of those perfect "anytime" spots in Kyoto - it's basically the city's 24/7 green escape button. While it's most famous for its cherry blossoms (that weeping cherry tree is basically a celebrity in spring), what made it special for us was how it serves as this peaceful buffer zone between the shrines and the bustling Gion district.

The fact that it stays open all hours makes it unique - most Japanese parks have closing times, but Maruyama keeps its gates open, offering a quiet spot to decompress no matter when you need it. Whether you're taking a breather between temple visits or looking for a peaceful late-night stroll after dinner in Gion, this park's got your back.

Sure, it's stunning during cherry blossom season with its 680+ trees, but there's something magical about having access to this pocket of nature in the heart of Kyoto at any hour. The pond area becomes especially atmospheric after dark when most tourists have cleared out.