Choosing the Best Start Point for Your Walk

The Japanese Zen Garden is a peaceful spot located on the southern edge of the spa zone. Most visitors find that the Parkhotel Richmond serves as the most convenient start point. It offers easy access and clear paths. You can reach this area by bus or on foot from the main colonnades.

For those who enjoy scenic views, starting near the Grandhotel Pupp is a great alternative. This route follows the river through a lush valley. It is a flat and easy walk suitable for all ages. You will see historic villas and beautiful forests along the way. This path is perfect for a morning walk in 2026.

If you are coming from the city center, follow the signs toward the "Richmond" area. The walk is well-marked but requires some basic navigation. You should allow about 20 to 30 minutes for the full walk from the center. This timing ensures you can enjoy the scenery without rushing.

Step-by-Step Guide to the Japanese Garden Walk

Follow these steps to find the garden without getting lost. This route is the most direct path from the southern end of the city. Use this Japanese Garden Karlovy Vary guide to plan your timing.

1. Step 1: Reach Grandhotel Pupp. Spend about 2 minutes orienting yourself at the plaza. This is a free public area. A common mistake is taking the funicular up the hill instead of staying by the river.
2. Step 2: Walk south along the Teplá River. This walk takes about 10 minutes. It costs nothing and follows Mariánskolázeňská street. Avoid walking on the main car road; use the pedestrian path instead.
3. Step 3: Arrive at Parkhotel Richmond. This takes 5 minutes from the river path. The hotel grounds are open to the public for free. A common mistake is entering the hotel lobby looking for the garden.
4. Step 4: Locate the Zen Garden entrance. Walk to the edge of the park behind the hotel for 2 minutes. Entrance is free for everyone. Do not look for a ticket booth as the garden is an open-air monument.

Essential Checklist for Your Visit

Before you head to the start point for Japanese Garden Karlovy Vary walk, prepare your gear. The garden is a place for meditation and quiet. Having the right items will make your visit more comfortable.

• Comfortable walking shoes: The paths are mostly flat but can be dusty.
• A camera or smartphone: The stone lanterns and manicured plants are very photogenic.
• Water bottle: There are no shops directly inside the small garden area.
• Offline map: While the route is simple, GPS can be spotty near the thick forest.
• Quiet spirit: Remember that this is a Zen space intended for silence.

Logistics and Decision Guide for Travelers

Deciding how to reach the garden depends on your fitness level and schedule. The local transport system is very reliable. You can check the official public transport site for current bus times. Here is a simple guide to help you choose your method.

• If you have limited time: Take bus number 2 or 7 to the "Richmond" stop. This drops you at the best start point immediately.
• If you enjoy nature: Walk from the Vřídlo spring through the park. This takes about 25 minutes.
• If you are staying in the center: Walking is the best choice to see the architecture.

Many people wonder is the Japanese Zen garden worth visiting if they are tired. It is a small site, so only visit if you are already nearby. It pairs well with a visit to the Vridlo underground spring tours earlier in the day.

Troubleshooting Your Walk to the Garden

Even simple walks can have challenges. Here are some common problems you might face during your journey. Use these tips to stay on track.

• Missing the turn: The path to the garden is behind the Parkhotel Richmond. If you reach the main road bridge, you have gone too far.
• Poor signage: Some signs only use the Czech name "Japonská zahrada." Look for this text on local maps.
• Weather issues: The path can be slippery after heavy rain. Wear shoes with good grip.
• Crowds: The garden is small and feels crowded with more than ten people. Visit early in the morning for peace.
• Closing times: The garden itself is always open, but the park lights are dim at night.
• Construction: Check the official tourism site for any path closures in 2026.