I visited Kyoto Gyoen National Garden the other day. The weather was not very nice, but I thoroughy enjoyed walking in the garden where Kyoto Imperial Palace is situated. It is a huge area (92 hectares) between Marutamachi st. and Imadegawa st. People in Kyoto visit there for taking a walk, having lunch, reading, etc. There are many wooden benches and tables in the trees. I often have lunch with my friends at one of the tables when the weather is nice - bringing nice Bento boxes with a bottle of wine.
I took some 360 degree images in the garden along the way. Kyoto Imperial Palace was closed when I was there. But it is open to the public 4 - 5 days a week. When it is open, admission is free and no advanced reservations are required.