"The Shugaku-in was originally constructed by the retired
Emperor Go-Mizunoo, starting in 1655, with the initial construction completed in 1659." (Wikipedia 5/2014). It has wonderful gardens (upper, middle, and lower). The paths are quite intentional, revealing the views at the proper time.
Prof. Masako Bando of Kyoto University kindly helped me gain admission -- and accompanied me! Such tours of imperial villas are usually reserved for visitors to Japan, and perhaps their Japanese hosts.