Tour for Shugakuin Imperial Villa

Hi,

I am interested in visiting the Shugakuin Imperial Villa. However the tours is fully book and in japanese. Is it compulsory to join the tour if we want to visit the imperial villa.

Below is the method to get there provided by the website.

From Kyoto Station, take the JR Nara Line to Tofukuji Station (3 minutes) and transfer to the Keihan Line to its terminus, Demachiyanagi Station (10 minutes). From there, take the Eizan Railways to Shugakuin Station (7 minutes). The entire trip costs 720 yen and takes about 40 minute?

- Is there to get there by bus?
- Is Keihan Line part of the JR line?

Thanks.

Is it compulsory to join the tour if we want to visit the imperial villa.

Yes, you are required to join a tour. However, as mentioned on this page:

http://www.japan-guide.com/e/e3936.html

even when they are fully booked on the website they hold back a number of slots on each tour for foreign visitors who register in person at the imperial household agency. Just show up with your passport and you may still be able to reserve a spot if they are available. Obviously it helps if you go as early as possible and are flexible in your schedule.

The imperial household agency is on the northwest side of the Imperial Palace grounds near Imadegawa Station.

http://www.japan-guide.com/e/e3917.html

Is there to get there by bus?

Yes, bus number 5 from Kyoto Station. Get off at Shugakuin Rikyumichi bus stop (1 hr, 310 yen) from where it is an additional 15 minute walk to the villa.

Is Keihan Line part of the JR line?

No, its not.