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Tokyo Imperial Palace

The current Imperial Palace (�c��, Kōkyo) is located on the former site of Edo Castle, a large park area surrounded by moats and massive stone walls in the center of Tokyo , a short walk from Tokyo Station . It is the residence of Japan's Imperial Family .

Edo Castle used to be the seat of the Tokugawa shogun who ruled Japan from 1603 until 1867 . In 1868 , the shogunate was overthrown, and the country's capital and imperial residence were moved from Kyoto to Tokyo . In 1888 construction of a new Imperial Palace was completed. The palace was once destroyed during World War Two , and rebuilt in the same style, afterwards.

From Kokyo Gaien, the large plaza in front of the Imperial Palace, visitors can view the Nijubashi, two bridges that form an entrance to the inner palace grounds. The stone bridge in front is called Meganebashi (Eyeglass Bridge) for its looks. The bridge in the back was formerly a wooden bridge with two levels, from which the name Nijubashi (Double Bridge) is derived.

The inner grounds of the palace are generally not open to the public. Only on January 2 ( New Year's Greeting ) and February 23 ( Emperor's Birthday ), visitors are able to enter the inner palace grounds and see the members of the Imperial Family , who make several public appearances on a balcony.

Furthermore, guided tours of the palace grounds are offered during the rest of the year, although no buildings are entered. The tours take about 75 minutes and are held in English and Japanese daily at 10:00 and 13:30 except on Mondays, Sundays and national holidays . Advance reservations can be made through the Imperial Household Agency (see links below ), but same-day registrations before the start of the tours are also possible at the Kikyomon Gate.

Adjacent to the inner grounds of the palace are the Imperial Palace East Gardens which are open to the public throughout the year. See the East Gardens page for more details.

Getting there and around

The Imperial Palace is a ten minute walk from Tokyo Station .

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Questions? Ask in our forum .

Links and Resources

Imperial household agency, application for visit, hotels around tokyo.

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• A guide to the Tokyo Imperial Palace: history & how to tour

Main content starts here.

Updated: October 28, 2020

Tokyo Imperial Palace and its beautiful gardens are a world away from the hustle bustle of the city. Just a 10-minute walk from Tokyo Station and the high-rise Marunouchi financial district, this calm green oasis covers an impressive 1.15 square kilometres in the central Chiyoda Ward. Built on the site of the former Edo Castle, the palace became the permanent home of the Imperial Family in 1869. While you can’t go inside, except on rare special occasions that let you glimpse the interior, the surrounding manicured lawns, topiary trees and meticulously maintained gardens are not only visually enchanting but give a good idea of what being royalty is all about.

Edo Castle turned Imperial Palace

For over 250 years, Japan was ruled by the Tokugawa shogun during what was known as the Edo Period – Edo being the old name for Tokyo. The current Imperial Palace, known as Kokyo in Japanese, sits on the former site of Edo Castle. However, in 1868, the shogunate was overthrown, and Japan’s capital was moved from Kyoto to Tokyo, with the Imperial Residence moving with it. The palace was destroyed during the Second World War but rebuilt in a similar style afterwards.

Copyright Imperial Household Agency of Japan

Visiting the Tokyo Imperial Palace

You can call by the site of the Imperial Palace any time –its perimeter is a popular jogging route and the East Gardens are open to the public year-round. However, to make the most of your visit and get a good historical overview, put on some comfortable shoes and take a walking tour.

Check the Imperial Palace’s official website for a map of the grounds.

Imperial Palace Walking Tour

Some part of the inner palace grounds can only be viewed on a tour, which is held in English and Japanese, twice daily, Tuesday thru Saturday. While same-day tickets are available, you can easily skip the queues by making an advance reservation for a ticket through contacting the Imperial Household Agency. The tour is open and distributed from 9:00 for the morning tour starting at 10:00, and 12:30 for the afternoon tour starting at 13:30. The 75-minute tour meets at Kikyomon Gate. Although it won’t take you inside the palace, you will get the chance to see historical and beautiful sites such as the Mt. Fuji-view Keep and the Lotus Moat, and, of course, you will cross over the famous Nijyu Bridge, considered a symbol of the palace and even Tokyo itself.

East gardens

Open daily except Mondays, Fridays and designated holidays, these beautiful Japanese gardens are free to the public and especially popular for their dazzling cherry blossoms during the spring and their vibrant autumn foliage later in the year. Take a stroll for a glimpse into the area’s history as the former site of Edo Castle-you can view and climb the foundation of a castle tower that burned down over 350 years ago. Also stop by the Museum of the Imperial Collections.

"Ippan Sanga"－ Seeing the Imperial Family

Since the Imperial Palace is the main residence of the Imperial Family, it is fairly understandable that they can’t welcome visitors all year round. But there are two days a year when you catch a glimpse of them up close. As part of a New Year celebration , on January 2nd, the grounds of the Imperial Palace are open to the general public. Large crowds gather in the square in front of the Chowaden Reception Hall where the Imperial Family make five scheduled public appearances from morning to early afternoon. Due to the large crowds, leave your bags behind and wear comfortable shoes. It may take more than two hours to get to the Main Gate from the Front Plaza of the Imperial Palace due to a large turnout so make sure to arrive well in advance.

The other opportunity to get up close to the Imperial Palace is on the date of the current Emperor’s birthday-February 23rd. The Imperial Family will make three appearances and you can also sign the Greeting Book.

Hotels near the Imperial Palace

Sitting truly in the heart of Tokyo and with great access to the city, there are plenty of hotels around the Imperial Palace. Imperial Hotel Tokyo is a luxurious hotel that has won 5 stars on the hotel information website "five Star Alliance". It opened in 1890 in order to accommodate an influx of distinguished international visitors.

The Forbes Travel Guide five-star Palace Hotel Tokyo is also known for its perspective on the city and a singular, moat-side setting just opposite the Imperial Palace gardens.

For more mid-range and budget accommodation, take a look in the Hanzomon area on the western edge of the palace grounds or around Kudanshita to the north.

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• Tokyo's Imperial Palace & Nihonbashi Tour

Photo Credit: Viator

This tour will take you around the Imperial Palace in Tokyo, a deeply historical site once home to Edo Castle, and where the Emperor and Empress of Japan reside today. It then moves onto nearby Nihonbashi, a bustling commercial district with stores that have been in business for over 400 years.

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Why We Recommend This

• Explore the grounds of Tokyo's Imperial Palace, including the beautiful East Gardens and ruins of Edo Castle, with a knowledgeable English-speaking guide.
• Learn about the Imperial Palace’s highlights, such as the Nijubashi Bridge, and the many seasonal plants and flowers that adorn its gardens.
• Follow it up with a tour of Nihonbashi, one of Tokyo’s biggest and oldest commercial districts.
• Visit a variety of long-established stores, and taste their specialties like dashi soup stock, sake, and seaweed. You can also try knife sharpening and craft your own sheet of Japanese “washi” paper.
• Gain a deeper knowledge of the old Tokyo that still lies beneath its modern facade.

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1-9, Marunouchi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo

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Tokyo Imperial Palace Mega Guide

Just ten minutes from Tokyo Station lies Tokyo Imperial Palace: a wealth of gardens and galleries, with guided tours and castle ruins.

Like an island of respite, the Tokyo Imperial Palace is surrounded by parks and gardens offering a getaway from the busy city streets. Surrounding the home of the Emperor, the grounds are painstakingly maintained and are one of the top destinations for visitors to the capital.

Covering 1.3 square miles, the grounds include  hanami  (cherry blossom viewing) spots, art galleries, historical ruins and beautiful gardens—plus a private section reserved for royalty, of course. Once the site of Edo Castle, the land is now among the most highly valued in Japan, and is a short walk from Tokyo Station .

If you’re planning to visit, there are organized tours of inner areas available for free, as well as special days when you can see the Emperor himself—so read on and learn all you need to know about Tokyo Imperial Palace and the treasures it holds!

Pro tip: Book a private guided tour to get the most out of your visit to the Imperial Palace in Tokyo.

The History of Tokyo’s Imperial Palace

The current palace grounds were the site of Edo Castle, and before that, the residence of warrior Edo Shigetsugu. The land was close to Hibiya , which was then a beach, and was a strong flatlands location, strengthened by moats. Built in 1457 by Ota Dokan, Edo Castle (also known as Chiyoda Castle) was an important location in the development of Japan. During the Siege of Edo, it was taken over by the Hojo clan, and was later abandoned during the Siege of Odawara in 1590. The castle later became the base of Tokugawa Ieyasu and the Tokugawa Shogunate was formed there, with the castle becoming the military capital. Read more about the history of Tokyo . If you want some more of Edo-era Tokyo then heck out these old-school corners of Tokyo or these unusual theme parks in Japan .

Following the Meiji Restoration it became the Imperial Palace, with Emperor Meiji residing there until the new palace was built. Unfortunately, like many old Japanese structures, almost nothing remains of the original castle or ancient buildings today following fires, earthquakes and war damage—but a few small areas have survived. The Tenshudai (pictured above) is the foundation of the once-tallest tower in Japan, and can be found in the East Gardens.

Tokyo Imperial Palace grounds and gardens

Although the inner grounds are off-limits for the majority of the year, visitors are still able to explore the parks and gardens free of charge and without registration. The area is divided into three main sections: the East Gardens, Kitanomaru Koen Park and the Kokyo Gaien National Garden—all surrounded by a great jogging route for those who would like more than a stroll.

The East Gardens

Opened to the public in 1968, the East Gardens are located in the innermost circles of Edo Castle: the Honmaru and Ninomaru . The former was the principal complex where the rulers spent their daily lives, the latter was where meetings would take place with visiting feudal lords. The two areas combined form one of the last Edo Gardens to be preserved in Japan, and are filled with carefully-maintained seasonal flowers and trees. The Honmaru is a large lawn area and the Ninomaru a manicured garden, creating a great space for escaping the city and relaxing in much-needed nature.

The gardens also contain some of the few remnants of Edo Castle, including the moat walls, the entrance gate and some guardhouses. On the lawn of the Honmaru area you can see the imposing foundations (tenshudai) of the former castle tower, which was once the tallest castle tower in Japan. Unfortunately, it only stood for 19 years, as it was destroyed in a fire in 1657 and never rebuilt. 

Pro tip: If you’re keen to know which flowers will be in season when you visit the Tokyo Imperial Palace gardens, check this handy (and very extensive) flower guide .

Opening hours

The East Gardens are closed on Mondays and Fridays, as well as from Dec 28th – Jan 3rd and on some special occasions. Otherwise, they are open from 9am to 4pm, with hours extended until 4:30pm between March 1st and April 14th, and until 5pm from April 15th – August 31st. Last entry is half an hour before closing. Entry is free, but you may be given a small entry token to return when you leave, so they can keep track of guests before closing.

Access: The East Gardens are easily accessible from Otemachi Station. Look for the Otemon Gate.

Kokyo Gaien National Garden

First opened to the public in 1949, Kokyo Gaien was previously part of the palace grounds and features the Nijubashi Bridge. The bridge was originally made with wood, and then an extra level was added, causing it to be nicknamed the “double bridge.” The area was once known as Nishinomarushita and was the location of the servants’ houses.

As well as the famous Nijubashi, you can see the Sakuradamon Gate, which is a cultural asset, and a bronze statue of samurai Masashige Kusunoki .

Slightly confusingly, the title of Kokyo National Garden is usually reserved for the section of gardens in front of the palace, but is also occasionally used to refer to the entire gardens complex, including the parks, so keep that in mind if you get confused (we’ve stuck to the specific garden use here).

Access: This area is best accessed by the Sakuradamon Gate (near Sakuradamon Station). Since it is a public park, access is free and unrestricted.

• Kitanomaru Park

A real green oasis, Kitanomaru Park was once a medicinal garden and is almost entirely surrounded by a moat, giving it a real escapist feel (aside from all the other people). There are two original Edo gates at the entrances: the Shimizumon Gate, which leads you to the Chiyoda ward office, and the Tayasumon Gate, which takes you to Kudanshita Station, and was built in 1685. The park was opened to the public in 1969 to commemorate the 60th birthday of Emperor Showa and is a mix of flowers and woodland—perfect for getting some shade in summer .

You can follow the Chidorigafuchi walking path, which includes a moat-side stretch with cherry-blossom in spring, without the risk of being run down by joggers. From April to November, you can rent paddle-boats on the moat, which is especially lovely when surrounded by pink blossom, and creates a pretty picturesque scene for onlookers too. The park is also home to the Science Museum, Nippon Budokan and the National Museum of Modern Art, but more on those below!

Access: This area is best accessed from the East Gardens or Takebashi, Kudanshita or Hanzomon stations. Since it is a public park, access is free and unrestricted.

Guided tours of Tokyo Imperial Palace

If you would like to get closer to the Tokyo Imperial Palace, you can join one of the official guided tours for access to some of the inner areas. They will take you to special spots including the  Fujimi-yagura  (Mt. Fuji-view Keep) and the  Hasuikebori  (Lotus Moat), as well as offer views of treasured spots like the Seimon Testubashi Bridge and the Fujimitamon Defence Gate. You will also get pretty close to the Imperial Palace itself, and can see the more modern additions to the royal grounds.

Tokyo Imperial Palace tours are free but require registration, either in advance online or on the day. Currently, only 120 guests are accepted each day (previously 500), with 70 spaces available for on-the-day registration (previously 300), with reccommendations to arrive early if you can.

The tours take place at 10am and 1:30pm and are conducted in Japanese and English, although headsets may be available in a few other languages. The tours take around 75 minutes and visit 11 different spots—starting from the Kikyomon Gate , which is also where you register.

There are also private guided tours of the Tokyo Imperial Palace available.

Alternatives

Instead of a tour, you can download the free Imperial Palace audio guide app , if you’re the type who prefers to wander around. You can also find free guided tours that take in the palace and other Tokyo sights. Renting a bicycle and cycling around the special 3km palace course that’s open on Sundays is also a fun idea.

Bonus attractions at the Imperial Palace

As well as the gardens and guided tours, the green escape is home to a number of additional attractions that are well worth a side-visit during your stroll. These three are positioned up in the northern area of the gardens in Kitanomaru Park.

National Museum of Modern Art, Tokyo

Home to countless examples of Japanese and international modern art, this museum is a treasure trove for modern art lovers. There are excellent works in the permanent collection including photography by Walker Evans, abstract pieces by Willem de Kooning and works by Wassily Kandinsky. There is a focus on the effect of Western art on the Japanese scene and vice versa, and artists such as Yayoi Kusama and Ai Mitsu have pieces on display. The museum is also home to Japan’s National Film Center, which has a great collection, as well as regular screenings.

Hours: 10am – 5pm, 9pm on weekends | Closed Mondays | Free access on the first Sunday each month, otherwise entry is ¥ 500 for adults and ¥ 250 for students. 

Nippon Budokan

Built to host the judo tournaments of the 1964 Olympics, the Budokan is a large sports arena that still hosts martial arts events as well as other sporting events. The national championships of judo, kendo, aikido and karate are still held here annually and can be a great opportunity to see traditional sports in action. If you like Japanese sports, then be sure to check out our guide to seeing sumo while you’re in town!

It has also become a popular music venue; the first music performance was the Beatles in 1966 and since then hundreds of performers have take to the stage, including Diana Ross, Prince, AKB48 and Morning Musume. The venue is still popular and is a great place to check out events while you’re in the area! Take into consideration though that if there is an event on the day you visit, you may want to avoid Kudanshita Station.

Science Museum

This museum is mainly for the kids and their adults, as it is a family-friendly educational mainstay that has been entertaining the Tokyo youth since 1964. It is a bit of an “all-in-one” museum and includes displays on computer technology, transport, space, the future, life sciences and more.

Hours: 9:30am – 4:50pm (last entry 4pm) | Closed Wednesdays (check their website for exceptions) |  Entry is ¥ 950  for adults and ¥ 500 – ¥ 600 for children, free for those under 3.

Special dates at Tokyo’s Imperial Palace: Seeing the Emperor

They may be few, but they are not far between: the three special entry days for the Imperial Palace all take place in winter, from the 1st of December to the 23rd of February. Offering glimpses of the palace and even of the Emperor himself, these days are incredibly busy due to their rarity, so be prepared for crowds and queues!

Note: Currently, you have to pre-register for these events.

January 2nd – New Year Greeting

This is a rare chance to see the Imperial Family as the Emperor, Empress, and family appear on the balcony of the Chowaden Hall to greet well-wishers. The event is hugely popular, and crowds are immense, so be prepared. There are five appearances , with the first two including the adult family members and the remaining three including the younger members too. The times are: 10:10am, 11am, 11:50am, 1:30pm and 2:20pm. You can enter the grounds at the main gate from 9:30am until 2:10pm but it is advisable to arrive early. More information .

February 23rd – The (new) Emperor’s Birthday

To celebrate his birthday, the Emperor and his family are expected to continue tradition and make three appearances from the balcony of the Chowaden Hall. The day is also a national holiday, so it is a whole new level of busy. In the afternoon, a guestbook is opened to all visitors, and tents are set up allowing everyone to write a message to the Emperor. From 12:30pm to 3:30pm, the book is in front of the Imperial Household. The appearance times are 10:20am, 11am, 11:40am, and you can enter the grounds from 9:30am until 11:20am at the main gate. Note that the East Gardens are closed on this day, but visitors can exit through them. More information .

December 1st-9th – Visit of the General Public to Inui Street

Between 9am and 3pm on these days, you can walk straight through the palace grounds from the Sakashitamon Gate to the Inuimon Gate. This route will mean you have the Fukiage Gardens and Imperial Residence on your left, and the East Gardens to your right, with a good portion of the walk following the Hasuikebori moat. More information .

Rules and considerations

The process for seeing the Emperor and Imperial Family is relatively straightforward. Nearby stations are flooded with well-wishers being directed by police, so just follow the crowds to the main palace gate (Nijubashi), which opens at 9:30am and is only entrance open that day. Once you reach the gate, there is a brief security check before you are handed a small Japanese flag made of paper and sent off on a brief walk to Chowaden Reception Hall. The Emperor and his family appear in a glass-enclosed viewing gallery above the crowd as everyone cheers and waves their flags wildly. The Emperor gives a brief speech, and then the crowd is shuffled in the direction of well-marked exits.

Getting to the Tokyo Imperial Palace

If you’re heading straight over from Tokyo Station , it’s a simple 10-minute walk from the Marunouchi Central Exit (not Yaesu), heading out onto Gyoko-dori and heading straight down to the Wadakura-mon Gate.

If you’re wanting to register for a palace tour, you need to head to the Kikyomon gate, which is a 10-minute walk from Nijubashimae Station or Otemachi Station via the Otemon Gate, or 15 minutes from Tokyo Station.

For the northern area, you can head to Kudanshita Station for the Nippon Budokan and Science Museum or Takebashi Station for the National Museum of Modern Art.

Imperial FAQ: All Your Questions Answered

There’s a lot of information about the palace, so if you’re looking to have your simple questions simply answered, then look no further.

How old is the Tokyo Imperial Palace?

Technically the Imperial Palace buildings are all modern, but the use of the site as a castle is over 550 years old.

When was the Tokyo Imperial Palace Built?

While the current buildings are a modern creation, the site was home to the Edo Castle, built in 1457. The castle changed hands and was destroyed and rebuilt over the centuries, becoming the Imperial Palace after the Meiji Restoration in 1868.

What is inside Tokyo Imperial Palace?

There are outer grounds which are open to exploration with museums and gardens, inner gardens which are only open on specific days, and the palace itself, which is never open to the public.

Who Lives in Tokyo Imperial Palace?

Emperor Naruhito lives in the Imperial Palace with his wife Empress Masako and his only child, Princess Aiko. He is the 126th monarch of Japan and took over when his father Emperor Akihito abdicated in 2019.

Can you go Inside Tokyo Imperial Palace?

While some of the grounds and gardens are open daily, the inner section is only open on certain days (see above) and the actual building is never open to the public.

Keen on Exploring Other Historical Sites? See our guide to the best castles in and around Tokyo . Also read about the Kyoto Imperial Palace .

While we do our best to ensure it’s correct, information is subject to change. Post first published in January, 2018. Last updated May, 2022.

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Complete Guide to the Tokyo Imperial Palace: Tour Reservations and the Best Ways to Enjoy Your Visit

The Emperor of Japan, one of the most revered symbols of Japan, resides in the Tokyo Imperial Palace. This is one of the tourist attractions with the largest number of visitors in the world. Built over 400 years ago, the Tokyo Imperial Palace is adorned with flowers all year round, with many natural and green spaces, and there are numerous sights to see within. All these are free for the public to view at their own pleasure, making it a great place to just drop by if you’re ever in the mood for a visit. We’ll walk you through some of these sights in the Tokyo Imperial Palace with photos!

Tokyo Imperial Palace is an oasis in the city

The statue of kusunoki masashige, with his undying loyalty for the emperor, the nijūbashi bridge, which leads to the inner palace, sakurada-mon: the largest existing gate to the tokyo imperial palace, ninomaru gardens, where you can enjoy nature to the fullest, the ruins of the donjon of edo castle, where you can see japan’s largest donjon, the inner palace, which you can visit if you make a reservation prior to visiting, book an unforgettable experience in tokyo.

In the Tokyo Imperial Palace, there are three main areas that you can visit, the East Gardens and Outer Gardens , which you can visit for a stroll without any prior reservations, and the Inner Palace, which requires reservations. The palace grounds span approximately 230 hectares (568 acres). Just a 15-minute walk away from Tokyo Station , the vast expanse of greenery and natural landscapes makes it an oasis amidst the towering skyscrapers of the big city. Adorned with a forest of black pine trees and benches along the walking route, the Outer Gardens are an excellent place where you can take breaks while taking for a leisurely stroll. First, we’ll introduce the Outer Gardens , which you can visit for free.

In 1900, the statue of Kusunoki Masashige was erected in the southeastern side of the Outer Palace, and is a popular photo spot, as one of the Three Great Copper Statues of Tokyo. The subject of the statue, Kusunoki Masashige, was a loyal samurai who served the 96th Emperor, Emperor Go-Daigo. He contributed immensely to overthrowing the Kamakura Shogunate, and is a beloved figure of the Japanese. As it is considered impolite for the face of the statue to face the imperial palace directly, one curious trait of the statue is that it faces the opposite direction of the Tokyo Imperial Palace. The lively horse that the figure sits upon is another draw of the statue, and regardless of which angle you look at it, the balance of the sculpture looks equally beautiful.

One of the bridges constructed to reach the Inner Palace from the square in front of the Tokyo Imperial Palace is Nijūbashi Bridge, which was constructed in 1614. Renovated in 1888, and once more in 1964, its shape changed to become what it is now. The beautiful castle which you see behind the bridge is Fushimi -yagura, which was moved over from Kyoto in 1628, and the sight of it paired with Nijūbashi Bridge makes for a lovely view. The bridge is usually closed to the public, and only open twice a year, on the Emperor’s birthday and on New Year’s Day, when the public is permitted to enter the Inner Palace, where the Emperor greets the masses.

Built in 1612, the Sakurada-mon is the largest surviving gate to the Tokyo Imperial Palace. Destroyed in a fire during the Great Kanto Earthquake of 1923, it was reconstructed into the steel storehouse structure that stands today. The contrast of the finely shaped stone bottom with the white storehouse above is a beautiful sight, and is a popular photo spot for tourists. The double structure of the inner and outer gates allows for a gap in between the two, and it is a great place to see the streets of Tokyo from afar. From the Outer Gardens , we introduced the Kusunoki Masashige statue, the Nijūbashi Bridge, and the Sakurada-mon gate. Next, let’s check out the East Gardens .

A garden with varied landscapes intended for walks and strolls, it was once the villa of shoguns. At approximately 20 hectares (49 acres), this large garden has plum blossoms in February, azaleas in April and May, irises in June, and maple in Autumn , and you can enjoy the changing scenery all throughout the year. The ponds in the garden are home to fish, turtles, and other small animals, and you can even see the Hirenaganishiki-goi, a breed of koi fish that is highly prized in Japan. Affectionately referred to as the Ninomaru Thicket for its forest -like atmosphere in the middle of the city, it’s a place where you can relax amidst nature .

Previously where Edo Castle stood, all that’s left at the Ruins of the Donjon of Edo Castle is its stone foundation. Standing at 11 meters high and 40 meters across on each side, it is a breathtaking sight up close, as the largest donjon in Japan. Destroyed in the Great Fire of Meireki in 1657, all that’s left of the Edo Castle is the stone foundation, which still bears blackened areas and marks from the fire to this day. The area where the castle stood has become an observation deck instead, and a slope was constructed for easier access. From the top of the observation deck, you can catch a 360 degree panoramic view of the nature in the Imperial Palace surrounded by the towering skyscrapers of Tokyo.

If you make a reservation beforehand, it’s possible to tour the Inner Palace. Besides making reservations on the day itself, reservations can be made over the internet as well, and can be done in a variety of languages including English, French, Spanish, Chinese, and Korean, amongst others.

Tours of the Inner Palace happen twice a day, once in the morning at 10:00 a.m., and once in the afternoon at 1:30 p.m. Reservations for the following month can be made starting from the 1st of the previous month, but due to the immense popularity of the tour, it can be quite difficult to get a reservation several days before your visit. Instead, it’s recommended to make your booking as soon as reservations open, on the 1st of the previous month.

On top of this, personal identification documents such as your passport are needed for entry, so do remember to bring them on the day of your visit. There is a smartphone application, “Imperial Palaces Guide”, available for download. The application provides audio tours, and like the home page, is available in multiple languages, including English, French, Spanish, Chinese, and Korean. It’s recommended that you download the application before the tour itself, and on the day of the tour, you can request for an English speaking guide to bring you around too.

Within the Inner Palace, there are shops too, where you can buy rare souvenirs. From Japanese sake and sweets , to dishware and Japanese wrapping cloths, these souvenirs bear the motif of the chrysanthemum flower, which is the symbol of the Japanese Imperial family. With so many items that are only available for sale here, be sure to check out the souvenir shop . Do be aware that you’ll only have a chance to buy souvenirs before the tour starts, so take note! During the tour, you’ll get to see the Imperial Household Agency up close, which is a government agency responsible for handling matters related to the Imperial Family, as well as the Emperor’s residence within the Tokyo Imperial Palace. Do grab this chance to solemnly experience Japanese culture in this historic building. One of the draws of the Tokyo Imperial Palace is the different ways you can experience it, from a leisurely stroll through the East Gardens and Outer Gardens , to the tour of the Inner Palace where you can view the chambers of the Emperor himself. We introduced numerous places of interest within the Imperial Palace, and if you have opportunity, be sure to check them out!

• Address 1-1, Chiyoda, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, 100-8111 View Map
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Garden strolls, art treasures and tours within an imperial castle's grounds

Home to the emperor of Japan, the Imperial Palace is built upon the site of Edo Castle, home to the Shogun before 1868. Protected by wide moats and thick walls and surrounded by meticulously kept gardens, the grounds offer a peaceful green contrast to the steel and glass of downtown Tokyo's modern office buildings.

Runners, cyclists and strolling couples and families frequent the outer palace grounds. There are tours of the grounds as well, and you can get in to see the imperial art collection for free.

• Tours of the inner palace grounds—the only way to see the Emperor's home
• The seasonal flowers and castle ruins in the East Garden
• Taking advantage of the free admission to the Imperial art collection

How to Get There

The outer gardens of the Imperial Palace are extensive, and can be reached from several different gates and metro stations.

The Ote-mon gate is a popular option, since it was the main gate of Edo Castle. The gate is a five-minute walk from the Otemachi subway station, or a 15-minute walk from Tokyo Station.

The Hirakawamon and Kita-hanebashimon gates are located closer to Kitanomaru Park; both are a five-minute walk from Takebashi Station on the Tozai metro line.

Tokyo's own Central Park

Japanese gardens and woodlands surrounded by skyscrapers.

A view of the Suwano teahouse

Sights beyond the palace

* The information on this page may be subject to change due to COVID-19.

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Tokyo Imperial Palace: Day Tour

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Signing up for a tour of Tokyo Imperial Palace is one of those things that I had been meaning to do for a long time, but figured I could do anytime so never actually bothered to register.

For those not already aware, Tokyo Imperial Palace is not generally open to members of the public. The closest tourists can usually get to the inner grounds is Seimonishi Bridge to take a picturesque photograph of the famous Nijubashi with Fushimi-Yagura Keep in the distance. There are only two occasions each year when the inner grounds are open to members of the public: 2 January for the New Year’s greeting and the Emperor’s birthday.

The Imperial Household Agency does, however, offer 75-minute tours of a limited section of the inner grounds. It used to be the case that you needed to reserve a place via the official website ; however, in a bid to accommodate the expected increase in tourism in the run up to the 2020 Olympics same-day registration has been possible since mid-2016.

So what of the tour itself? Well, as I mentioned, it is a very limited tour. It is entirely outside; you will not be able to enter any of the buildings in the grounds. The tour departs in groups of over 100 people with the guide taking you past several buildings, explaining a little about the history of each through a portable megaphone.

Given the number of people participating in the tour and the wide open spaces in which the guide gives his introductions, unless you’re at the front of the group you’re going to struggle to hear anything. Audio guides are available in Japanese, English, Chinese, Korean, French and Spanish and can be download to iOS and Android via this link . They do also provide a pamphlet (and a sheet of A4 with translations) that give a one or two sentence explanation about each building, but the tour itself is only conducted in Japanese.

The tour starts from an administrative building near Kikyo-mon Gate . There is a security check before you go through, but there are no restrictions on photographs during the tour so you feel free to take your camera equipment (they only ask you to refrain from large group portraits—presumably because setting up tripods and the whatnot would hold everyone else up). The tour takes you past the following main buildings:

Mt. Fuji View Keep

A 3-storey keep that has withstood much of what nature has thrown at it since its reconstruction in 1659. One of the oldest remnants of the former Edo Castle.

The Imperial Household Agency Building

Head office of the Imperial Household Agency was built in 1935. It was used as the home of the family for some years after the war as reconstruction took place on the Imperial Palace.

Kyuden Totei Plaza

Perhaps somewhat surprisingly, the Imperial Palace itself is—whilst an impressive structure—maybe not what many are expecting. The main building that faces the plaza is called Chowaden (長和殿) a 160-meter long structure with a 100-meter balcony.

The balcony is a lot lower than the television images and newspaper photographs have many believe. The guide explained that images of the imperial family greeting flag-waving visitors on the special occasions when the grounds are open to the general public are deliberately taken from a lower position to give an impression of the balcony being more raised.

Nijubashi & Fushimi-Yagura Keep

These two structures will be familiar to anyone who has visited the Imperial Palace: the ornate stone bridge and the white castle-type structure in the distance that must rank among Tokyo’s most photographed buildings. This is the highlight for many, and is also the turnaround point. The route back takes a slight detour down Yamashita-dori between the Imperial Palace and the Imperial Household Agency building, but is more or less the same as on the way.

Incidentally, the best photograph opportunity on the tour is on the way back as you walk past the small slope that leads to the main building of the palace. Stop here and you can see a beautiful view of Mount Fuji Keep surrounded by greenery with the office buildings of Otemachi in the distance.

The tour is free and, although limited, provides a good glimpse inside the Imperial Palace. The explanations definitely put the tour into a better context so be sure to download an audio guide before you depart, as the pamphlets only give the briefest of descriptions.

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Tokyo Imperial Palace - Opening Hours, How To Get There, And What To Do

By gowithguide travel specialist: fidelia a..

Things To Do

When visiting Tokyo, I bet that you would want to take a peek of the Imperial Palace. However, you might not know when is it opened and what you can do there.    Here in this article, I will discuss all the things you need to know about Tokyo Imperial Palace, including opening hours, hot to get there, and what to do when you arrive. Let's go!

About the Imperial Palace Area

The main area itself is not open for public.   This is perhaps because the Imperial family themselves still lives in the premises. This is why the main area of the Imperial Palace is closed for public, except on two specific day of the year, which is January 2nd for New Year’s Greetings event and December 23rd which is the Emperor’s Birthday.

However, there are guided tours of the palace grounds offered regularly throughout the years. This tour though does not enter any building. The tour itself spanned for about 75 minutes but would be held in Japanese. Foreign visitors could take English audio headsets.

Prior bookings are required to join the guided tours of the palace grounds. You can book the tour via their website, filled in the form which is in English, or ask someone (hint: a guide !) to book one for you. I found some tours  here which offers a walking tour around the Imperial Palace. If you still have questions or unsure feel free to send a tour request .

If you’re lucky, you could get same-day bookings if there are some spots available. Go to the Kikyomon Gate before the start of the tour of the day.

  Imperial Palace East Garden

The Imperial Palace East Garden is located in the inner area of the Palace. They were part of the former Edo Castle, which was destroyed in a fire. Although none of the building still exists to this day, the moats, entrance gates, and walls are still there. Even several guardhouses still exist.

You can visit the Imperial Palace East Garden from Otemachi Subway Station within a 10 minutes walk. If you prefer to use the JR line, you can stop at Tokyo station and take a 10 to 15 minutes walk to the Imperial Palace Area.

What to do nearby

Chidorigafuchi park.

This park is popular, especially during the Sakura season. It is basically one of the 12 moats that surround the palace. In this particular moat, the river is lined with beautiful Sakura trees. Although there is no park around the moat, visitors could still enjoy a boat ride for a fee.

This place would be extremely crowded during the hanami (flower viewing) season. There are a few spots for picnic available, but it would be full in no time. If you want to enjoy a picnic in this area, you should come earlier and tag the best spot or send someone to get it first!

Kitanomaru Park

This is another one of the moats surrounding the Palace. Located in the north of the palace, this place used to be a military base before it was converted to a park in 1969. You can find Sakura trees in this moat too, and the plus point of Kitanomaru Park is that this place has more spots for picnics. This park is also quite well known for its Autumn leaves!  

Marunouchi Area

The Marunouchi Area lies in close proximity from Tokyo station. It has long been established as a high-class area. This area is lined with skyscrapers and fancy shopping and dining areas. The Marunouchi Area is most famous during the winter season, as thousands of LED lights up the trees in Naka-dori street. This is a definite spot to stop-by for your sightseeing trip around Tokyo Imperial Palace!

Getting the right time to see the Imperial Palace might be difficult.    As I mentioned before, you need prior reservations for the guide. However, this might be difficult if you are not used to Tokyo’s public transportation. You might miss your booking since you got lost somewhere down the road.  Fear not!  I have a way to get you out of this mess: Hire a private guide !  If you hire a private guide, you would be able to get reservations easier. Moreover, your guide could also provide ideas about where to go next from the Imperial Palace!

For those of you who are looking for a private guide, then I would recommend you to get one from GoWithGuide ! Not only that they have excellent guides that would cater to your every need, but they also offer you the best customer service as possible to make sure you’re in the right hands. If you want to include other destinations within your trip, check out all the other private tour groups that are available as well as other cultural activities available in Tokyo.

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I have been working as a journalist for 37 years in Kyodo News Service, Japan’s most prestigious news agency. From 1989-1991, I was dispatched to Cyprus, Nicosia and working as a Middle East correspondent. I covered the Gulf War during the time. I worked at Kyodo’s New York bureau from 1994-97 covering the Wall Street and the United Nations. Although I am still working as a journalist here in Japan, I would love to have an opportunity to introduce my country to people from abroad as a tour guide. I will show you the best of Tokyo and other noted palce Including Kyoto.                                                                                                                                  

My name is Grant I lived more than 10 years in Japan. I graduated University and translation school in Tokyo. I am fluent in Japanese. I have a degree in Asian studies and have expert-level knowledge of Japanese culture and history. I have memorized the JR rail system across all of Japan, I use the same train timetable calculators as the station staff, and I have experience using bullet train passes that are exclusive to foreign visitors. I can optimally navigate the Tokyo underground and maximize value from a Tokyo metro pass and also understand Tokyo above ground which will allow for seamless transitions between different metro stations and landmarks with minimal backtracking. My tour fee is 10,000yen for 1-3hours (67.68USD) 20,000yen for 4-6hours (135.28USD) 30,000yen for 7-9hours (202.93USD) 40,000yen for 9-12hours (270.57USD) (15,000yen for the special Whisky Tour(101.37USD)) I have half-day tours listed at 20,000 yen (135.28USD) at the moment but you can combine them or do a custom tour for roughly up to 9 hours for 30,000 yen (202.93USD). The time transiting to and from your hotel for pick up or drop off within Tokyo 23wards does not count towards an increase in the price.                                                                                                                                  

Konnichiwa! I'm Aya, your spirited and adventure-loving tour guide in the dazzling metropolis of Tokyo, Japan! As a passionate explorer and a Tokyo enthusiast, I'm here to make your journey through this massive city an unforgettable experience filled with laughter, wonder, and excitement! With me, you won't just be sightseeing; you'll be embarking on a thrilling quest to uncover the hidden gems and taste the most delectable treats that Tokyo has to offer! I, myself am a big anime lover so if you have your favorite anime, let our exhilarating anime tour in the city of Tokyo where it is ingrained with subcultures! I love traveling the world and I'm passionated about learning new cultures and meeting new people to share the experience with! So with me, you won't just get shown around Tokyo! Please tell me about your country, your culture Also, I'm a cafe-exploring enthusiast as well as izakaya hopping and hot spring! Let's paint Tokyo with joy and laughter together! Let the journey begin!                                                                                                                                  

Bonjour! Je m’appelle Yoko, je suis guide diplômée. J’habite à Tokyo, dans le quartier appelé Yanesen, depuis plus de 10 ans. J’aime bien mon quartier, il se trouve au milieu de Tokyo, mais il garde l'atmosphère d’autrefois.Il y a plus de 100 temples et sanctuaires, les festivals de sanctuaire sont des événements importants pour les habitants, dans les rues commerçantes, il y a de vieux magasins qui animent les rues même aujourd’hui. C’est comme un village, les habitants sont ouverts, amicaux et sympas, il y a de vrais échanges entre eux. Je crois qu’il y a de vieux Tokyo, de vraie vie quotidienne de Tokyoïtes qui ne changent pas depuis longtemps à Yanesen. J’aime bien aussi voyager, découvrir la culture vivante tout en faisant la connaissance avec des personnes locales. Et c’est pour cela que quand je voyage, j’aime bien aller aux marchés, aux cafés et aux restaurants populaires entre les habitants. J’aime aussi le saké depuis 5,6 ans, mais je n'aimais pas le saké, je croyais que le vin était le meilleur, et qu’il accompagnait presque n’importe quel cuisine. Mais aujourd’hui je crois que le saké est le meilleur pour accompagner la cuisine japonaise et notamment quand on voyage dans des régions au Japon, il permet de communiquer plus facilement avec des personnes locales. Pour approfondir mes connaissances, j’ai obtenu le diplôme de saké sommelier et travaille dans une entreprise de saké. Je vous guiderai dans ce bon vieux Tokyo afin que vous puissiez découvrir une vraie vie quotidienne de Tokyoïte, tout en servant d'intermédiaire entre vous et les habitants du quartier. Et bien sur, je peux organiser également le tour sur mesure, tout en répondant à vos demandes pour votre voyage innoubliable! J’espère que l’on se voit très bientôt à Tokyo!                                                                                                                                  

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Kyoto: Nijo-jo Castle & Ninomaru Palace Guided Tour

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Discover the enchanting Nijo-jo Castle and its magnificent Ninomaru Palace on a guided tour in Kyoto, Japan. Enjoy the rich history and cultural significance of this iconic feudal-era architectural masterpiece.

Originally built as the residence of the first shogun of the Edo Period, Nijo Castle later became an imperial palace. With exclusive access to restricted areas and a knowledgeable live tour guide, this guided tour offers an unforgettable experience.

Witness the best surviving examples of castle architecture from Japan’s feudal era.

Good To Know

• Nijo Castle is a significant historical and cultural asset in Japan.
• The castle is divided into three distinct areas: the Honmaru, Ninomaru, and the surrounding gardens.
• The Ninomaru Palace served as the shogun’s residence and office on visits to Kyoto.
• Nijo Castle is designated as a UNESCO world heritage site and is considered the best surviving example of castle architecture from Japan’s feudal era.

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Overview of Nijo-jo Castle & Ninomaru Palace

Nijo-jo Castle and Ninomaru Palace are frequently visited historical and cultural sites in Kyoto, offering visitors a unique insight into Japan’s feudal-era architecture.

Visiting Nijo-jo Castle is like stepping back in time and exploring Kyoto’s rich history. Built in 1603, the castle served as the residence of Tokugawa Ieyasu, the first shogun of the Edo Period. After the fall of the Tokugawa Shogunate in 1867, it became an imperial palace.

Nijo-jo Castle is designated as a UNESCO world heritage site and is divided into three areas: the Honmaru, Ninomaru, and surrounding gardens. The main attraction is the Ninomaru Palace, which served as the shogun’s residence and office during visits to Kyoto.

This castle and palace are considered the best surviving examples of castle architecture from Japan’s feudal era. Exploring Nijo-jo Castle is a must for anyone interested in Kyoto’s history.

Historical Significance of Nijo-jo Castle

With its designation as a UNESCO world heritage site and its role as a former residence of the shogun, Nijo-jo Castle holds great historical significance in Japan. The castle’s feudal era architecture is a testament to the country’s rich history and cultural heritage.

Here are some key points highlighting the historical importance of Nijo-jo Castle:

• Feudal Era Architecture: Nijo-jo Castle is considered one of the best surviving examples of castle architecture from Japan’s feudal era. Its structures, such as the Ninomaru Palace, showcase the intricate design and craftsmanship of the time.
• Cultural Importance: As the former residence and office of the shogun during visits to Kyoto, the Ninomaru Palace played a crucial role in Japanese politics and governance. It symbolizes the power and influence of the shogunate during the Edo Period.
• UNESCO World Heritage Site: The recognition of Nijo-jo Castle as a UNESCO world heritage site further emphasizes its historical and cultural significance . It’s a testament to the castle’s enduring legacy and its importance in preserving Japan’s heritage for future generations.

Highlights of the Ninomaru Palace

The Ninomaru Palace, a crucial component of Nijo-jo Castle, offers visitors a captivating glimpse into the political and architectural significance of the shogun’s residence during the Edo Period.

The palace, renowned for its exquisite architecture, showcases the grandeur and opulence of the ruling shogunate. Its design features intricate artwork, ornate decorations , and sliding doors adorned with beautiful gold leaf. The palace also boasts a remarkable feature known as ‘nightingale floors’ which emit chirping sounds when walked upon, serving as a security measure against potential intruders.

Beyond its architectural marvels, the Ninomaru Palace holds immense cultural significance. It was here that important political decisions were made, diplomatic meetings were held, and lavish ceremonies were conducted.

Today, visitors can explore the palace and enjoy the rich history and cultural heritage of Japan’s feudal era.

Included in the Guided Tour

Included in the guided tour is a comprehensive exploration of the various areas within Nijo Castle, providing visitors with a holistic understanding of its historical and cultural significance.

• Tour schedule and availability: Visitors can check the availability of the tour to see the starting times and plan their visit accordingly. The tour lasts for approximately one hour, allowing participants to fully enjoy the rich history of Nijo Castle.
• The role of Nijo Castle in Japanese history: The guided tour offers unique insights into the importance of Nijo Castle in Japanese history. Originally built in 1603 as the Kyoto residence of Tokugawa Ieyasu, the first shogun of the Edo Period, the castle later served as an imperial palace after the fall of the Tokugawa Shogunate in 1867. This tour allows visitors to explore the significance and impact of Nijo Castle on Japan’s feudal era and beyond.
• Live tour guide: Participants will have the opportunity to be guided by a knowledgeable tour guide who’ll provide detailed explanations and answer any questions, ensuring a fulfilling and educational experience.

Important Information for Visitors

Visitors to Nijo Castle and Ninomaru Palace should take note of some important information before embarking on their guided tour.

Firstly, it’s essential to check the availability of the tour to ensure a seamless experience. The tour is conducted in English and lasts for approximately one hour. It’s recommended to arrive early to avoid any delays.

It’s important to note that the tour is closed on every Tuesday of July, August , December , and January , as well as from December 26th to January 3rd due to the closure of Ninomaru Goten.

Plus, visitors should be aware that the admission fee to the venue isn’t included in the tour and must be paid in cash on-site.

Lastly, each paid participant is allowed to bring one child aged 0-12 to join for free.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is There a Dress Code for Visiting Nijo-Jo Castle and the Ninomaru Palace?

There is no specific dress code mentioned for visiting Nijo-jo Castle and the Ninomaru Palace. However, comfortable footwear is recommended for the tour, as there will be a lot of walking involved.

Are Photography and Videography Allowed During the Guided Tour?

Photography and videography are allowed during the guided tour of Nijo-jo Castle and Ninomaru Palace. However, visitors should be mindful of the ethical considerations and respect the importance of preserving these historical sites.

Is There a Specific Age Restriction for the Guided Tour of Nijo-Jo Castle and the Ninomaru Palace?

The guided tour of Nijo-jo Castle and Ninomaru Palace does not have a specific age restriction. However, it is important for visitors to dress appropriately when visiting these historical sites.

Are There Any Restrictions on Touching or Entering Certain Areas of the Castle and Palace During the Tour?

Some areas of the castle and palace have restrictions on touching or entering during the guided tour. The tour provides accessibility options and a live tour guide for a detailed and informative experience.

Can Visitors Bring Their Own Headphones or Earphones for the Guided Tour?

Visitors cannot bring their own headphones or earphones for the guided tour. The tour provides earphones only to paid participants. This ensures everyone can fully enjoy the informative and engaging experience.

To sum it up, the Nijo-jo Castle and Ninomaru Palace guided tour in Kyoto offers an immersive experience into the rich history and cultural significance of this iconic architectural marvel.

With exclusive access to restricted areas and the chance to witness the opulent lifestyle of the shogun, visitors are guaranteed an unforgettable journey through Japan’s feudal era.

Don’t miss the opportunity to explore this UNESCO World Heritage site and discover the captivating beauty of Nijo Castle and its exquisite Ninomaru Palace.

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Tour the Imperial Palace in Tokyo for Free

By: Author Dave Lee

Posted on Last updated: February 19, 2024

Japan's Imperial Palace in central Tokyo has been the official home for Emperors since 1868; visitors can experience it up close on a free guided tour.

The Imperial Palace stands on the site of Edo Castle (est. 1457), a symbol of Japanese history and the seat of power for the Tokugawa shogunate during the Edo period (1603-1868).

When Emperor Meiji moved the capital from Kyoto to Tokyo in 1868, the castle transformed into the Imperial Palace, the residence of Japan's Imperial Family.

It's a testament to Japan's enduring monarchy, one of the oldest in the world, and represents the cultural and historical continuity of the nation amid rapid modernization and change.

In this article, I'll share my experience of touring the Imperial Palace for free on my second trip to Tokyo and how you can do the same.

Table of Contents

Fujimi-yagura

Kokyo kyuden chowaden, nijubashi bridge, fushimi-yagura, free walking tours, touring the imperial palace.

Kel and I hit the breakfast buffet early at the Hilton Tokyo before walking to Shinjuku train station for the ride to Tokyo Station, a few blocks east of the Imperial Palace.

I wanted Kel to experience the impressive Tokyo subway system at least once during our brief stay en route from Vietnam to Texas .

The Imperial Palace, with its moats and gardens, covers a massive 280 acres in the center of Chiyoda City, a district in the middle of Tokyo.

We arrived at the parking lot outside the Kikyo-mon Gate by 9 a.m. and received a numbered ticket (#56) for the morning's free tour.

Due to work schedules, our only opportunity to see the palace grounds together was that morning. Since we had no idea of the demand for these free tours, we were grateful to have gotten there early enough.

At 9:30 a.m., the staff began collecting the tickets, and the free 90-minute tour of the Imperial Palace began near the East Gardens with a walk across the first of several bridges and through the Kikyo-mon Gate.

The large stone walls of the gate and inside the palace grounds reminded us of the Inca walls of Machu Picchu .

The Fujimi-yagura, also known as the “Mt. Fuji-viewing tower,” is one of the few remaining watchtowers of the original Edo Castle, which now forms part of the Tokyo Imperial Palace complex.

This three-story tower holds significant historical and architectural value. It is strategically located on the castle's northeastern corner, a spot traditionally believed to be vulnerable to evil spirits in Japanese geomancy.

Constructed in 1659 during the Edo period, the Fujimi-yagura is an excellent example of traditional Japanese castle architecture, featuring stone foundations, white plaster walls, and characteristic tiled roofs with curved eaves.

The tower was used for defense and as a lookout point, offering panoramic views of the surrounding area, including Mount Fuji, on clear days—hence its name.

The Fujimi-yagura is one of only three remaining towers on the grounds of the Imperial Palace and is designated as an Important Cultural Property by the Japanese government.

Its significance lies not only in its architectural features but also in its role as a symbol of the shogunate's power and the continuity of Japan's imperial tradition.

The second noteworthy building you visit on a free tour of the Imperial Palace in Tokyo is the Kokyo Kyuden Chowaden (or Kyuden for short).

This grouping of interconnected buildings includes the Chowaden Reception Hall, the largest building on the palace grounds.

These modern, steel-reinforced concrete buildings were completed in 1968, after the originals were damaged by fire in May 1945, toward the end of World War II .

The Japanese Emperor and Imperial family make public appearances from a balcony here twice a year. The two occasions are a New Year's Greeting on January 2 and the Emperor's birthday on February 23.

Kyuden Plaza, from which I took these photos during the tour, can hold thousands of visitors for such events. The Kyuden complex includes a State Banquet Hall and the Emperor's offices.

Behind the Kyuden lie the palace's inner grounds and the Imperial Residence, home to the Emperor of Japan, which is neither visible nor accessible during the tour.

Our tour of the Imperial Palace in Tokyo continued with a walk south through the Nishinomaru Gate to the Nijubashi Bridge.

The Nijubashi Bridge is one of the most iconic and picturesque features of the Tokyo Imperial Palace. Its name, which translates to “Double Bridge,” refers to the two distinct bridges that cross the moat leading to the palace's main entrance.

The outer stone bridge is called Meganebashi or “Eyeglass Bridge” due to its arches' resemblance to eyeglasses when reflected in the water. The Kokyo Gaien National Garden and the modern Marunouchi business district are visible beyond it.

The inner bridge, closer to the palace, is a wooden bridge officially named Nijubashi, although the term often refers to both bridges collectively.

Nijubashi Bridge holds architectural and symbolic significance. It serves as the ceremonial entrance to the inner palace grounds, where the Imperial family resides, and is often seen in photographs and representations of the palace.

The bridge's elegant design and reflection in the moat create a serene and picturesque scene, making it a popular spot for foreign tourists and photographers. The inner bridge is only accessible on a guided tour.

While standing on the inner Nijubashi Bridge and looking west, visitors can admire Fushimi-yagura, another of the surviving watchtowers in the Tokyo Imperial Palace.

This two-story tower is at the southern end of the palace grounds, near the Sakurada-mon Gate. It is named after Fushimi Castle in Kyoto , as it is believed that the materials used in its construction were brought from there.

The Fushimi-yagura is an important historical structure showcasing traditional Japanese castle architecture with its white walls, tiled roof, and wooden interiors.

It served as a defensive lookout point, providing a strategic vantage point for monitoring the surrounding area and guarding the castle against potential threats.

At this point in our complimentary tour of the Tokyo Imperial Palace, we began the short walk back to where we started, retracing our steps past the Kyuden (Reception Hall) and Fujimi-yagura castle.

We were reminded that the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace were free to visit and did not require a guide.

This area includes Sannomaru Shozokan (The Museum of the Imperial Collections), which requires advanced booking and timed entry (1,000 yen or $6.65). If you don't take the tour, this museum is accessible via the Ote-mon Gate.

In addition to these beautiful gardens, there are several more attractions within Kitanomaru Park, a short walk north. These include The National Museum of Modern Art, the Science and Technology Museum, and the Nippon Budokan concert hall.

I called for an Uber to take her back to the hotel while I continued on foot to lunch at Sezanne , which I was excited to cover for Feastio, my food blog.

Free guided tours of the Imperial Palace in Tokyo can be organized in advance by following the instructions on the official website . There's a 200-person limit to these tours.

There, you'll also find instructions for walk-in registration if you prefer to try your luck on the day of the tour you want. You'll need a government ID such as a passport or Driver's License. A maximum of 300 people are allowed for these guided tours.

We took the latter approach, and I'm sure we benefited by visiting in February instead of the warmer spring and summer months. We had about 50 people on our tour, which felt like a lot, so I can't imagine several hundred at a time.

If you prefer a more curated and personal experience, you can pay for a private tour through a booking site like Get Your Guide .

Dave is the Founder and Editor in Chief of Go Backpacking and Feastio . He's been to 66 countries and lived in Colombia and Peru. Read the full story of how he became a travel blogger.

Planning a trip? Go Backpacking recommends:

• G Adventures for small group tours.
• Hostelworld for booking hostels.

Monday 19th of February 2024

Great write up Dave, I am adding this to my to do list for our next trip to Japan. Cheers.

Gardens of the Imperial Palace

Home to the Emperor, the Imperial Palace and the Gardens of the Imperial Palace are some of the most iconic sites in Japan. Nestled within beautiful parkland, the Imperial Palace feels far removed from the sights and sounds of Tokyo’s nearby thriving center. The palace is surrounded by large gardens which are divided into the Inner Palace Grounds and the Imperial Palace East Gardens.

To explore the Inner Palace Grounds, visitors are required to make an application via the Household Agency, however; the East Gardens are open to the public all year round, making it the perfect place for a little relaxation amongst this thriving city.

History of the Gardens of the Imperial Palace

The Imperial Palace grounds and gardens were once the home of Edo Castle; a majestic building that played a significant role in the establishment of Tokyo as we now know it. As the residence of the Tokugawa shogun for over 250 years, Edo Castle was at the forefront of Japanese culture and tradition. As the country was almost completely closed off from the entire world, Japan focused on creating its own customs including the famous Japanese tea ceremony which is still valued to this day.

With a 51-meter stone wall to shield it, Edo Castle was the largest castle in Japan. It was protected by two moats with the outer moat reaching 15 kilometres to the Sumida River. The samurai trained and protected the castle until the Tokugawa shogun was overthrown in 1868 by Emperor Meiji.

As this marked the end of the Edo period, the Emperor renamed the city Tokyo and launched it as the new capital of Japan. A fire in 1657 and subsequent earthquakes slowly led to the demise of Edo Castle. Since 1881, the Imperial Palace has stood in its place and visitors can still find ruins of the original castle in the gardens.

Visiting the Gardens of the Imperial Palace

The East Garden is the ideal place for leisurely walks on a sunny day. Meander through the beautifully landscaped gardens and climb the remaining foundations of Edo Castle for a broader view of the grounds. This garden is the perfect way to while away the day and take in the tranquil beauty of the plants, trees, and sculptures throughout the park.

The Museum of Imperial Collections is located within the park and has an astonishing collection of imperial artifacts and artwork. The best way to learn more about the gardens, the Imperial Family, and the history of Edo Castle is to join a free two-hour walking tour. These group tours are arranged by the JNTO information center and are a great way to meet fellow travelers. For those who wish to get a little closer to the Imperial Palace, the best time to visit is 23 December and 2 January when the Emperor and his family open their gates to the public and make an appearance on the balcony. This is a unique event and a wonderfully cultural way to see the palace in more detail.

During the Cherry blossom season (early April), the gardens become extremely busy. This is a beautiful time to see the gardens in full bloom but do prepare for large crowds. We also recommend trying to visit early in the morning to beat peak times.

Combine a guided visit to the Imperial Palace Gardens with an informative exploration of Tokyo’s other bucket-list sites on our Best of Tokyo Day Tour . Accompanied by your expert guide, you’ll tour the beautiful gardens, visit the Meiji Jingu Shrine, shop on Nakamise-dori Street, enjoy an authentic Uji Matcha experience, take a cruise on Tokyo Bay, and so much more.

Tour The Best of Tokyo

How to Get to the Gardens of the Imperial Palace

The gardens are just a 15-minute walk from Tokyo station. The closest station to the East Gardens is Otemachi Station (exit 13b) and Takebashi (exit 1a).

Opening Times

The park is open from 9:00 to 16:30 and closes at 17:00 during the summer (mid-April-August). Admission is free and the last entry is 30 minutes before closing.

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