Tokyo Imperial Palace
1-1 Chiyoda, Chiyoda, Tokyo, Kanto, 100-8111
Home to the Emperor of Japan, the Tokyo Imperial Palace occupies the site of the original Edo Castle (Edo-jō), the Tokugawa shogunate’s castle, which was once the largest fortress in the world. Located in the center of Tokyo, the palace is surrounded by moats and serene gardens.
The basics
Given that it is a royal residence, the palace interior and some of the grounds are closed to the public. You can stroll the meticulously manicured Imperial Palace East Garden, set at the foot of the hill where Edo Castle's foundation remains, and the Imperial Palace Outer Garden. From here you can view two famous bridges, the iron Nijubashi and the stone Meganebashi.
Free Tokyo Imperial Palace tours in English, organized by the Imperial Household Agency, allow you to see a small part of the inner compound. Or combine a visit to the Imperial Palace with other Tokyo attractions, such as the Asakusa and Ginza districts, on a sightseeing tour by bus or chartered taxi or a walking tour. Some tours allow travelers to stop for photos at the palace and also experience a Sumida River (Sumida Gawa) cruise, participate in a traditional tea ceremony, or take in the view from the top of Tokyo Tower.
Things to know before you go
The Imperial Palace is a must-visit for those with an interest in Japanese history.
This has been the Imperial residence since 1868 when Emperor Meiji moved here from the former capital of Kyoto.
To avoid disappointment, it is best to book Tokyo Imperial Palace tickets in advance, but walk-in tickets are also available on a first-come, first-served basis.
It is free to stop at the palace for photos, but various museums on the grounds may require admission fees.
The grounds may be closed when Imperial Court functions are scheduled.
How to get there
The Tokyo Imperial Palace is located in a large park area in the Chiyoda ward of central Tokyo. It is a 15-minute walk to Otemon Gate, the main entrance point, from Otemachi metro station, which is served by the Chiyoda, Tozai, Hanzomon, Mita, and Marunouchi lines. Free tours depart from the Kikyomon Gate, a 10-minute walk from the Otemachi and Nijubashi metro stations.
When to get there
The gardens are open Tuesday through Thursday and on Saturday and Sunday. Tours are offered morning and afternoon, every day except Sundays and Mondays, national holidays, and December 28 through January 4. Only morning tours are available between July 21 and August 31.
Cherry blossoms
During sakura, the spring cherry blossom season, more of the palace grounds with old cherry trees are open to the public. It's definitely worth a visit during this time for great opportunities to photograph blooming cherry trees framing the palace, but be prepared for bigger crowds and a more thorough security process.
Ways to explore
As this is a royal residence, the palace interior and parts of the grounds are usually closed to the public. You can, however, stroll the meticulously manicured East and Outer gardens. Some guided tours of the grounds are offered, in English and Japanese. Or, you can combine a visit with other Tokyo attractions like the Asakusa and Ginza districts, go on a sightseeing tour by bus or chartered taxi, or take a walking tour. Some tours allow travelers to stop for photos at the palace.
Accessibility
Most parts of the palace grounds are wheelchair accessible, but some paths are quite steep. Accessible restrooms are available.
Age limits
None
What to pack
Foldable umbrella for rain or sun, portable phone charger
What to wear
Comfortable shoes, sun hat
Not allowed
Drones
Amenities
Restrooms, seating areas
Address
The Tokyo Imperial Palace is in the center of Tokyo and is easily accessible from other parts of the city by road or train. Note that the public entrance is on the east side of the large complex.
Driving
Driving around central Tokyo isn’t recommended as traffic can be heavy and parking is difficult and expensive. If you must drive, there are several paid parking lots in the area.
Public transportation
The palace and gardens are accessible from several train and subway stations. Otemachi Station, just east of the complex, is especially convenient as the Chiyoda and Mitai lines converge there. Additionally, Takebashi, Nijubashimae, Yurakucho, Hibiya, and Sakuradamon stations are all nearby.
Best times to visit
The gardens are typically open from mid-morning until mid- or late-afternoon (depending on the season). The quieter morning hours are an especially nice time to visit.
Best days to visit
Guided tours of the grounds are available every day except Sunday, at 10am and 1pm. Advance reservations are required. Free guided tours of the East Gardens in English are offered on Wednesdays and Saturdays at 11am and 2pm.
Best months to visit
The gardens are especially lovely in March and April, when the cherry trees flower.
Special events
The public can enter the inner palace grounds only on January 2 (New Year’s Greeting) and February 23 (Emperor’s birthday). The imperial family greets the public from a balcony on these dates.
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