Imperial Palace

The Imperial Palace occupies the grounds where Edo Castle once stood, the seat of Tokugawa shoguns who ruled Japan for over 250 years. Today it serves as the residence of the Emperor, a role it has held since the Meiji Restoration transferred power from Kyoto in 1868. While the inner palace grounds remain closed to the public except by advance reservation, the East Gardens offer free access to beautifully maintained Japanese gardens, impressive stone walls from the original castle fortifications, and the foundations of the former castle keep. The iconic Nijubashi double bridge, framed by weeping willows and traditional turrets, has become one of Tokyo's most recognizable images. Guided tours of the inner grounds can be arranged through the Imperial Household Agency, offering a rare glimpse into the formal gardens and historic buildings that most visitors see only from across the moat.