Imperial Palace

Historic Site

Prefecture

Tokyo

Type

Historic Site

N/A

1 review

English Staff Train Access

About This Destination

The primary residence of the Emperor of Japan, set within vast gardens and moats in the heart of Tokyo.

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.

Location

Prefecture: Tokyo

Address: Tokyo, Japan

Nearest Station: Tokyo

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Visitor Information

Credit Cards: Unknown

Food Options: No dining facilities; restaurants available nearby in Marunouchi

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I enter the Imperial Palace?

The inner palace grounds where the Emperor lives are closed to the general public except on January 2 (New Year Greeting) and February 23 (Emperor's Birthday). Free guided tours of the outer palace area run twice daily (10:00 and 13:30, 75 min, English audio guide) but require advance reservation via the Imperial Household Agency website (sankan.kunaicho.go.jp). The East Gardens are freely open year-round (closed Mon/Fri). The Nijubashi double bridge view is photographable any time.

How do I get to Imperial Palace?

Closest stations: JR Tokyo Station (Marunouchi Central Exit, 10 min walk to Nijubashi); Otemachi Station (East Gardens entry, all 5 metro lines, 5 min walk); Sakuradamon Station (Yurakucho Line, near Sakuradamon Gate, 2 min walk). The Marunouchi-side approach from Tokyo Station is the most photogenic. By car: very limited; the Imperial Palace runners' loop has no public parking. Allow 2 hours: 30 min Nijubashi photos + 90 min East Gardens + outer moat walk.

What's the most photogenic spot?

Nijubashi (Double Bridge) is the iconic image: the stone bridge in front of the moat with Fushimi-Yagura watchtower behind. Photograph from the central viewing plaza. Best at golden hour (45 min before sunset) for warm tones on the white walls. The Wadakura Fountain Park (10 min walk north) reflects the palace skyline beautifully at twilight. The 5 km outer moat path is one of Tokyo's most popular running routes — walking it is also a meditative experience.

What's special about Cherry Blossom season?

From late March to early April, Chidorigafuchi (the moat west of the palace, near Kudanshita Station) opens for Tokyo's most beloved cherry blossom viewing — about 1,000 cherry trees line a 700m moat path. Rent rowboats (¥800/30 min) to drift among falling petals. Evening illuminations until 22:00. The Inui-dori road through the inner palace grounds opens to the public for 4 days (free), revealing previously hidden cherry tunnels. Reserve dates and arrive early — Chidorigafuchi peaks attract over 1.5 million visitors.