Nijo Castle

🏯 Castle

Part of Kyoto

📍

Prefecture

Kyoto

🏯

Type

Castle

⭐

N/A

1 review

🗣️ English Staff 🚃 Train Access ☕ Cafe

About This Destination

UNESCO World Heritage flatland castle. The floors squeak when you walk— designed as a security alarm. Kano school paintings inside.

Nijo Castle was built in 1603 as the Kyoto residence of Tokugawa Ieyasu, the first shogun of the Edo Period. The castle is famous for its Ninomaru Palace, which features elaborate wall paintings by the Kano school and 'nightingale floors' that chirp when walked upon as a security measure. The Ninomaru Garden is a masterpiece of Japanese landscape design. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Nijo Castle stands as one of the best examples of castle palace architecture from the Edo period.

Location

Prefecture: Kyoto

Address: 541 Nijojocho, Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto 604-8301

Nearest Station: Nijojo-mae

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Visitor Information

Credit Cards: Accepted

Food Options: Tea room and cafe within castle grounds; restaurants along Horikawa-dori

Official Website

Access

541 Nijojocho, Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto 604-8301

Get Directions

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get to Nijo Castle from Kyoto Station?

Take the Karasuma Subway Line from Kyoto Station to Karasuma-Oike, then transfer to the Tozai Line and get off at Nijojo-mae Station (about 15 minutes total). The castle entrance is a 3-minute walk from the station.

What are the opening hours and admission fees for Nijo Castle?

Nijo Castle is open 8:45 AM to 5:00 PM (last entry 4:00 PM), closed Tuesdays in January, July, August, and December. Admission is 1,300 yen for adults, which includes entry to Ninomaru Palace.

What is the best time to visit Nijo Castle?

Spring (late March to early April) is magical when cherry blossoms light up the castle grounds. Autumn foliage in November is also beautiful. Avoid Golden Week and mid-August for smaller crowds.