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The Imperial Palace is the imperial palace of Japan. Formerly known as "Miyagi," this name was abolished after World War II and replaced with "Imperial Palace." The Imperial Palace comprises the "Gosho," the "Palace," and the Imperial Household Agency. It's known by many names, including "Naiko," "Gosho," "Ouchi," "Ouchiyama," "Miyagi," "Hōdō," "Omiya," "Unjo," and "Unjo." A visit to the Imperial Palace is a must-see. Kitanomaru Park and the Imperial Palace Square are combined into the Imperial Palace Gardens. As the outer area of the Imperial Palace, the Imperial Palace Gardens are a must-see for anyone visiting the Tokyo Imperial Palace. Nijubashi Bridge is another popular attraction. Nijubashi Bridge is one of Tokyo's most popular photo spots and a must-see on every postcard representing the city. To get a glimpse into the life of the Emperor, this is a must-see.
Suitable for all seasons;
The subtropical monsoon climate has four distinct seasons and abundant rainfall. Summer is influenced by the southeast monsoon, bringing heavy rainfall, while winter has less snowfall.
It is recommended to play for 3 hours;
Nearby attractions: Nijubashi Bridge, Chidorigafuchi Park, Imperial Palace Gardens, Nihonbashi, Ginza, Akihabara, etc.
Free and open
Open all day
The Imperial Palace, located in Tokyo, is the residence of Japan's Imperial Family. Built on the site of the former Edo Castle, it holds great cultural and historical significance. The palace symbolizes Japan's imperial heritage and continues to be the center of the Japanese monarchy. It is also an important landmark in Tokyo, showcasing traditional Japanese garden design and architecture.
The Imperial Palace is located in Chiyoda, Tokyo. The closest subway stations are Tokyo Station (JR and Tokyo Metro lines) and Nijubashi-mae Station (Chiyoda Line). From either station, it's a short walk to the palace grounds. Taxis and buses are also available but may be less convenient during peak hours.
The Imperial Palace grounds are open from 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM. The East Gardens are open every day except for Mondays and Fridays. The best time to visit is in spring (March to May) or autumn (September to November) when the gardens are at their most beautiful, with cherry blossoms or autumn leaves. Weekdays are less crowded compared to weekends.
Entrance to the Imperial Palace East Gardens is free. However, special tours of the Inner Palace and the East Gardens may require a booking, and some tours are available for a small fee. Tickets for tours can be obtained online or through the official palace website, and reservations are required for the Inner Palace tour.
For special tours of the Inner Palace, it is recommended to book tickets at least one month in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons. For general visits to the East Gardens, no advance booking is required.
To explore the East Gardens and the surrounding areas, plan for about 1 to 1.5 hours. If you’re visiting during peak seasons or attending a guided tour, it may take up to 2 hours.
Guided tours are available in Japanese and English. The tours offer insights into the history of the Imperial family and the palace. Audio guides are also available in multiple languages, including English, Japanese, Chinese, and French.
Start your visit by entering through the Otemon Gate to explore the East Gardens. From there, take a stroll through the landscaped areas, visit the historical ruins, and enjoy the seasonal flowers. If you have time, proceed towards the Nijubashi Bridge and enjoy the views from the palace plaza. For those attending a guided tour, the route will be directed by the guide based on the tour's focus.
Night visits are not available, but there are occasional seasonal events such as night-time cherry blossom viewing or special exhibitions, which may require advance booking. Please check the Imperial Palace website for any announcements on these events.
The Imperial Palace can get crowded, especially during weekends and public holidays. To avoid the crowds, visit during weekdays, especially in the morning before noon. Visiting during the off-season, such as winter, can also help you avoid the busiest times.
There are public toilets near the palace entrance and in the East Gardens. However, there are limited food options inside the palace grounds. Nearby, you’ll find plenty of cafes and restaurants in Marunouchi and the surrounding areas. Rest areas are available within the gardens for visitors to relax.
The Imperial Palace is accessible for elderly visitors and those with disabilities, with wheelchair access available in most areas. The East Gardens have paved paths and gentle slopes, making them suitable for visitors of all ages.
While entry to the East Gardens is free, some special tours may accept card payments. It’s recommended to carry cash for any incidental purchases or donations. Credit cards and mobile payments are accepted in nearby shops and restaurants.
Yes, there are vegetarian, vegan, and halal food options in nearby restaurants, particularly in the Marunouchi and Tokyo Station areas.
There are souvenir shops near the palace where visitors can purchase traditional Japanese items, such as Imperial Palace-themed souvenirs, Japanese paper fans, and calligraphy items.
