The Imperial Palace: the heart of Tokyo
- japansophy
- Sep 24
- 4 min read
An island of open space and historical architecture in a city of dazzling high-rise buildings, the Imperial Palace is probably the first thing that catches your eye when you look at a map of Tokyo.
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Surrounded by imposing moats and massive stone walls, this tranquil refuge is the official residence of the Emperor of Japan and a symbol of the nation’s enduring heritage. The palace grounds was once the site of the Edo Castle (you can visit the ruins of the old Edo Castle in the East Garden), which was the seat of the Tokugawa shogunate that ruled Japan from 1603 to 1868. After the Meiji Restoration, when the Emperor moved from Kyoto to Tokyo, Edo Castle became the Imperial Palace. Although the central palace buildings are not open to the public except on special occasions (January 2nd and the Emperor’s birthday), the palace grounds and gardens remain a peaceful green oasis in the middle of Tokyo’s business district. Visitors can explore the beautiful East Garden, walk along the impressive moats, and view the iconic Nijubashi Bridge.
Getting there – where is the Imperial Palace?
Nearest station: Nijubashimae Station (Chiyoda Line) or Otemachi Station (multiple lines including Marunouchi, Tozai, and Hanzomon) are the closest stations for seeing the Nijubashi Bridge and getting a peek of the main palace building. If you want to explore the East Garden, entrances are just a few minutes' walk away from Otemachi and Takebashi Stations. The impressive and historical Sakuradamon Gate has it's own station on the Yurakucho Line.
By taxi: The palace is easily accessible by taxi, though the grounds themselves are for pedestrians only.
Accessibility: The grounds are generally flat and accessible, with paved paths and ramps available. There are some smaller gravel paths.
Opening hours & best time to visit
Opening hours: The East Garden is generally open from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., but it is closed on Mondays, Fridays, and for certain holidays.
Best time to visit: The grounds of the Imperial Palace are expansive and never get very crowded. In spring and autumn, parts of the grounds (Inui Street) are opened to the public for around 10 days for cherry blossom and autumn leaf viewing. Check the official website of the Imperial Household Agency for dates.
Time to avoid: Avoid Mondays and Fridays, as the East Garden is closed.
Reservations & admission
Reservations: No reservations are needed to visit the East Garden or walk around the Kokyo Gaien Park. The Imperial Palace offers free guided walking tours around the palace, including some areas not generally open to the public. These tours must be booked in advance, online or by applying in person at the Imperial Palace. The Imperial Household Agency has a guide here.
Ticket/admission price: Entry is free to the East Garden. Official palace tours are also free of charge.
What can you see & do at the Imperial Palace?
The Imperial Palace East Garden: The most popular part of the palace grounds open to the public. Here you'll find the remains of the old Edo Castle, as well as beautifully manicured gardens, moats, and towers.
Nijubashi Bridge: The famous "Double Bridge" is the main entrance to the inner palace and a popular photo spot. It’s particularly beautiful when lit up at night.
The Outer Garden & Moat: Take a walk around the palace's Outer Garden, and admire the massive stone walls and tranquil moats that surround the entire complex.
Sakuradamon gate: The impressive, historic Sakuradamon gate is an Important Cultural Asset and is typical of Edo-period castle architecture. It was the scene of the assassination in 1860 (of a feudal lord, Ii Naosuke, who is buried in Gotokuji temple) and even an attempt on the life of Emperor Hirohito in 1932.
Japansophy’s top tips!
Have a picnic: In fine weather, grab yourself an o-bento from a convenience store and have a picnic on the lawns of the Imperial Palace East Garden. It's a popular spot for an al fresco lunch. Just remember, you are no allowed to erect a tent or sunshades and music is prohibited.
Exploration tip: Wear comfortable shoes! The grounds are vast, and you'll be doing a lot of walking. There's very little shade in the summer, so make sure to top up on the sunscreen or do as the locals do and carry a parasol!
Up the pace: The Imperial Palace grounds, particularly around the moat, are a popular jogging route. The 5km course circumnavigates the palace, with joggers asked to run in a counter-clockwise direction to minimise congestion.
Facilities
Eating & drinking: There are no restaurants inside the East Garden, but you can find vending machines and convenience stores nearby.
Toilets: There are public restrooms available throughout the East Garden.
Baby-changing facilities: These are available at various locations within the East Garden.
Other attractions nearby
Tokyo Station: A short walk from the palace, Tokyo Station is a major transportation hub with incredible shopping and dining options. Stop in for lunch in Ramen Street or snap up some souvenirs in Character Street.
Ginza: This upscale shopping district is known for its luxury boutiques and department stores.
Chidorigafuchi: Technically part of the palace grounds, this section of the moat is lined with cherry blossom trees, making it a sakura mecca in late March, and has a boating lake with views of Tokyo Tower.
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