Tokyo's Imperial Garden, also known as the Imperial Palace East Gardens, is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Japan's capital. The garden offers a peaceful escape from the city's busy streets and features historical sites, seasonal flowers, and stunning landscapes.
If you love nature, history, or photography, this guide will help you discover the best spots in the Imperial Garden to visit, taste, and enjoy.
The entrance to the East Imperial garden of Tokyo Imperial Palace.
Before you enter the Imperial Garden, you will pass through Otemon Gate, the main entrance. This large wooden and stone gate was once an important part of Edo Castle's defense. It is one of the few remaining structures from the castle’s past and represents Japan’s samurai history.
Take a moment to look at the thick stone walls and tall wooden doors, which have stood strong for hundreds of years. This entrance leads to the East Gardens, a quiet and beautiful space where you can explore history and nature together.
Best Time to Visit:
Morning (before 10 AM): Fewer people and a peaceful atmosphere.
Late afternoon: Soft lighting makes it a great time for photography.
The Ninomaru Garden is a peaceful and beautifully designed Japanese-style garden inside the Imperial Gardens. It was originally part of Edo Castle’s outer gardens and has been carefully maintained over the centuries. The garden features a serene pond, stone pathways, and elegantly arranged plants that change with the seasons.
What to See in Ninomaru Garden:
Scenic Pond: The central pond reflects the surrounding trees and sky, creating a calming atmosphere.
Stone Bridges: Small, curved bridges connect different parts of the garden and offer a traditional aesthetic.
Seasonal Beauty: In spring, cherry blossoms add soft pink hues to the garden, while in autumn, the maple trees turn bright shades of red and orange.
Well-kept Bonsai Trees: You can find beautifully pruned bonsai trees, showcasing Japan’s art of gardening.
The Imperial Garden was once home to Edo Castle, a grand fortress that served as the residence of the Tokugawa shoguns for over 260 years. Although the original structures are gone, you can still see stone foundations, moats, and the remains of castle towers, offering a glimpse into Japan’s feudal past.
Key Spots to Visit:
Honmaru Ruins: This was the central area of Edo Castle, where the main keep once stood. Today, it provides a scenic spot with views of modern Tokyo, blending history with the present.
Stone Walls and Gates: Walking around the garden, you’ll notice impressive stone walls and gates that have stood the test of time, showcasing the craftsmanship of the Edo period.
Moats and Bridges: Some of the castle’s original moats remain, adding to the tranquil atmosphere of the garden.
Located inside the Imperial Gardens, the Museum of the Imperial Collections (Sannomaru Shozokan) is a hidden cultural gem showcasing priceless artworks and treasures from the Imperial Family’s private collection.
The museum offers a rare chance to see historic paintings, calligraphy, ceramics, textiles, and traditional crafts that have been carefully preserved over centuries.
What to See in the Museum:
Beautiful works by famous artists from the Edo and Meiji periods.
Handwritten letters and poetry from past emperors and noble families.
Delicate tea sets, decorative bowls, and historic pottery.
Entry & Visiting Information:
Entry Fee: Free
Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM (varies by season)
If you need a peaceful place to relax, visit the East Garden Lawn. This large, open green space is perfect for taking a break from sightseeing. You can stretch out on the soft grass, enjoy the fresh air, or have a quiet picnic surrounded by nature.
Why Visit the East Garden Lawn?
Perfect for Picnics: Bring a small mat and some delicious snacks to enjoy a meal outdoors.
Great for Relaxing: Whether you're reading a book, meditation, or simply resting, this is a great spot to unwind.
Shaded Areas Available: There are plenty of trees offering cool shade, making it comfortable even on warm days.
Scenic Views: The lawn is surrounded by seasonal plants, adding to the beautiful scenery.
Tip: Visit in the morning or late afternoon for the best weather and a quieter experience.
Momijiyama – The Maple Tree Hill
Momijiyama, meaning Maple Tree Hill, is one of the most picturesque spots in the Imperial Garden. As the name suggests, it is filled with beautiful maple trees that turn vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow during autumn, creating a breathtaking natural display.
Why Visit Momijiyama?
Spectacular Fall Foliage: The area is most beautiful in autumn (October–November), when the maple leaves change color, offering visitors a stunning view.
Tranquil Atmosphere: This quiet area provides a peaceful setting, ideal for relaxing and enjoying nature.
Great for Photography: The colorful trees make a perfect background for pictures, whether you’re a professional photographer or just taking travel photos.
Seasonal Beauty: Even in other seasons, the lush greenery and unique tree formations make this a pleasant place to explore.
For a peaceful and immersive nature walk, visit the Bamboo Grove inside the Imperial Gardens. This serene path is lined with tall, swaying bamboo stalks, creating a cool and refreshing atmosphere even on warm days.
Although the grove is not as famous as Kyoto’s Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, it offers a quieter, more intimate experience where visitors can take a break from the bustling city.
Best Time to Visit:
Early Morning (before 10 AM): Enjoy the grove in peaceful solitude with soft sunlight.
Late Afternoon: Capture the golden hour light filtering through the bamboo.
Tips for Enjoying the Bamboo Grove:
Walk slowly and listen to the gentle sounds of nature.
Take deep breaths—the fresh bamboo-scented air is refreshing.
Visit on a weekday for a more private and quiet experience.
Bring a camera or smartphone to capture the unique atmosphere.
Spring is the most magical season to visit the Imperial Garden because of the breathtaking cherry blossoms. As the sakura (cherry) trees bloom, the garden transforms into a picturesque scene filled with delicate pink and white petals.
Visitors from all over the world come to enjoy this seasonal wonder, making it a highlight of the year.
Best Spots for Cherry Blossom Viewing:
Ninomaru Garden: This beautifully landscaped garden offers some of the best views of blooming cherry trees reflected in the pond.
Near the Honmaru Ruins: The historical remains of Edo Castle provide a stunning contrast to the delicate pink blossoms.
Along the East Garden Walking Paths: Stroll under the canopy of cherry blossoms while enjoying the peaceful atmosphere of the garden.
Tea House (Suwa no Chaya)
Suwa no Chaya
Inside the Imperial Garden, you’ll find a charming and historic tea house called Suwa no Chaya. This traditional tea house, originally used by samurai and nobles, is a wonderful place to experience Japan’s tea culture and relax in a peaceful setting.
Why Visit Suwa no Chaya?
The tea house features wooden architecture and a thatched roof, maintaining the look of traditional tea houses from centuries ago.
It was once a place where high-ranking officials practiced the Japanese tea ceremony.
Located within the garden, it offers a tranquil space perfect for taking a break from walking.
What to Try:
A cup of matcha (green tea) served with a traditional Japanese sweet such as wagashi (a small, beautifully crafted dessert).
Seasonal tea offerings may also be available, giving visitors a taste of Japan’s rich tea traditions.
While most visitors come to the Imperial Garden in spring for the cherry blossoms, the Plum Grove offers an equally breathtaking experience in February.
The plum trees, known as ume in Japanese, bloom earlier than cherry blossoms and fill the air with a sweet, rich fragrance. The delicate pink, white, and red blossoms create a stunning scene that feels like stepping into a classic Japanese painting.
Best Time to Visit:
Mid-February to Early March – This is when the plum trees reach full bloom, creating a beautiful sight.
Early Morning or Late Afternoon – Enjoy soft natural light for photography and a quieter atmosphere.
How to Get to the Imperial Garden
The Imperial Garden is located in central Tokyo and is easy to access.
Nearest Stations:
Otemachi Station (Tokyo Metro) – 5-minute walk
Tokyo Station (JR Lines) – 10-minute walk
Opening Hours:
Open daily, except on Mondays and Fridays
9:00 AM to 4:30 PM (varies by season)
Entry Fee: Free
Final Thoughts: A Must-Visit Garden in Tokyo
Tokyo’s Imperial Garden is a wonderful place to visit. You can learn about history, enjoy nature, and take beautiful photos. Whether you’re walking through the East Gardens, seeing the cherry blossoms at Chidorigafuchi Moat, or trying delicious food at Tokyo Station, there’s something for everyone.
So, start planning your trip to Tokyo’s Imperial Garden today. It’s a peaceful and beautiful place that you’ll never forget. Enjoy your visit!
Frequently Asked Questions
The gardens of the Imperial Palace are special because they mix nature and history. The East Gardens have old ruins from Edo Castle, like stone walls and guardhouses, along with beautiful plants, ponds, and walking paths. The Chidorigafuchi Moat is famous for its cherry blossoms in spring, and Kitanomaru Park is a quiet green space. These gardens are peaceful and full of history.
The royal family of Japan, including the Emperor, lives in the Imperial Palace (Kokyo) in Tokyo. The palace is in the Chiyoda district and is surrounded by moats and walls. The inner palace is private, but visitors can explore the gardens and join guided tours of some areas.
Yes, you can visit the Imperial Gardens. The East Gardens are open to the public year-round and are free. They have historical ruins, plants, and walking paths. Other areas, like Chidorigafuchi Moat and Kitanomaru Park, are also open for cherry blossom viewing and walks. The inner palace is private but can be seen on guided tours.
Yes, the East Gardens are free to enter. Some areas, like guided tours of the palace grounds, are also free but need reservations. Activities like renting a rowboat at Chidorigafuchi Moat or visiting nearby museums may cost extra.
