I very much enjoyed this world heritage site. Lots of history and a look into the Japanese past. Definitely take the guided tour. Our guide was very knowledgeable and experienced. There are numerous gardens and easy walking trails. It took us about 3 hours, including the 1 hour guided tour to see everything. There is also a small café for drinks and snacks.
Beautiful, serene, and historic. Excellent first stop for us for the day. Going inside the castle is extra but worth it I feel (you must remove your shoes). The gardens were beautiful even on a dreary day. They don’t over do it with trying to sell you stuff. You can spend a lot of time or a short time here. Beautiful!
It was definitely a must see for our opinion but the entrance fee is a bit much I guess. It deviates you from the routes you need to spare a suitable time. We visited here after kinkaku-ji temple. You can reach here with bus. We enjoyed being here but if you do not have enough time in city you can pass here I guess.
If you are interested in the history of the Shogun's this is a great place to visit. If not then the gardens are worth a stroll around but the main building costs extra to enter. The history is reading and looking at pictures and architecture, so not great for kids unless they really like that sort of thing. The gardens are beautifully maintained and there is a vending machine to buy food for the the carp in the moat.
Nijō Castle is a fascinating place full of history, beauty, and culture. Walking through its elegant wooden halls and hearing the famous “nightingale floors” is an unforgettable experience. The interiors showcase incredible craftsmanship, with beautifully painted sliding doors and traditional architecture that reflect the grandeur of the shogun era.
The surrounding gardens are equally impressive—peaceful, perfectly maintained, and offering wonderful seasonal views, whether it’s cherry blossoms in spring or colorful leaves in autumn. Strolling through the grounds feels like stepping back in time while still enjoying a serene atmosphere.
Nijō Castle is not only a UNESCO World Heritage site but also one of Kyoto’s true treasures. It’s a must-visit for anyone interested in Japanese history, architecture, or simply looking for a beautiful and enriching experience.
This castle is one of Japan's most celebrated, distinguished by its significant historical value, pivotal role in the nation's narrative, strategic location within a notable city, and recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Nijo Castle, a gem in the city that captivates with its majestic white walls, towering east gate, and year-round beauty, clearly reflects the grandeur of its historical inhabitants.
Tokugawa shogunate
The Palace, a National Treasure, features six interconnected buildings exemplifying the shoin-zukuri architectural style, refined in the early Edo period (1603–1867), and stands as the sole remaining example of a fortified palace complex.
Tours guided by official guides of Nijo Castle, available in both Japanese and English and lasting about 60 minutes, are offered daily at 10:00 AM and 12:00 PM, except on days when the castle or palace is closed, typically ranging in duration from an hour to an hour and a half.
