What other travelers are saying about Tokyo Imperial Palace
The Imperial Palace in Tokyo offers a free guided tour that lasts about an hour. The experience starts with tourists gathering in an air-conditioned hall, where everyone is divided into groups by language — Japanese, English, French, Korean, and Chinese. The tour itself is focused on walking through the palace grounds (about 60 minutes of walking total), with explanations from the guide.
It’s important to note that there is no indoor access; the tour only covers the outdoor areas of the palace. Still, the grounds are impressive and the guided explanations give good context to the history and significance of the Imperial Palace. A pleasant and worthwhile experience, especially considering that it’s completely free.
This is a great location to learn about the culture and history of Japan. The actual palace was closed, hence the four stars but the gardens surrounding it were very pretty. It has large open spaces with some very great information regarding the use of the certain buildings. Definitely recommend going to see some cool structures.
I had very nice time during the visit of Imperial Palace. We took a guide which was a good move and I highly recommend you to do it as well. That way you will be able to hear interesting stories about the history and to actually spot the places you would not normally pay attention to. We were not able to go to the area of the main building as that was closed.
The Imperial Palace is a beautiful and historic spot in Tokyo. The grounds are incredibly peaceful, with picturesque moats and walls surrounding the serene gardens. It’s a great place to take a relaxing walk and escape the city’s busy pace. It’s a must-visit for a dose of history and natural beauty.
Visiting the Imperial Palace in Tokyo is a memorable experience, but there are a few things to keep in mind:
A passport is required for entry.
Tours are strictly guided, with no independent exploring. The Imperial Police maintain close supervision.
Shade is limited, so an umbrella is essential in sunny or rainy weather.
Expect 45 minutes to an hour of walking, sometimes on mild inclines
The general public is not allowed direct access inside the main buildings of the Imperial Palace. However, visitors can join guided tours that allow access to specific parts of the palace grounds but not the private residences.
Absolutely. The Imperial Palace offers a unique blend of historical significance, architectural beauty, and serene gardens, making it a worthwhile visit for those interested in Japanese culture and history.
Around the Imperial Palace, visitors can explore the East Gardens, take a guided tour of the palace grounds, visit nearby museums such as the National Museum of Modern Art, or enjoy a stroll around the Chidorigafuchi Moat, especially beautiful during cherry blossom season.
The current Imperial Palace was constructed in the 1960s, replacing earlier structures that had been destroyed during World War II. The site itself has been the location of a castle since the 15th century and became the imperial residence after the capital was moved to Tokyo in 1868.
There are numerous dining options near the Imperial Palace, ranging from casual cafes to upscale restaurants. The Marunouchi and Otemachi areas, in particular, offer a variety of Japanese and international cuisine. For a unique experience, consider trying one of the restaurants with views of the palace grounds or the surrounding gardens.
