basic information

The current Imperial Palace (Kokyo) is located on the former site of Edo Castle, a large park area surrounded by moats and massive stone walls in the center of Tokyo, a short walk from Tokyo station. It is the residence of Japan's Imperial Family.

Edo Castle used to be the seat of the Tokugawa shogun who ruled Japan from 1603 until 1867. In 1868, the shogunate was overthrown, and the country's capital and Imperial Residence were moved from Kyoto to Tokyo. In 1888 construction of a new Imperial Palace was completed. The palace was once destroyed during World War Two, and rebuilt in the same style, afterwards.

From Kokyo Gaien, the large plaza in front of the Imperial Palace, visitors can view the Nijubashi, two bridges that form an entrance to the inner palace grounds. The stone bridge in front is called Meganebashi (Eyeglass Bridge) for its looks. The bridge in the back was formerly a wooden bridge with two levels, from which the name Nijubashi (Double Bridge) is derived.

The palace buildings and inner gardens are not open to the public. Only on January 2 (New Year's Greeting) and December 23 (Emperor's Birthday), visitors are able to enter the inner palace grounds and see the members of the Imperial Family, who make several public appearances on a balcony.

During the rest of the year, guided tours of the palace are offered in Japanese, with an English pamphlet and audio guide provided. Tours must be reserved in advance at the Imperial Household Agency. Reservations over the internet are possible (see links below).

The Imperial Palace East Gardens are open to the public throughout the year except on Mondays, Fridays and special occasions. Please visit the East Gardens information page for more information.

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how to get there

Imperial Palace is a 5-10 minute walk from Tokyo Station.

Orientation in Tokyo

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hotels & ryokan

Sakura Hostel Perfect for budget travelers and backpackers! Largest hostel in Tokyo. Friendly staff, cozy rooms, 24-hour internet lounge. Aizuya-inn Free internet, hot drinks, friendly foreign staff, and a warm welcome are what you will find at this Tokyo inn. Oak Hotel Budget hostel & hotel in the heart of Tokyo. Group booking, ISIC discount accepted. Shinjuku Apartment Free internet, furnished/traditional Japanese. 1 week 25,000yen, (6 tatami mat/private room) monthly/yearly discounts available. Khaosan Tokyo Guest House 2000yen/night with 24hour Free internet! Just 1-min from Asakusa station with great riverside view from the rooftop. Retreat Hamamatsucho A very clean, modern hotel. 4 min from JR Hamamatsucho Station. Free small breakfast. LAN connection and satellite TV. Park Hotel Tokyo Found in Shiodome, Tokyo, a member of Design Hotels. Extraordinary service with stunning view of Tokyo Tower. Shiba Park Hotel International tourist friendly hotel in Hamamatsucho. Easy access to major districts such as Ginza, Tokyo Tower and Zojoji Temple. Serviced Apartments Azabu Court Affordable daily weekly monthly extended stay apartments conveniently located in Azabu Hiroo Roppongi district. Hotel Villa Fontaine Stylish and reasonable hotels in 14 prime locations in the heart of the Tokyo Metropolitan Area and Osaka. Sakura Hotel Ikebukuro Hotel with comfort. Single rooms 6800 yen, doubles from 9000 yen. 4 minutes from Tokyo's second largest station Ikebukuro.

package tours

Atlas Japan Tour Customized tours emphasizing cultural experiences and communication to find real Japan. Education and exchange program available.

english links