basic information

Kyoto Imperial Palace (Kyoto Gosho) used to be the residence of Japan's Imperial Family until 1868, when the emperor and capital were moved from Kyoto to Tokyo. It is located in the spacious Kyoto Imperial Park.

The palace burnt down and was moved around the city several times over the centuries. The present reconstruction dates from 1855. The palace complex is enclosed by a long wall and consists of several gates, halls and gardens. The enthronement ceremonies of Emperors Taisho and Showa were still held in the palace's main hall, but the present Emperor's ceremony took place at the Tokyo Imperial Palace.

The palace can be visited only on guided tours held by the Imperial Household Agency. In order to join a tour, you need to apply for permission in advance with your passport at the agency's office in the Kyoto Imperial Park. Reservations over the internet are also possible (see links below).

English tours are currently held twice a day on weekdays and on some Saturdays. No tours are held on Sundays and national holidays. Check with the agency for an up to date schedule.

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how to get there

Kyoto Imperial Palace can be reached in about 10 minutes from Kyoto Station by the Karasuma Subway Line. Get off at Marutamachi or Imadegawa Station. Imadegawa Station is closer to the agency's office.

Orientation in Kyoto

travel community

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7th of 41 most visited sights in Kyoto.
27th of 417 most visited sights nationwide.

VIDEO Kyoto - Beyond Gion Look around and explore beyond the downtown geisha districts.

hotels & ryokan

Ryokan Kinoe A comfort ryokan in Gion District. Quality services. 5 min to Gion Corner, Yasaka Jinja. Ponto-cho, Kiyomizu-dera nearby. Kyoto White Hotel From 4,150 yen per night. 3 minutes from JR Kyoto station. Tomiya Ryokan A traditional Japanese inn located 2 min walk from Kyoto Station. Close to bus terminal for all the attractions. Guest Inn Chita A small traditional inn run by a very kind staff. From 3500yen per guest. 10 min from Kyoto Station. Renewed in 2006. Gion Hatanaka A real Japanese inn in a quiet area of Gion, famous for Geisha. 15min walk to Kiyomizu-dera. 5min to Yasaka-jinja. Backpackers Hostel K's House Kyoto Voted No.1 hostel in Asia by Hostelworld customers. 9 mins walk from JR Kyoto station Bed from 2,500 yen.

tours and packages

Atlas Japan Tour Customized tours emphasizing cultural experiences and communication to find real Japan. Education and exchange program available. Kyoto Tours Various English tours of Kyoto and surroundings.

english links