Kyoto Imperial Palace

Kyoto Imperial Palace (京都御所, Kyōto Gosho) was the official residence of Japan's Imperial Family for centuries, until 1868, when the capital and the emperor moved to Tokyo during the Meiji Restoration. Located within the spacious Kyoto Imperial Park (Kyoto Gyoen), the palace stands alongside other significant structures such as the Sento Imperial Palace and Omiya Palace. The current palace complex was reconstructed in 1855 after multiple fires and relocations throughout its history. Enclosed by long earthen walls and large wooden gates, the compound features several ceremonial halls, residential buildings, and beautifully maintained inner gardens that reflect the refined architecture of the Heian and Edo periods. While visitors cannot enter the palace buildings themselves, the grounds are open to the public, allowing guests to walk around and admire the exteriors and surrounding gardens.

Kyoto Imperial Park offers much more than just the palace. Scattered throughout its 65-hectare grounds are various historical landmarks, including the Kaninnomiya Residence, once home to a branch of the imperial family, and a small replica of Miyajima’s famous Itsukushima Shrine. The park’s wide gravel paths, open lawns, and shaded groves make it a peaceful retreat for both locals and tourists year-round. In spring, the area around Konoe Pond becomes especially popular, as the weeping cherry trees (shidarezakura) bloom spectacularly from late March to mid-April, offering one of Kyoto’s most picturesque hanami spots.