The Imperial Palace is just a ten-minute walk from Tokyo Station.





Tokyo Imperial Palace
The Imperial Palace (皇居, Kōkyo) is a historically rich and architecturally striking landmark located in the heart of Tokyo, just a short walk from Tokyo Station. It occupies the former site of Edo Castle, the seat of power for the Tokugawa shogunate during the Edo Period (1603–1868). When the Meiji Restoration transferred the capital from Kyoto to Tokyo in 1868, the Imperial Family relocated to the new capital. A modern palace was completed in 1888, though it was later destroyed during World War II air raids and rebuilt in a contemporary style in 1968. Despite its modern reconstruction, the palace remains deeply rooted in history and continues to serve as the official residence of Japan’s Emperor and Imperial Family, surrounded by wide moats, imposing stone walls, and carefully preserved gates.
While the inner palace grounds are generally closed to the public, visitors can explore the scenic outer grounds, which include notable landmarks such as Nijūbashi—a picturesque double-arched bridge that has become a symbol of the palace. The Imperial East Gardens, formerly part of the inner Edo Castle compound, are open year-round and offer a serene retreat filled with manicured landscapes, historic ruins, and seasonal flowers. On special occasions like New Year’s Day (January 2) and the Emperor’s Birthday (February 23), the public is granted rare access to the inner grounds and can see members of the Imperial Family during their appearances. For those seeking historical insight, free guided tours offered by the Imperial Household Agency provide valuable context on the palace’s architecture, legacy, and cultural importance—making the Imperial Palace a must-visit for anyone interested in Japan’s imperial history.
Hours and Fees
- Opening hours
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Tours are held daily between 10:00 and 13:30 (reservations required; see the resources section)
- Closed
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Mondays, Sundays and national holidays
- Entrance fee
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Free
Getting there
Resources
Nearby
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Imperial Palace East Gardens — 15-minute walk
Historic gardens on Edo Castle grounds
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Jimbocho Book Town — 20-minute walk
Tokyo’s hub for bookstores and cafes
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Marunouchi Building (Marubiru) — 20-minute walk
Shopping, dining, city views
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Shin Marunouchi Building (Shin Marubiru) — 20-minute walk
Iconic shopping, dining, and views
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Kitte Marunouchi — 20-minute walk
Rooftop garden with Tokyo Station views
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Marunouchi Oazo — 20-minute walk
Shopping, dining, hotel, bookstore
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Nakadori Avenue — 20-minute walk
Trendy shopping and dining street
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Marunouchi Brick Square — 20-minute walk
Stylish shopping and dining destination
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Mitsubishi Ichigokan Museum — 20-minute walk
Historic building showcasing Western art
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Marunouchi — 25-minute walk
Business hub, historic Tokyo Station, redevelopment
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Yurakucho — 25-minute walk
Gado-shita restaurants and relaxed atmosphere
5.0 ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ -
Tokyo Building Tokia — 25-minute walk
Trendy dining and after-work entertainment
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Tokyo International Forum — 25-minute walk
Iconic architectural venue for events
Reviews
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5/5 - Excellent
The Tokyo Imperial Palace is a beautiful and peaceful retreat in the heart of the city. The East Gardens are stunning, with well-maintained landscapes, tranquil ponds, and historic ruins. It’s a great spot for a relaxing stroll, away from the city's hustle and bustle.
Though the palace itself isn’t open to the public, the surrounding areas and gardens offer plenty to explore. I really enjoyed the serene atmosphere and learning about the history of the Imperial family. If you're in Tokyo, it’s definitely worth a visit for its beauty and calm ambiance.4 months ago — by Wesley