Tokyo Imperial Palace Tours

Photo provided by JNTO
Photo provided by JNTO
Photo provided by JNTO
Photo provided by JNTO
Photo provided by JNTO


This site was first a shogun residence, then the home for Japan’s emperor. Destroyed in World War II, it was reconstructed to its original splendor.

Tokyo Imperial Palace remains the primary residence of Japan’s Imperial Family. Much like residences for heads of state around the world, the palace buildings and inner gardens are not open to the public. However, twice a year (December 23 and January 2), you can enter the inner palace gardens to see the Imperial Family waving from a balcony.

The ancient name for Tokyo was Edo. From the 1600s to 1867, shoguns ruling Edo occupied this site in central Tokyo, living in Edo Castle. In 1868, when the shogunate was displaced, Japan moved its capital from Kyoto to Tokyo and occupied the Edo Castle site. After fire destroyed much of the complex, they built a new imperial palace in 1888.

Take note of the stone walls and towers and the Nijubashi bridges crossing the moat from outer to inner palace grounds. They are reminiscent of structures on the site hundreds of years ago when moats and ramparts served a critical protective function.

To the east of the residence is the Imperial Palace East Garden, which is open to the public daily, except Mondays and Fridays. The venue offers peaceful green spaces and ponds with a landscaped Japanese garden. Relics from early castle walls are visible. Nearby are the National Museum of Modern Art Tokyo, the MOMAT Kogeikan Crafts Gallery and the Science Museum.  

Just north of the palace is Kitanomaru Park, a public area that is the site of Nippon Budokan Hall. The Budokan is a world famous martial arts, wrestling and music performance center that has hosted international stars from The Beatles to Taylor Swift. The Yasukuni Shrine is a short walk northwest.

The palace is located in the center of Tokyo on a 1.3-square mile (3.4-square kilometer) site. It is just a few minutes from Tokyo station. Otemachi station is the closest to the East Garden and Kudanshita is closest to Budokan.

Plan a trip to see Tokyo Imperial Palace

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Reviews of Tokyo Imperial Palace

4.3
Top Destination
5 - Excellent
684
5 - Excellent 47%
4 - Good
573
4 - Good 39%
3 - Okay
172
3 - Okay 12%
2 - Disappointing
20
2 - Disappointing 1%
1 - Terrible
10
1 - Terrible 1%

3/5 - Okay

Verified traveler

The line was super long so we gave up.

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveler

The Imperial palace has limited hours and will close for government business so check the schedule on the website before making plans. Even if the Imperial palace is closed the surrounding Imperial gardens are well worth a visit to explore.

3/5 - Okay

Xin

Get there early as imperial palace closes after 2!

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveler

It's about a 5K trip around the palace area. Lots of runners and walkers around - wear comfortable shoes.

2/5 - Disappointing

Chloe

Lots of bugs - closed due to repairs - people outside try to get you to "donate" to false programs.

3/5 - Okay

Verified traveler

Lot of walking and hanging about with little interest. Only royal palace from a distance. Maybe better at other times of year.

Popular places to visit


Best Lodging Options Near Tokyo Imperial Palace

Hotel Metropolitan Edmont Tokyo

Hotel Metropolitan Edmont Tokyo

4 out of 5
3-10-8 Iidabashi, Chiyoda Ku, Tokyo, Tokyo-to
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Hotel Monterey Hanzomon

Hotel Monterey Hanzomon

3.5 out of 5
23-1 Ichiban-cho, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, Tokyo-to
Hotel Monterey Hanzomon
The Capitol Hotel Tokyu

The Capitol Hotel Tokyu

5 out of 5
2-10-3 Nagata-cho, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, Tokyo-to
The Capitol Hotel Tokyu
Hotel Niwa Tokyo

Hotel Niwa Tokyo

4 out of 5
1-1-16 Kandamisaki-cho, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, Tokyo
Hotel Niwa Tokyo
The Peninsula Tokyo

The Peninsula Tokyo

5 out of 5
1-8-1 Yuraku-cho, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, Tokyo-to
The Peninsula Tokyo
APA Hotel PRIDE Akasaka Kokkaigijidomae

APA Hotel PRIDE Akasaka Kokkaigijidomae

3 out of 5
2-10-2 Nagatacho, Tokyo, Tokyo
APA Hotel PRIDE Akasaka Kokkaigijidomae
Ascott Marunouchi Tokyo

Ascott Marunouchi Tokyo

5 out of 5
1-1-1 Otemachi, Chiyodaku, Tokyo
Ascott Marunouchi Tokyo
Imperial Hotel, Tokyo

Imperial Hotel, Tokyo

5 out of 5
1-1-1 Uchisaiwaicho Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, Tokyo-to
Imperial Hotel, Tokyo
The Kitano Hotel Tokyo

The Kitano Hotel Tokyo

4.5 out of 5
2-16-15 Hirakawa-cho, Tokyo, Tokyo
The Kitano Hotel Tokyo
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Tokyo Imperial Palace

When visiting the Tokyo Imperial Palace, you'll find a variety of engaging activities nearby. Explore afternoon tours that offer insights into the palace's history, participate in a traditional tea ceremony for a cultural experience, and indulge in some shopping in the upscale Ginza district. With options for art and theater also available, there's something for everyone to enjoy during your visit to this historic site.

Shopping

For unique gifts and souvenirs, visit Tsukiji Outer Market, just 3.2km away, offering vibrant local flavors. Ginza Six and Matsuya Ginza, both 1.6km away, provide a mix of luxury shopping and entertainment vibes, perfect for family outings and city exploration.

Recreation

At Tokyo Dome, immerse yourself in thrilling sports activities that energize your spirit. For a tranquil escape, visit Okubo Park, where serene nature invites relaxation and mindfulness. Lastly, enjoy live performances at Zepp Tokyo, providing an entertaining atmosphere to unwind and enjoy the vibrant culture of Tokyo.

Adventure

Experience indoor skiing at Snova Mizonokuchi, located 16.1km from the palace, perfect for families and sports enthusiasts. For a scenic outdoor adventure, take a stroll along the Chidorigafuchi Walking Path, 805m away, or explore the natural beauty along the Koshu Highway, 1.6km from the palace.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife near Tokyo Imperial Palace. Enjoy a captivating performance at the Kabuki-za Theatre or the Tokyo Takarazuka Theatre, both just 1.6km away, offering romance and culture. For a family-friendly film, catch a show at Cineswitch Ginza, also a mile from the palace.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Tokyo Imperial Palace

While visiting the Tokyo Imperial Palace, explore nearby shrines, urban parks, and art museums that offer a rich cultural experience for families and city enthusiasts alike. Key attractions include the stunning palace grounds and the iconic Tower Tokyo in central Tokyo, providing a perfect blend of history and modernity. Don't miss the chance to immerse yourself in Japan's imperial legacy during your trip.

  • Tokyo Tower: Standing at 1,092 feet, Tokyo Tower offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city skyline. This iconic landmark, inspired by the Eiffel Tower, features a vibrant red and white design, symbolizing Japan's post-war rebirth. Experience its observation decks for stunning sunsets and city lights.
  • Waseda University: A prestigious institution steeped in history, Waseda University showcases impressive architecture and lush campus grounds. This cultural hub is known for its vibrant student life and numerous museums, making it a perfect spot to immerse yourself in Japan's academic heritage.
  • Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden: A tranquil escape in the heart of Tokyo, this expansive garden features traditional Japanese landscapes, beautiful cherry blossoms, and serene ponds. Ideal for families and picnickers, it offers a peaceful retreat from the city's hustle and bustle.

Best time to go to Tokyo Imperial Palace

The best time to visit Tokyo Imperial Palace can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Tokyo Imperial Palace falls in August, when visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature around Tokyo Imperial Palace falls in January, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January41.9°F (5.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
February43.3°F (6.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
March50.2°F (10.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
April57.7°F (14.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
May66.6°F (19.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
June72.0°F (22.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
July79.3°F (26.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
August81.9°F (27.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
September75.7°F (24.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly Low
October66.0°F (18.9°C)Moderate RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
November57.0°F (13.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
December46.9°F (8.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Tokyo Imperial Palace

To save money when visiting the Tokyo Imperial Palace, consider traveling during the off-peak months of January, February, or September for lower hotel rates. Booking your stay about a month in advance can help secure better deals, particularly on Tuesdays, which are the cheapest days. Use Expedia to compare room rates and find last-minute discounts. Additionally, look for package deals that combine flights, accommodations, and activities to maximize savings. Walking is a budget-friendly way to explore the surrounding area and enjoy free attractions.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Tokyo Imperial Palace are January to February and September, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to March to April and December, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: Book your hotel around Tokyo Imperial Palace about 1 month out to secure some of the cheapest prices. If you're the spontaneous type, Expedia's last minute deals and discounts are indicated via the green label below the price.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Tokyo Imperial Palace is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around Tokyo Imperial Palace is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia’s search tool to narrow down your options based on your budget, preferred location, and the type of hotel you desire. To find the best prices and deals available, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay near the Tokyo Imperial Palace with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.

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