Travel Tips

Edo Castle, from which the Tokugawa shogunate ruled Japan, once occupied this location. The Imperial Family moved from Kyoto to take up residence in Tokyo in the 19th century. The palace built in 1888 was destroyed by Allied bombing during the Second World War, and the present complex was completed in 1968. Visitors from all over Japan enjoy posing for souvenir photographs against the backdrop of Nijubashi Bridge and the old guard tower. The bridge itself is open to the public on only two days each year: Jan 2 and Dec 23 (the Emperor's birthday), when the Imperial Family makes an appearance on a palace balcony. The road beside the moat that circles the palace grounds is a popular jogging route.

The East Garden is one part of the grounds that is open to the public. You can view what's left of the central fortress of Edo Castle, and there's a small museum of articles related to the Imperial Family. The east Garden is open 9:00-16:30.(16:00 from Nov to Feb). Last entry 30 min before closing time. Subway Otemachi Stn or Takebashi Stn. Closed Mon, Fri and on special occasions. Admission free. Every weekday (Mon-Fri) there is a free guided tour around part of the palace grounds and the East Garden at 10:00 and at 13:30. Reserve by telephone, and take your passport to the Imperial Household Agency by the day before.