Imperial Palace
Monument · Chiyoda, Tokyo

Imperial Palace

Photo: Kakidai · CC BY-SA 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons

It occupies the grounds of the former Edo Castle. The East Gardens are open to the public and contain moats, stone walls and historic gates. Palace tours inside the inner grounds require advance reservation.

On day 1 of Tokyo in a day

Good to know

Tickets
East Gardens are free. Palace tours require advance reservation.
Time needed
Two hours for the East Gardens and outer areas.
Best time
Weekday mornings to avoid crowds.
Getting there
Five minute walk from Otemachi Station.

Itineraries with Imperial Palace

Day 1 of Tokyo in a day

Harajuku to Shinjuku

How Imperial Palace fits into a day.
  1. 9:00Meiji Shrine (Meiji Jingu)Harajuku
  2. 11:30Imperial Palace East GardensChiyoda
  3. 14:00Senso-ji and Nakamise Shopping StreetAsakusa
  4. 16:30Tokyo SkytreeOshiage
  5. 19:30Shinjuku neon evening walkShinjuku
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Imperial Palace questions

Can visitors enter the Imperial Palace?

The East Gardens are open daily. The inner palace is accessible only on guided tours booked in advance.

Is there an entry fee for the Imperial Palace?

Entry to the East Gardens is free. Palace tours are also free but limited.

When is the best time to visit the Imperial Palace?

Spring cherry blossom season draws large crowds. Weekdays offer quieter visits year round.

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