Visiting Imperial Palace: what 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.
Tokyo itineraries with Imperial Palace
Imperial Palace is on day 1
Day 1 of Tokyo in a day
Harajuku to Shinjuku
How Imperial Palace fits into a day.- 9:00Meiji Shrine (Meiji Jingu)Harajuku
- 11:30Imperial Palace East GardensChiyoda
- 14:00Senso-ji and Nakamise Shopping StreetAsakusa
- 16:30Tokyo SkytreeOshiage
- 19:30Shinjuku neon evening walkShinjuku
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Imperial Palace FAQs
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.
