Nijō Castle
Castle · Nakagyō, Kyoto

Nijō Castle

Photo: Wikimedia Commons · Public domain · Wikimedia Commons

The Kyoto residence of the Tokugawa shoguns, built in the early 1600s. Its Ninomaru Palace keeps painted screens and "nightingale floors" that squeak underfoot to warn of intruders. Moats, stone walls and gardens surround the palace grounds.

On day 4 of Kyoto in 5 days

Good to know

Time to spend
1.5–2 hours
Tickets
Paid entry. Palace shut Tuesdays in Jan, Jul, Aug, Dec and Dec 26–Jan 3
Best time
Morning; spring for cherry blossom
Getting there
Nijojo-mae Station (Tozai subway line), right outside

Itineraries with Nijō Castle

Day 4 of Kyoto in 5 days

Northern temples and central Kyoto

How Nijō Castle fits into a day.
  1. 9:00Kinkaku-jiKita
  2. 10:30Ryōan-ji rock gardenUkyō
  3. 13:30Nijō CastleNakagyō
  4. 16:00Nishiki MarketNakagyō
See all 5 days
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Nijō Castle questions

What days is Nijō Castle closed?

The Ninomaru Palace closes on Tuesdays in January, July, August and December (next day if a holiday), and Dec 26–Jan 3.

Why do the floors squeak at Nijō Castle?

The "nightingale floors" are built so metal fittings rub when walked on, making a chirping sound.

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