Kyoto Imperial Palace

★ 4.7 (322K+ reviews) • 425K+ booked
Overview
Things to do
Restaurants
Hotels

Kyoto Imperial Palace Tickets & Tours

Kyoto Imperial Palace & Nijo Castle Small Group Guided Walking Tour
Tours • Kyoto

Kyoto Imperial Palace & Nijo Castle Small Group Guided Walking Tour

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English guided
Free cancellation
4.6 / 5
(82) • 1K+ booked
€ 56.35
Kyoto Day Tour from Kyoto or Osaka
Tours • Kyoto

Kyoto Day Tour from Kyoto or Osaka

English guided
Free cancellation
Instant confirmation
4.7 / 5
(69) • 1K+ booked
€ 165.15
Kyoto Morning Tour: Kinkaku-ji, Nijo Castle & Imperial Palace
Klook's choice
Tours • From Kyoto, Osaka

Kyoto Morning Tour: Kinkaku-ji, Nijo Castle & Imperial Palace

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English guided
Free cancellation
4.4 / 5
(52) • 1K+ booked
€ 85.49
Kyoto Hidden Gems E-Bike Tour Through Backstreets & Temples
Tours • Kyoto

Kyoto Hidden Gems E-Bike Tour Through Backstreets & Temples

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English guided
Free cancellation
5.0 / 5
(3) • 50+ booked
€ 53.25
Sale 30% off
Osaka, Kyoto, Nara, Kobe, & Awaji Island Private Car Charter Tour
Tours • From Kyoto

Osaka, Kyoto, Nara, Kobe, & Awaji Island Private Car Charter Tour

Book now for tomorrow
Hotel pick-up
Private tour
4.7 / 5
(69) • 600+ booked
€ 283.29
Kyoto Imperial Palace 2-Hour Private Historical Tour
Tours • Kyoto

Kyoto Imperial Palace 2-Hour Private Historical Tour

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English guided
Free cancellation
€ 52.79
Sale 40% off
Kyoto 10 Shrines Half-Day Small Group Cycling Tour
Klook's choice
Tours • Kyoto

Kyoto 10 Shrines Half-Day Small Group Cycling Tour

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English guided
Free cancellation
€ 64.75
Kyoto & Nara Full-Day Tour: Kinkaku-ji, Todai-ji & Nara Park
Tours • From Kyoto

Kyoto & Nara Full-Day Tour: Kinkaku-ji, Todai-ji & Nara Park

English guided
Free cancellation
Instant confirmation
4.8 / 5
(32) • 700+ booked
€ 191.05
Private Shore Excursion to Kyoto from Kobe Cruise Port
Cruises • From Kobe

Private Shore Excursion to Kyoto from Kobe Cruise Port

Private tour
Small group
English guided
4.0 / 5
(3) • 100+ booked
€ 221.59
Bicycle Adventure Experience in Kyoto
Outdoor & sports activities • Kyoto

Bicycle Adventure Experience in Kyoto

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English guided
Morning departure
4.0 / 5
(4) • 100+ booked
From
€ 274.29
Kyoto Uji Matcha Experience & Nara Private 1-Day Tour
Tours • Nara

Kyoto Uji Matcha Experience & Nara Private 1-Day Tour

Hotel pick-up
Private tour
English guided
4.7 / 5
(36) • 800+ booked
€ 331.85
Kyoto Gion Festival Guided Tour with Reserved Seats July 17, 24
Tours • Kyoto

Kyoto Gion Festival Guided Tour with Reserved Seats July 17, 24

English guided
Free cancellation
Instant confirmation
4.7 / 5
(3) • 50+ booked
€ 103.60

Where to stay in Kyoto Imperial Palace

THE JUNEI HOTEL Kyoto Imperial Palace West
Hotels • Kyoto

THE JUNEI HOTEL Kyoto Imperial Palace West

Instant confirmation
4.8 / 5
(109)
From
€ 252.64
ALA HOTEL KYOTO
Hotels • Kyoto

ALA HOTEL KYOTO

Instant confirmation
5.0 / 5
(552) • 50+ booked
From
€ 61.93
Mitsui Garden Hotel Kyoto Kawaramachi Jokyoji
Hotels • Kyoto

Mitsui Garden Hotel Kyoto Kawaramachi Jokyoji

Instant confirmation
4.8 / 5
(1.0K)
From
€ 62.97
OMO5 Kyoto Sanjo by Hoshino Resorts
Hotels • Kyoto

OMO5 Kyoto Sanjo by Hoshino Resorts

Instant confirmation
4.6 / 5
(407) • 50+ booked
From
€ 51.08
€ 53.08
Royal Twin Hotel Kyoto Hachijoguchi
Hotels • Kyoto

Royal Twin Hotel Kyoto Hachijoguchi

Instant confirmation
4.7 / 5
(746) • 50+ booked
From
€ 65.14
Mitsui Garden Hotel Kyoto Station
Hotels • Kyoto

Mitsui Garden Hotel Kyoto Station

Instant confirmation
4.9 / 5
(1.0K) • 50+ booked
From
€ 68.77
Hotel Keihan Kyoto Hachijoguchi
Hotels • Kyoto

Hotel Keihan Kyoto Hachijoguchi

Instant confirmation
4.8 / 5
(889) • 100+ booked
From
€ 34.64
Hotel Keihan Kyoto Grande
Hotels • Kyoto

Hotel Keihan Kyoto Grande

Instant confirmation
4.5 / 5
(1.0K) • 50+ booked
From
€ 38.8
HOTEL VISCHIO KYOTO
Hotels • Kyoto

HOTEL VISCHIO KYOTO

Instant confirmation
4.8 / 5
(1.6K) • 50+ booked
From
€ 81.08
SOLARIA Nishitetsu Hotel Kyoto Premier
Hotels • Kyoto

SOLARIA Nishitetsu Hotel Kyoto Premier

Instant confirmation
4.8 / 5
(1.0K) • 50+ booked
From
€ 68.24
€ 68.93
Good Nature Hotel Kyoto
Hotels • Kyoto

Good Nature Hotel Kyoto

Instant confirmation
4.8 / 5
(827) • 50+ booked
From
€ 147.15
Miyako City Kintetsu Kyoto Station
Hotels • Kyoto

Miyako City Kintetsu Kyoto Station

Instant confirmation
4.7 / 5
(1.0K) • 100+ booked
From
€ 64.6

Transport to & from Kyoto Imperial Palace

Car Rental with Driver to Kyoto Imperial Palace/ Nijo Castle/ Kinkaku-ji Customized Tour (Round Trip from Kyoto)
Car charters • Nantan (From Kyoto)

Car Rental with Driver to Kyoto Imperial Palace/ Nijo Castle/ Kinkaku-ji Customized Tour (Round Trip from Kyoto)

Book now for tomorrow
Customized itinerary
Free cancellation
4.6 / 5
(416) • 4K+ booked
€ 226.59
Sale 10% off
Sagano Romantic Train Ticket
Rail passes • Kyoto (From Sagae)

Sagano Romantic Train Ticket

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Free cancellation
Instant confirmation
4.5 / 5
(4.8K) • 200K+ booked
From
€ 4.99
Kyoto City Subway and Bus 1 Day Ticket
Rail passes • Kyoto

Kyoto City Subway and Bus 1 Day Ticket

Book now for today
Free cancellation
Instant confirmation
4.5 / 5
(143) • 20K+ booked
€ 6.89
Kyoto to Nara Express Train by Kintetsu
Rail passes • Kyoto

Kyoto to Nara Express Train by Kintetsu

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Instant confirmation
4.3 / 5
(44) • 6K+ booked
From
€ 7.20
Hieizan Free Pass (Unlimited 1-Day Rides on 6 Types of Transport)
Rail passes • Kyoto

Hieizan Free Pass (Unlimited 1-Day Rides on 6 Types of Transport)

Book now for tomorrow
Free cancellation
Instant confirmation
New Activity
€ 19.70
JR Sanyo-San'in Area Pass
Rail passes • Kyoto (From Kyoto)

JR Sanyo-San'in Area Pass

Book now for today
Instant confirmation
4.9 / 5
(2.1K) • 40K+ booked
€ 129.65
Randen Pass
Rail passes • Kyoto

Randen Pass

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Instant confirmation
4.4 / 5
(923) • 10K+ booked
From
€ 3.95
Eizan Electric Railway 1-Day Pass “Ee Kippu” & Kurama Onsen Set Ticket
Train tickets • Kyoto

Eizan Electric Railway 1-Day Pass “Ee Kippu” & Kurama Onsen Set Ticket

Book now for tomorrow
Instant confirmation
4.2 / 5
(6) • 100+ booked
From
€ 14.35
Kyoto Private City Transfers to Kyoto Station/Kyoto City(One way)
Car charters • Kyoto

Kyoto Private City Transfers to Kyoto Station/Kyoto City(One way)

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Instant confirmation
4.3 / 5
(6) • 100+ booked
€ 59.65
Retail: € 60.80
Kyoto Car Rental with Driver to Nara/Osaka/Kobe/Uji/Lake Biwa/Wakayama - English/Chinese Speaking Driver
Car charters • Kyoto

Kyoto Car Rental with Driver to Nara/Osaka/Kobe/Uji/Lake Biwa/Wakayama - English/Chinese Speaking Driver

Book now for tomorrow
Free cancellation
Instant confirmation
5.0 / 5
(5) • New Activity
€ 214.65
Sale 10% off
Kyoto car rentals | Rent a car for Fushimi Inari Taisha, Kiyomizu Temple, Golden Temple Kyoto, Osaka International Airport
Car rentals • Kyoto

Kyoto car rentals | Rent a car for Fushimi Inari Taisha, Kiyomizu Temple, Golden Temple Kyoto, Osaka International Airport

Instant confirmation
Free cancellation
E-drive
10K+ booked
From
€ 122
/day
10% off
Kyoto Departure Private Car Charter | Uji, Nara & Surrounding Areas
Car charters • Kyoto

Kyoto Departure Private Car Charter | Uji, Nara & Surrounding Areas

Book now for tomorrow
Customized itinerary
Free cancellation
4.7 / 5
(100) • 1K+ booked
€ 226.59
Sale 5% off

Restaurants near Kyoto Imperial Palace

Nanzenji Junsei Traditional Tofu Kaiseki Cuisine - Kyoto
Food & dining • Kyoto

Nanzenji Junsei Traditional Tofu Kaiseki Cuisine - Kyoto

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Free cancellation
Instant confirmation
4.5 / 5
(263) • 9K+ booked
€ 24.70
Higashiyama Traditional Japanese tofu cuisine Souhonke Yudofu Okutan Kiyomizu Kyoto
Food & dining • Kyoto

Higashiyama Traditional Japanese tofu cuisine Souhonke Yudofu Okutan Kiyomizu Kyoto

Free cancellation
4.8 / 5
(8) • 300+ booked
€ 36.05
Nikuyanodaidokoro - Wagyu Beef Roasted Meati in Kyoto,Sanjo Kawaramachi
Food & dining • Kyoto

Nikuyanodaidokoro - Wagyu Beef Roasted Meati in Kyoto,Sanjo Kawaramachi

Book now for today
Free cancellation
Instant confirmation
3.9 / 5
(18) • 600+ booked
From
€ 21.69
Guenpin in Gion- Puffer Fish Specialist
Food & dining • Kyoto

Guenpin in Gion- Puffer Fish Specialist

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Free cancellation
4.5 / 5
(438) • 6K+ booked
€ 35.55
Michelin sushi series restaurant - Kaiten sushi ginza onodera KYOTO Kaiten sushi ginza onodera KYOTO conveyor belt sushi - Kyoto
€ 24.79
One-Michelin star Shuhaku in Kyoto
Food & dining • Kyoto

One-Michelin star Shuhaku in Kyoto

Free cancellation
5.0 / 5
(11) • 500+ booked
€ 47.09
Gion Kawakami (祇園川上) in Kyoto Gion
Food & dining • Kyoto

Gion Kawakami (祇園川上) in Kyoto Gion

Set menu
24-hour confirmation
4.5 / 5
(84) • 3K+ booked
€ 73.55
Kyo Kaiseki KINMATA (近又) in Kyoto
Food & dining • Kyoto

Kyo Kaiseki KINMATA (近又) in Kyoto

Set menu
24-hour confirmation
4.6 / 5
(10) • 400+ booked
€ 59.75
Yamabana Heihachidiya in Kyoto - Centuries old Japanese Traditional Kaiseki
Food & dining • Kyoto

Yamabana Heihachidiya in Kyoto - Centuries old Japanese Traditional Kaiseki

Free cancellation
4.8 / 5
(21) • 900+ booked
€ 34.69
Gion Maruyama (祇园丸山) and Kenninji Gion Maruyama - Michelin Starred Kaiseki in Kyoto Gion
Food & dining • Kyoto

Gion Maruyama (祇园丸山) and Kenninji Gion Maruyama - Michelin Starred Kaiseki in Kyoto Gion

Free cancellation
4.6 / 5
(9) • 700+ booked
€ 65.05
Kyo Kurozakura in Kyoto Gion
Food & dining • Kyoto

Kyo Kurozakura in Kyoto Gion

Free cancellation
4.2 / 5
(74) • 2K+ booked
€ 49.85
Kurashita - Kaiseki in Kyoto, Gion
Food & dining • Kyoto

Kurashita - Kaiseki in Kyoto, Gion

Free cancellation
4.8 / 5
(5) • 200+ booked
€ 53.19

More to explore

The ultimate entertainment experience lighting up Kyoto's night. DRUM TAO Live Wadaiko Drum Show
Events & shows • Kyoto

The ultimate entertainment experience lighting up Kyoto's night. DRUM TAO Live Wadaiko Drum Show

Book now for today
Free cancellation
Instant confirmation
4.8 / 5
(35) • 700+ booked
€ 61.95
Kyoto Gion: Samurai & Kimono Theatrical Show
From
€ 16.89
WSP pearl jewelry coupons
Shopping • Kyoto

WSP pearl jewelry coupons

Book now for today
Instant confirmation
100+ booked
Free Voucher
Bic Camera Tourist Privilege Discount Coupon in Kyoto
Shopping • Kyoto

Bic Camera Tourist Privilege Discount Coupon in Kyoto

Book now for today
Instant confirmation
4.7 / 5
(111) • 6K+ booked
Free Voucher
Same-Day Luggage Delivery Service | Osaka/Kyoto <-> Hiroshima/Hakata
Travel services • Kyoto

Same-Day Luggage Delivery Service | Osaka/Kyoto <-> Hiroshima/Hakata

Book now for today
Free cancellation
Instant confirmation
4.5 / 5
(12) • 100+ booked
€ 61.95
JPY6,000 off

Kyoto Imperial Palace Reviews

Klook User
2026-09-09 15:42:49
Fantastic 5.0
One of the best tours we ever had the privilege to experience. Our tour guide, Nobumasa Miyake, is a fine gentleman who was very engaging and knowledgeable and masterful at enlightening us with the historical facts and culture. His method of storytelling is direct with local lore, humor and personal experience which helped us feel like we are connected to the amazing culture and past of Japan. His empathy for our struggles to stay dry from the heavy rain that was pouring down upon us by offering to switch his large umbrella with our small umbrella is a fine example of his character, integrity and respect for others. In addition, to offering to help take pictures for us, giving away his copy of the map of Kyoto when learning it was our 1st time visiting Kyoto, and suggesting great spots for trying out food, shopping and exploring. We are so grateful to be guided by such an exemplary person and strongly recommend him to be anyone next tour guide! Thank you, Nobumasa Miyake and TripGuru!
Klook User
2026-08-25 02:52:31
Fantastic 5.0
We didnt get to see the castle, due to me booking on a tuesday (perhaps worth mentioning on the booking), but visiting the two shrines and the Palace with KC was informative, as well as the drive around. His english was good, he was enthusiastic, and he used humour well throughout.
Klook User
2026-09-16 08:19:14
Fantastic 5.0
We had a wonderful experience with our private car charter in Kyoto! A special thank you to our driver, Aki, who was incredibly kind, patient, and accommodating throughout our very long day. The car was immaculately clean, luxurious, spacious, and extremely comfortable, which made traveling around Kyoto throughout the day so enjoyable. Aki never made us feel rushed and allowed us to truly enjoy each stop and take in the beauty of Kyoto. More than just transportation, Aki helped make our day an experience filled with wonderful memories that we will treasure from our visit to Japan. His kindness, patience, and professionalism made such a difference. We are incredibly grateful and would highly recommend this private car charter—and especially Aki—to anyone visiting Kyoto! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Klook User
2026-06-30 08:01:02
Fantastic 5.0
Joined the 1-Day Kyoto Tour with Sunrise Tours and it was an absolute highlight of our Japan trip. Our tour guide was incredibly informative, courteous, and thoughtful — sharing fascinating insights while ensuring everyone felt comfortable and included. Perfectly organized with seamless transportation and a wonderful balance of must-see temples and hidden gems. Highly recommended!
soo ***
2026-10-10 13:54:09
Fantastic 5.0
Ben is helpful & explain the history of the locations well. He look out for us & we enjoyed the trip very much! Wonderful ride & thank you.
Klook 用戶
2026-10-13 16:28:57
Fantastic 5.0
This was a wonderful and unforgettable trip! Highly recommended for travelers who want to deeply explore the natural scenery around Kyoto and traditional Japanese culture. Visiting Amanohashidate, the Ine Funaya, and Miyama-cho all in one day, each attraction offered completely distinct characteristics. The natural landscape of Amanohashidate was stunning, the Ine Funaya was filled with a serene and charming fishing village vibe, and Miyama-cho's thatched-roof village let us experience the unique charm of traditional Japanese countryside. The entire tour was rich and fulfilling, and being able to appreciate such diverse Japanese scenery all at once was truly worth it! Special thanks to our tour guide today, Theodore Chen! His leadership made the whole journey even more enjoyable and allowed us to gain a deeper understanding of the history and culture of each spot. A great guide really adds so much value to a trip, turning sightseeing into more than just taking photos for check-ins, creating much deeper memories instead. If you want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy Japan's unique natural landscapes, traditional architecture, and rustic rural scenery, I highly recommend this tour! Whether it is your first time visiting Kyoto or you want to explore a different side of it, it is well worth joining.
Klook User
2026-10-11 00:42:57
Fantastic 5.0
if this review was a movie I’d call it 300 Ways to Cook Tofu! And it would be a hit! Don’t miss this movie guys!
NG ******
2026-06-15 12:37:03
Fantastic 5.0
The meat are very good for BBQ with their salted and sauced texture. The restaurant also provide free flow of drinks and vegetable!
Clare *
2026-04-19 14:28:06
Fantastic 5.0
When visiting Kyoto, you must try the local tofu dishes. The staff were very friendly and polite, and the restaurant's garden scenery and architecture were also beautiful. Being able to sit down and enjoy a meal in such a lovely environment, away from the noisy streets of Ninen-zaka, was a wonderful experience in itself. I was particularly impressed by the miso-grilled tofu; the green sauce on top paired perfectly with the tofu. The tofu hot pot itself had no extra seasoning, and the broth was simply a piece of kombu. While it allowed me to savor the natural flavor of the tofu, it was a bit too bland for my personal taste. I hope the restaurant can introduce more set menus with various cooking methods to enhance the dining experience.😌

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FAQs about Kyoto Imperial Palace

Where is Imperial Palace Kyoto?

Is Kyoto Imperial Palace worth visiting?

Can you go inside Kyoto Imperial Palace?

How long to spend at Kyoto Imperial Palace?

What to see in Kyoto Imperial Palace?

What to know about Kyoto Imperial Palace

Kyoto Imperial Palace, also known as Kyoto Gosho, is a historic landmark in Kyoto, Japan. It sits in the spacious Kyoto Imperial Palace Park, a big, beautiful park in the middle of the city. It used to be the former ruling palace of the Japanese Imperial Family before they moved the capital to Tokyo in 1869. When you visit, you can stroll through the palace grounds and explore the impressive courtyards. Inside, you can explore the Emperor's Living Quarters, majestic halls used for state ceremonies, and beautiful gardens like the Tachibana Orange Tree Garden. You can also go on a guided tour of the palace, it's a great way to learn about the palace's history, from the Heian period to the Meiji Restoration. Besides its rich history, the palace is one of the best spots in the city to view cherry blossoms in the spring. With its central location near Kyoto Station and other historic sites like Nijo Castle, the Kyoto Imperial Palace is a must-visit destination. It shows off Kyoto's royal past and gives an educational experience in the city.
3 Kyōtogyoen, Kamigyo Ward, Kyoto, 602-0881, Japan

What to know before visiting Kyoto Imperial Palace

Things to do at Kyoto Imperial Palace

Take a Guided Tour

Take a tour of the Kyoto Imperial Palace with a guide from the Imperial Household Agency. These tours are full of interesting facts about the palace's history, culture, and buildings. You'll walk through the former ruling palace of Japan, and see places like the Emperor's living quarters.

Visit the Shishinden (Hall for State Ceremonies)

The Shishinden is one of the main buildings where important events like the enthronement ceremonies and other state functions were held. Inside, you can check out the building's amazing architecture and learn about the historical events that happened here. It's a cool way to see what life was like in the Imperial Palace long ago.

Explore the Imperial Palace Gardens

The Imperial Palace Gardens are a must-see. The Japanese garden has flowers that bloom in different seasons, well-kept lawns, and traditional Japanese sights like stone lanterns and bridges. It's a great place for a peaceful walk and to enjoy the natural beauty of Kyoto.

See the Sakura and Tachibana Trees

At the Kyoto Imperial Palace grounds, see up close the iconic sakura (cherry blossom) and tachibana orange trees. These trees are not only pretty but also important in history, making the palace even more special.

Must-see Attractions near Kyoto Imperial Palace

Nijo Castle

Just a short distance from the Kyoto Imperial Palace, Nijo Castle is a UNESCO World Heritage site that lets you see the beauty of the Edo period. You can explore the beautiful gardens, intricate sliding doors, and historic buildings. It's a must-visit to understand more about Japan's samurai history and imperial rule.

Kyoto Gyoen National Garden

Surrounding the Kyoto Imperial Palace Park, the Kyoto Gyoen National Garden is the perfect place to take a walk. This public park has big grassy areas, ponds, and lots of cherry blossom trees. It's an awesome spot for a picnic or to just relax in nature.

Heian Shrine

Not far from the palace, the Heian Shrine in Kyoto showcases Japan's amazing history. This shrine has a big torii gate, lovely cherry blossoms, and classic Japanese gardens. It's a beautiful and peaceful place to visit after exploring the imperial residence.