Home Japan Tokyo Imperial Palace

Imperial Palace

★ 4.9 (317K+ reviews) • 13M+ booked
Overview
Things to do
Hotels
Restaurants

Imperial Palace Reviews

4.9 /5
317K+ reviews
Read all reviews
Hsieh ********
10 Mar
After watching the WBC, I used the QR code to board, which saved me time waiting in line to exchange tickets. It was very convenient, and currently, there are no service fees. I truly recommend everyone buy it. Thumbs up.
1+
翁 **
10 Mar
I chose Kabukicho for my ride, it's very convenient to get to Narita or Haneda from here! The price is 1400 JPY.
張 **
10 Mar
Booking tickets was quite convenient, as I didn't need to arrive early. However, I did have to exchange the voucher at the counter first. It would be even better if I could just scan a QR code in the future. I would definitely consider purchasing again!
2+
CHAIYA ***********
10 Mar
easy exchange at Ueno station kiosk
焦 *
10 Mar
This Tokyo Metro card is incredibly practical and can be used on many lines. If you're planning to explore the city center recently, we highly recommend purchasing it from this vendor; it's both affordable and convenient.
Klook User
10 Mar
Fastest way to get to Osaka from Tokyo!
Jonalyn ******
10 Mar
My clients' first bullet train experience in Japan is a memorable one. They enjoyed the experience. Booking with klooks is very easy and entering the platform requires QR code only so very accessible.
1+
劉 **
10 Mar
If you don't plan on using JR much, this pass is a great option! I bought it this time to see the cherry blossoms in Tokyo. I didn't spend much time at each spot, so the pass was very cost-effective. Unexpectedly, I had a wonderful cherry blossom viewing experience in February! 🌸🌸🌸
2+

Popular places near Imperial Palace

Arisugawa-no-miya Memorial Park
17M+ visitors
Roppongi Tsutaya Books
17M+ visitors
Mori Art Museum
17M+ visitors
Roppongi Hills
17M+ visitors
National Art Center Tokyo
17M+ visitors
Happoen Garden
16M+ visitors
Tenso Shrine
17M+ visitors
Yumenoshima Tropical Greenhouse Dome
18M+ visitors

FAQs about Imperial Palace

How much does it cost to visit the Imperial Palace?

How do I get to the Imperial Palace Tokyo?

When are the inner grounds of the Imperial Palace open?

What’s the best time of year to visit the Imperial Palace Tokyo?

What to know about Imperial Palace

The Imperial Palace is one of Tokyo’s most iconic landmarks. Set in the center of the city, it’s the official residence of Japan’s emperor and a peaceful retreat surrounded by moats, stone walls, and beautifully kept gardens. This site once held Edo Castle, the seat of the powerful Tokugawa Shogunate, and became the Imperial residence when the capital moved to Tokyo in 1869. What makes the Imperial Palace Tokyo special is its blend of deep history and calm beauty. You can stroll through its East Gardens for free, see castle ruins, and enjoy seasonal flowers. The inner palace grounds are usually off-limits, making the two open days each year—January 2nd and the Emperor’s birthday—very special. Whether you’re into history, nature, or peaceful views, a visit here offers a unique slice of Tokyo. Be sure to book your tickets and tours early for the best experience
1-1 Chiyoda, Chiyoda City, Tokyo 100-8111, Japan

Things to Do at Imperial Palace

Wander the East Gardens

These peaceful, free gardens are open most days and filled with seasonal flowers, castle ruins, and scenic walking paths.

Join the Free Guided Tour

Access parts of the inner palace area through a one-hour tour in English. Tours begin at Kikyomon Gate and fill up fast.

Explore Edo Castle Remains

Discover stone walls built without cement, the base of Japan's largest former castle tower, and other historic structures.

Relax in the Front Gardens (Kokyo Gaien)

This open green space is perfect for walks and photos. Be sure to check out the famous statue of Kusunoki Masashige.

Row a Boat in the Moat

Rent a rowboat at Chidorigafuchi, near Kitanomaru Park. It's especially beautiful during cherry blossom season.

Spot Historic Buildings

See restored guardhouses, the 1659 Fujima Tama Defense House, and a small stone cellar in the East Gardens.

Tips Before Visiting Imperial Palace

Wear Good Shoes

The Imperial Palace grounds are huge---over 1.3 square miles---so be ready to walk.

Bring Water

There aren't many drink vendors inside the gardens, so stay hydrated.

Plan Ahead for Tours

To join the inner guided tour, book online early or arrive at the gate around 8:30 AM.

Avoid Moat Crowds

Want a quiet boat ride? Visit during the off-season instead of cherry blossom time.

Keep Expectations Realistic

One traveler said the inner tour is interesting but not a must-do. It's a nice bonus---not a must-see.

Check Garden Amenities

There's a small shop in the East Gardens for drinks and snacks, but not full meals.

Popular Attractions Near Imperial Palace

Kitanomaru Park (5 minutes)

Just north of the Imperial Palace, this green space includes the Science Museum, the National Museum of Modern Art, and the Nippon Budokan.

Shibuya Crossing (25 minutes by train)

The world's busiest pedestrian crossing, with tons of food spots, shopping, and nearby shrines.

Yoyogi Park (30 minutes by train)

A massive city park near Shibuya, perfect for relaxing, people-watching, or joining locals for games and weekend fun.

Explore more on Klook

Help
© 2014-2026 Klook. All rights reserved. Do not sell or share my personal Information