Imperial Palace East Garden and Edo Castle Walking Tour in Tokyo

About this experience

Embark on a captivating journey through both ancient and modern Tokyo with our Walking Tour of the Imperial Palace. Discover the historic residence of the Shogun, now home to the Emperor of Japan. Delve into the rich history of the Samurai as you stroll through lush gardens adorned with seasonal flowers. Please note, while we won't enter the Imperial Palace, this tour promises a fascinating exploration of its surroundings.

Itinerary

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1. Stop 1

   Duration: 20 min

   Wadakura Fountain Park, located near the Imperial Palace in Tokyo, Japan, is a beautifully designed public space known for its tranquil atmosphere and stunning water features. Originally constructed in 1961 to commemorate the royal wedding of Emperor Akihito and Empress Michiko, the park was redesigned and reopened in 1995 to celebrate the wedding of the Crown Prince Naruhito and Crown Princess Masako.

2. Stop 2

   Duration: 15 min

   Sakurada Tatsumi Yagura is a three-story watchtower located at the southeast corner of the former Edo Castle. It overlooks the moat and was an important part of the castle's defense system, allowing guards to monitor the surrounding area. The present tower dates from the Edo period and was damaged during the Great Kanto Earthquake of 1923. It was carefully restored to its original appearance soon afterward. Today, it remains one of the few surviving watchtowers of Edo Castle, showcasing the castle's impressive military architecture.

3. Stop 3

   Duration: 15 min

   Ote-mon Gate is the main entrance to the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace. During the Edo period, it served as the principal gate of Edo Castle, where only authorized samurai and officials could enter. The massive stone walls and sturdy wooden gate were designed for defense as well as prestige. Today, visitors pass through the same historic entrance to explore the peaceful gardens, offering a glimpse into Japan's feudal past and the legacy of the Tokugawa shoguns.

4. Stop 4

   Duration: 60 min

   The East Gardens of the Imperial Palace in Tokyo are a serene escape from the city. Once part of Edo Castle, they feature lush gardens, ponds, and historic ruins. Highlights include the Honmaru area with castle remnants and the Ninomaru Garden for traditional Japanese scenery. Visitors can stroll among cherry blossoms in spring and colorful foliage in autumn, immersing themselves in Japan's feudal history and tranquil beauty.

5. Stop 5

   Duration: 10 min

   Suwa no Chaya tea house was built by order of Emperor Meiji in 1912, in the Fukiage Gardens in the western part of the Imperial Palace grounds. The teahouse was moved to its current location in 1968. The name Suwa Teahouse refers to the Shinto deity Suwa, to whom there was a small shrine near the teahouse’s original location.

6. Stop 6

   Duration: 30 min

   Ninomaru Garden is a traditional Japanese strolling garden located within the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace. It was reconstructed in the 1960s based on historical drawings from the reign of the ninth Tokugawa shogun, Tokugawa Ieshige, preserving the style of the Edo period. The garden features a peaceful pond, seasonal flowers, carefully arranged stones, and elegant trees. It is also home to long-fin koi, an elegant variety of ornamental carp known for their graceful, flowing fins.

What's included

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• English speaking Local guide

Additional information

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• Wheelchair accessible
• Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
• Service animals allowed
• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
• All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels
• Please note: This tour does not go inside the Imperial Palace buildings, as entry is not permitted to the public. The experience includes the Imperial Palace East Gardens and surrounding grounds, with historical insights and great photo opportunities.

Cancellation policy

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For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.