Tokyo Imperial Palace Tours and Activities

Photo provided by JNTO
Photo provided by JNTO
Photo provided by JNTO
Photo provided by JNTO
Photo provided by JNTO


This site was first a shogun residence, then the home for Japan’s emperor. Destroyed in World War II, it was reconstructed to its original splendor.

Tokyo Imperial Palace remains the primary residence of Japan’s Imperial Family. Much like residences for heads of state around the world, the palace buildings and inner gardens are not open to the public. However, twice a year (December 23 and January 2), you can enter the inner palace gardens to see the Imperial Family waving from a balcony.

The ancient name for Tokyo was Edo. From the 1600s to 1867, shoguns ruling Edo occupied this site in central Tokyo, living in Edo Castle. In 1868, when the shogunate was displaced, Japan moved its capital from Kyoto to Tokyo and occupied the Edo Castle site. After fire destroyed much of the complex, they built a new imperial palace in 1888.

Take note of the stone walls and towers and the Nijubashi bridges crossing the moat from outer to inner palace grounds. They are reminiscent of structures on the site hundreds of years ago when moats and ramparts served a critical protective function.

To the east of the residence is the Imperial Palace East Garden, which is open to the public daily, except Mondays and Fridays. The venue offers peaceful green spaces and ponds with a landscaped Japanese garden. Relics from early castle walls are visible. Nearby are the National Museum of Modern Art Tokyo, the MOMAT Kogeikan Crafts Gallery and the Science Museum.  

Just north of the palace is Kitanomaru Park, a public area that is the site of Nippon Budokan Hall. The Budokan is a world famous martial arts, wrestling and music performance center that has hosted international stars from The Beatles to Taylor Swift. The Yasukuni Shrine is a short walk northwest.

The palace is located in the center of Tokyo on a 1.3-square mile (3.4-square kilometer) site. It is just a few minutes from Tokyo station. Otemachi station is the closest to the East Garden and Kudanshita is closest to Budokan.

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Best Lodging Options Near Tokyo Imperial Palace

Hotel Niwa Tokyo

Hotel Niwa Tokyo

4 out of 5
1-1-16 Kandamisaki-cho, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, Tokyo
Hotel Niwa Tokyo
Hotel Metropolitan Edmont Tokyo

Hotel Metropolitan Edmont Tokyo

4 out of 5
3-10-8 Iidabashi, Chiyoda Ku, Tokyo, Tokyo-to
Hotel Metropolitan Edmont Tokyo
Hotel Monterey Hanzomon

Hotel Monterey Hanzomon

3.5 out of 5
23-1 Ichiban-cho, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, Tokyo-to
Hotel Monterey Hanzomon
Nest Hotel Tokyo Hanzomon

Nest Hotel Tokyo Hanzomon

3 out of 5
2-18 Hayabusacho, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, Tokyo
Nest Hotel Tokyo Hanzomon
Palace Hotel Tokyo

Palace Hotel Tokyo

5 out of 5
1-1-1 Marunouchi, Chiyoda, Tokyo, Tokyo-to
Palace Hotel Tokyo
KOKO HOTEL Ginza 1chome

KOKO HOTEL Ginza 1chome

3.5 out of 5
1-9-5, Ginza, Chuo-ku, Tokyo, Tokyo
KOKO HOTEL Ginza 1chome
Hotel New Otani Tokyo Garden Tower

Hotel New Otani Tokyo Garden Tower

4.5 out of 5
4-1 Kioi-cho Chiyoda-ku, Hotel New Otani Tokyo Garden Tower, Tokyo, Tokyo-to
Hotel New Otani Tokyo Garden Tower
Imperial Hotel, Tokyo

Imperial Hotel, Tokyo

5 out of 5
1-1-1 Uchisaiwaicho Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, Tokyo-to
Imperial Hotel, Tokyo
Sotetsu Fresa Inn Ginza Nanachome

Sotetsu Fresa Inn Ginza Nanachome

3 out of 5
7-11-12 Ginza, Chuo, Tokyo, Tokyo-to
Sotetsu Fresa Inn Ginza Nanachome
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Things to do near Tokyo Imperial Palace

When visiting the Tokyo Imperial Palace, you can enjoy a variety of activities, including shopping at nearby boutiques, taking photo tours, and exploring the scenic Sotobori Park. Consider joining a private tour or an imperial palace tour to deepen your experience of this historical site. With a perfect blend of culture and leisure, the area surrounding the palace offers something for every traveller.

Shopping

For a delightful shopping experience near Tokyo Imperial Palace, check out Roppongi Hills, only 3.2km away, with its vibrant city atmosphere. The Tsukiji Outer Market, also 3.2km away, offers a bustling vibe. If you're up for a drive, visit Omotesando Hills, 4.8km away, for family-friendly entertainment.

Recreation

Experience the vibrant energy at Tokyo Dome, just 1.6km from the palace, perfect for sports enthusiasts. For relaxation, visit Tatsuminomori Seaside Park, five miles away, where serene landscapes await. Nippon Budokan, only 966m away, offers a rich sporting atmosphere to explore.

Adventure

Explore the Chidorigafuchi Walking Path for a scenic hike, surrounded by nature and historical charm. Enjoy the outdoor vibes at Koshu Highway, perfect for a leisurely stroll. For a family-friendly adventure, head to Wakasu Campground, where you can camp and connect with nature.

Nightlife

Experience Tokyo's vibrant nightlife near the Imperial Palace. Enjoy a captivating performance at the Kabuki-za Theatre, indulge in a romantic film at Cineswitch Ginza, or unleash your inner child at Asobono arcade. Each venue offers a unique blend of culture, adventure, and family-friendly fun.

Find the best attractions near Tokyo Imperial Palace

Exploring the Tokyo Imperial Palace offers a rich blend of culture and leisure, with nearby attractions like serene shrines, lush urban parks, and engaging art museums. Ideal for families and culture enthusiasts, this area also features points of interest such as the iconic Tokyo Dome and the historic Japan Imperial Palace. Dive into the local experience and enjoy the vibrant city life surrounding this stunning landmark.

  • Tokyo Tower: Standing at 3.2km from the Imperial Palace, Tokyo Tower offers a striking blend of modern architecture and panoramic city views. Its vibrant atmosphere is perfect for capturing stunning photos of the Tokyo skyline.
  • Ueno Park: Located 4.8km away, Ueno Park is a lush urban oasis ideal for families. With its expansive greenery, museums, and cherry blossoms in spring, it provides a delightful escape from the bustling city life.
  • Meiji Jingu Shrine: Also 4.8km from the palace, Meiji Jingu Shrine immerses visitors in a tranquil cultural experience. Surrounded by a serene forest, it’s a beautiful place to reflect and appreciate Japan's spiritual heritage.

Best time to go to Tokyo Imperial Palace

Visitor numbers around Tokyo Imperial Palace is generally unchanged in popularity throughout the year. The best time to visit Tokyo Imperial Palace is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. August is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconOccupancyprice iconPricing
January41.9°F (5.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
February43.3°F (6.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
March50.2°F (10.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
April57.7°F (14.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
May66.6°F (19.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
June72.0°F (22.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
July79.3°F (26.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
August81.9°F (27.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
September75.7°F (24.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly Low
October66.0°F (18.9°C)Moderate RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
November57.0°F (13.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
December46.9°F (8.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Tokyo Imperial Palace

When visiting Tokyo Imperial Palace, consider exploring nearby free attractions like Shibuya Crossing and Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden. For budget-friendly accommodation, January, February, and September are the cheapest months, while booking a month in advance can yield savings. Tuesdays are typically the least expensive days to stay, and Expedia offers last-minute deals. Use their search tool to compare prices and find flexible booking options, special offers, and free cancellation. Combining your hotel, flights, and activities into an Expedia package can further enhance your savings.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Tokyo Imperial Palace are January to February and September, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to March to April and December, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel around Tokyo Imperial Palace is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay, though if you're late to the party, have a look at Expedia's last minute deals - the green banner below the hotel's price indicates a discounted rate.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Tokyo Imperial Palace is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around Tokyo Imperial Palace is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and preferred type of accommodation. To find the best prices and deals, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel reservation at the Tokyo Imperial Palace with your flights and activities by opting for an Expedia package.