Imperial Palace Tourism

The Imperial Palace, located in the heart of Tokyo, Japan, is the main residence of the Emperor of Japan. Surrounded by moats and massive stone walls, it is a symbol of tradition and history, standing on the former site of Edo Castle, a large park area known as the Imperial Palace East Gardens remains accessible to the public. The palace complex is vast, spanning approximately 1.15 square kilometers. It includes the main palace (Kyūden), the private residences of the imperial family, an archive, museums, and administrative offices. Although the inner grounds of the palace are not generally open to the public, visitors can enjoy the East Gardens and the outer garden, which contains the famous Nijubashi Bridge — a picturesque double-arched bridge that forms an entrance to the inner palace grounds. The Imperial Palace is also notable for its role in various official ceremonies and state functions. Visiting the palace grounds offers a unique opportunity to experience the serene atmosphere and to witness the changing of the imperial guards, a popular attraction for tourists.