Tokyo is often thought of as a busy, modern metropolis; the largest metropolitan city in the world and a hub of economics and technology. Neon signs in Akihabara come to mind; the pedestrian crossing of Shibuya, along with speeding bullet trains, kawaii cat cafes, and subway sushi bars. But Tokyo is also a city of tradition and history, nature and green spaces.
Nowhere is this best exemplified than the Tokyo Imperial Palace (Kōkyo, or Imperial Residence). It is the residence of the Emperor of Japan and the Imperial Family, as well as a popular tourist attraction. The Imperial Palace sprawls over a neatly manicured parkland area 1.15 square kilometres (0.44 square miles) that includes the palace buildings, gardens, and parks. The entire grounds are bordered by a moat protected by stone walls, and accessed by picturesque arch bridges.
The good news for visitors – large parts of the Imperial Palace grounds are completely free to visit!
History of Tokyo Imperial Palace
From 1603 to 1868, the shōguns (local military rulers) held the governing power in Japan, a period known as the Edo period. Meanwhile, the Emperors of Japan resided in Kyoto Castle, and held mostly ceremonial roles.
In 1868, an overthrow of government took place, spurred by interactions with foreign ideas and new technology, and dissatisfaction of the people. This period was called the Meiji Restoration. The Emperor Meiji was re-established as head of state, overthrowing the Tokugawa Shogunate and establishing the newly formed Empire of Japan. The Imperial capital was moved from Kyoto to Tokyo (then called Edo).
Edo Castle in Edo (now Tokyo) was chosen as the Emperor’s seat. It was built in 1457 and expanded over the centuries to form a formidable castle complex. When power passed to the Emperor Meiji, The last Shōgun Tokugawa Yoshinobu was forced to vacate, and the Emperor arrived in November 1868.
But big changes were in store for the Imperial Palace. In 1873, a fire devastated the Nishinomaru Palace, which was rebuilt in 1888. The worst came at the end of WW2, when a 1945 firebombing raid destroyed all the palace structures. Soon afterwards, the Emperor Hirohito announced Japan’s surrender from a concrete air raid shelter. New residences, designed by architect Junzō Yoshimura, were built on the western grounds from 1964-1968. The east grounds were opened to the public.
Can I Visit Tokyo Imperial Palace?
Tokyo Imperial Palace is open for visitors – well, only certain parts, that is. The Imperial Palace is divided into several main areas – Imperial Palace Grounds, East Gardens, Kokyogaien, and Kitanomaru Garden.
Tokyo Imperial Palace Grounds
The Emperor’s private residence is located on the Palace Grounds. It is only open twice a year, for New Year’s Greeting (2nd January) and the Emperor’s Birthday (23rd February). On these days, the Imperial Family make public appearances on the Chōwa-Den Reception Hall balcony. Guided tours of the Imperial Palace Grounds are available for visitors, but no visitors are permitted inside the buildings. The Fukiage Palace and garden is the main residence of Emperor Naruhito.
Tokyo Imperial Palace East Gardens
One of the most beautiful gardens in the city of Tokyo to explore are the East Gardens, Japanese-style gardens open year-round. This is a great place to observe cherry blossoms, and admire the stunning autumn tree colours in the autumn. There are persimmon trees (kaki) on display, the national fruit of Japan.
Many administrative buildings are located here, as well as the beautiful Tōkagakudō music hall, and Suwa no Chaya tea house.
Kitanomaru Garden
This large garden in the northern part of the Palace area was opened to the public in 1969. The garden is popular with picnickers, bird watchers, and has spectacular red maple leaves in the autumn. The park is home to a number of museums, including the National Museum of Modern Art, the Science and Technology Museum, as well as the Nippon Budokan martial arts arena.
The most amazing cherry blossom displays are seen at Chidorigafuchi Park, which follow the moat and are illuminated at night.
Kokyogaien
The southern section of the grounds is Kokyogaien, which has some original structures from the old castle, such as walls and architectural remnants. One of the most famous sights is the Nijubashi double bridge, with the Fushimi-Nagura watchtower standing tall behind. Another notable sight is the Sakurada-mon gate, the largest gate still standing. Other notable sights are the Meganebashi (Eyeglass Bridge), and the equestrian statue of Kusunoki Masashige, a 14th century samurai celebrated for his steadfast loyalty.
Tokyo Imperial Palace Moat and Surrounds
Locals use the roads surrounding the Palace moat as a beautiful running track, admiring the fortifications across the water, and the skyscrapers on the track side. Each tour is around 5km (3.1 miles).
How to Get to Tokyo Imperial Palace
Tokyo Imperial Palace is very easy to find. Considering how large the grounds are right in the heart of Tokyo, there are several entrances. Located in Chiyoda-ku, JR Tōkyo station and Otemachi Station are easy walking distance to the Imperial Palace.
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Many visitors feel disappointed that they aren’t able to see the Imperial residence when they walk around the grounds. Nor is the Imperial Palace a grand, imposing castle structure that many imagine. However, the different gardens and areas of this huge site are filled with beautiful structures, from historical pieces of the old Edo castle, modern art galleries, to autumn leaves and cherry blossoms. To escape the noise and intensity of the city of Tokyo, it is well worth spending a day exploring Tokyo Imperial Palace.
StickyMangoRice 