How to visit the Imperial Palace?

Hello! Planning a visit to the Imperial Palace? Great question - it trips up a lot of first-timers who aren't sure how to navigate it. Don't worry, I'll break this down for you so it's super clear.

Basically, visiting the Imperial Palace falls into two categories: The "Outer Areas" you can visit anytime, and the "Inner Area" that requires advance booking.

🌳 Part 1: Walk Right In, Free Areas (Kōkyo Gaien & East Gardens)

This is where most tourists go. No booking, no cost, just show up.

1. Imperial Palace Outer Garden (Kōkyo Gaien)

What is it? The huge plaza park right in front of the Imperial Palace's main entrance.
What to see?
- Nijūbashi Bridge: The landmark! Everyone snaps pics here. Important: You can only view it from a distance, you CANNOT walk on it. Seeing the bridge with the white Fushimi-Yagura turret behind it gives the iconic view.
- Statue of Kusunoki Masashige: A famous bronze statue of a mounted samurai.
- Vast expanses of black pines and lawns – perfect for a relaxing walk.
Getting there: Take the subway to "Nijūbashi-mae" Station or "Hibiya" Station, short walk. Also a 10-15 minute walk from "Tokyo" Station's Marunouchi Exit.

2. Imperial Palace East Garden (East Gardens of the Imperial Palace)

What is it? The site of the Edo Castle's "Honmaru" (main keep) and "Ninomaru" (secondary enclosure) – the shogun's inner citadel. Now a publicly accessible garden.
What to see?
- Ōte-mon Gate: The former main gate of Edo Castle. Enter here and see some old guardhouses.
- Tenshudai (Castle Keep Base): Edo Castle once had Japan's largest keep tower, sadly burned down. Now only the massive stone base remains. You can climb up to imagine its former glory and get sweeping views.
- Ninomaru Garden: A beautiful traditional Japanese strolling garden with seasonal flowers, great for photos.
Getting there: Access from "Ōtemachi" Station or "Takebashi" Station. Or walk directly from the Outer Garden.
Important notes:
- Hours: Generally 9:00 AM to 4:00 or 5:00 PM (seasonal), BUT closed every Monday and Friday (or the next weekday if they are holidays). Don't get caught out!
- Entry: You'll get an "admission token" (plastic pass) at the entrance, return it on exit. Completely free.

Quick Takeaway: If you just want to soak up the atmosphere and grab that "I was in Tokyo" photo, visiting Kōkyo Gaien and the East Garden is perfect. Takes about half a day max, easy and relaxed.

👑 Part 2: The Advancely-Booked "Inner Area" Tour (Imperial Palace Guided Tour)

For history buffs or anyone wanting a deeper look (from the outside!) at where the Emperor works and lives, try this booked tour.

What is it? A guided walk through the palace's "inner precincts," led by staff from the Imperial Household Agency (the managing body).
What to see?
- Palace Buildings: Including the "Chōwaden" State Banquet Hall, where the Imperial Family greets the public during New Year's greetings from the balcony.
- Fujimi-yagura Turret: View this precious surviving structure from Edo Castle up close from inside the grounds.
- Imperial Household Agency Building
- Important Reminder: You ONLY view buildings from the outside, you DO NOT enter any rooms! It's mostly about seeing the exteriors and listening to the commentary.
How to Book? (Crucial!)
- Online (Highly Recommended): Go to the Imperial Household Agency website (search "Imperial Household Agency" or "宮内庁参観案内").
  - Booking usually opens one month in advance at 5:00 AM Japan Time. E.g., to book for May 10th, book at 5:00 AM on April 1st.
  - Peak seasons (Cherry Blossoms, Autumn Leaves) are very busy. Set alarms and book immediately!
  - Requires name, passport number, nationality, etc.
- Same-Day Lineup: If online fails, don't lose hope. Limited spots are often available on-site each morning/afternoon.
  - Line up at the Kikyō-mon Gate for a numbered entry ticket.
  - Morning tickets start around 9:00 AM, afternoon around 12:30 PM. Arrive 30-45 minutes early to secure a spot!
Tour Day:
- Bring your original passport! And booking confirmation (printed or screenshot)! Staff check ID.
- Meet at Kikyō-mon Gate at the assigned time.
- The tour lasts about 75 minutes. Commentary is in Japanese, but free audio guides in (and other languages) are available for rent.
- The tour is also free.

✨ Special Events

Beyond the regular tours, two special days grant public access inside and a chance to see the Emperor!

New Year's Greeting (January 2nd)
Emperor's Birthday (天皇誕生日) On these days, the Imperial Family appears on the Chōwaden balcony to wave to the public. Anyone can enter via the main gate. It's an incredible spectacle, but expect massive crowds – brace yourself!

Quick Guide Summary

Casual stroll & photos: Go to Kōkyo Gaien + East Garden. Free, no booking. Note East Garden closed Mon/Fri.
Deep dive, see palace buildings: Book the Imperial Palace Guided Tour via the Imperial Household Agency website, OR line up early at Kikyō-mon Gate. Free, but PASSPORT REQUIRED.
See the Emperor: Time your visit for January 2nd or the Emperor's Birthday and be ready for crowds!

Hope this info helps you have a fantastic time in Tokyo!