Kyoto Imperial Palace + Nijo Castle Guided Tour

Embark on a guided exploration of the Imperial Palace and Nijo Castle, revealing the fascinating history behind two of Kyoto's renowned treasures!

Guided Tour of Imperial Palace and Nijo Castle

We will gather at the Nijojo-Mae train station at the scheduled time. Once everyone is present, we will set out to discover the Kyoto Imperial Palace and Nijo Castle!

Our journey begins at the Imperial Palace, once home to the Japanese royal family. The principal structure, initially erected in 1630, sadly fell victim to a fire in 1854. However, a careful reconstruction was completed a year later, allowing visitors to experience its grandeur.

During the visit, we will meander through the palace's various chambers, delving into the vibrant culture that characterized the Japanese court and understanding its significance as a venue for modern state gatherings. The palace gardens await, showcasing the stunning Oikeniwa, known as the main garden, alongside the beautiful Gonaitei, both adorned with exquisite flora and towering trees.

Following our palace visit, we will head to Nijo Castle. An interesting tidbit: this site once served as the home of the first Shogun of the Tokugawa shogunate, whose influence extended for more than two centuries. This impressive structure is surrounded by a moat, encompassing an area that exceeds 200,000 square meters (2,152,782 square feet).

As we explore the castle, you'll appreciate the ornate decor featuring paintings from the Edo period, with walls and ceilings clad in rice paper and rooms enhanced by tatami flooring. The intricate artistry is bound to leave you in awe!

At the conclusion of our guided tour, we will proceed to Imadegawa Station, where we will part ways three hours later.