Imperial Palace East Gardens
Where Edo Castle's Legacy Meets Tranquil Garden Beauty
The Imperial Palace East Gardens occupy the former site of Edo Castle's inner citadel, which served as the seat of power for the Tokugawa shogunate from 1603 to 1868. Edo Castle was once the world's largest castle by area, with elaborate fortifications, multiple moats, and towering stone walls. The main castle keep (tenshu) burned down in 1657 and was never rebuilt, but the massive stone foundations remain visible today.
After the Meiji Restoration in 1868, the castle became the Imperial Palace when Emperor Meiji moved the capital from Kyoto to Tokyo. Most castle buildings were demolished or destroyed during World War II. In 1968, to commemorate the new reign of Emperor Hirohito, the East Gardens portion was opened to the public, making this the only part of the palace grounds regularly accessible to visitors without special permission.
The gardens combine remnants of Edo Castle architecture - including guard houses, gates, and the massive stone foundation of the main keep - with beautifully maintained Japanese gardens featuring seasonal flowers, traditional landscaping, and over 260 varieties of trees. The gardens serve as both a historical site and a living museum of Japanese garden design, offering Tokyo residents and visitors a tranquil space in the heart of the city.
Key Highlights
- Site of Edo Castle's main keep, built 1603, Japan's center of power for 265 years
- Massive stone foundation of main keep (tenshu-dai) remains after 1657 fire
- Opened to public in 1968 as part of Emperor Hirohito's succession celebration
- Three remaining Edo-period guardhouses designated Important Cultural Properties
- 21 hectares combining historical castle ruins with Japanese garden design
- Over 260 tree varieties and seasonal flower displays year-round
Access Information
Location
1-1 Chiyoda, Chiyoda City, Tokyo 100-8111, Japan
Nearest Stations
- • Otemachi Station (multiple subway lines)
- • Tokyo Station (JR lines and Marunouchi Line)
- • Takebashi Station (Tozai Line)
Opening Hours
Mar 1-Apr 14: 9:00-17:00 (last entry 16:30) | Apr 15-Aug: 9:00-18:00 (last entry 17:30) | Sep-Oct: 9:00-17:00 (last entry 16:30) | Nov-Feb: 9:00-16:30 (last entry 16:00) | Closed Mondays and Fridays (except if national holiday), Dec 28-Jan 3, special events
Admission Fee
Free admission
How to Get There
From Otemachi Station
Exit C13b or C10, walk to Otemon Gate (main entrance)
5 minutes
From Tokyo Station
Walk north through Marunouchi area to Otemon Gate
10-15 minutes
From Takebashi Station
Exit 1a, walk to Hirakawamon Gate (north entrance)
5 minutes
Tips & Visiting Guide
Make the most of your visit with these helpful tips and guidelines.
Three Entrance Gates Available
Otemon (main gate, most accessible), Hirakawamon (north gate, near Takebashi Station), and Kitahanebashimon (northeast gate) provide entry. Receive a numbered entry token which you return upon exit. This tracks visitor numbers for safety.
Climb the Tenshu-dai Foundation
The massive stone foundation of the former main castle keep can be climbed via stairs. From the top, enjoy views of the gardens and modern Tokyo skyline - a powerful contrast of old and new Japan. The foundation alone shows the scale of the lost keep.
Plan Around Closing Days
The gardens close every Monday and Friday (except national holidays). Check the official calendar before visiting as special imperial events occasionally require closures. The gardens are free but only open when the Imperial Household determines.
Seasonal Highlights
Cherry blossoms (late March-early April), azaleas and wisteria (April-May), irises (June), autumn foliage (November), and plum blossoms (February) each offer unique beauty. The gardens are designed for year-round interest.
Photography Paradise
The contrast between ancient stone walls, traditional gardens, and modern skyscrapers visible in the background creates unique photo opportunities. Early morning light is particularly beautiful. Bring a camera - this is one of Tokyo's most photogenic spots.
Walking Route Suggestion
Enter via Otemon, visit the guardhouses, walk through the main garden area, climb the tenshu-dai, visit the Ninomaru Garden, and exit via Hirakawamon for a complete experience. Allow 1-2 hours for a thorough visit.
Museum of Imperial Collections
The museum within the gardens displays art and artifacts from the Imperial family's collection, rotating exhibitions quarterly. Entrance is free. The building itself showcases modern Japanese architecture in harmony with the historical setting.
Security and Restrictions
Bag checks occur at entry. Large luggage is not permitted. Stay on designated paths. The gardens are part of the Imperial Palace complex, requiring respectful behavior. No drones, no picking plants, and no eating outside designated areas.
FAQ
How do I visit the gardens?
Entry is free but bring passport/ID. Enter through Otemon, Hirakawa-mon, or Kitahanebashi-mon gates. Audio guides available. Closed Mondays, Fridays, and special occasions. Check the schedule online before visiting.
How long should I spend here?
Most visitors spend 1.5-2 hours exploring. History enthusiasts might want 3 hours. The gardens are extensive with historical ruins, seasonal flowers, and the impressive Ninomaru Garden to explore.
Can I see the Emperor?
No, the Imperial Family's residence isn't accessible. However, you can join the Imperial Palace tours (reservation required) to see more buildings. The Emperor appears publicly only on January 2 and his birthday.
What remains of Edo Castle?
Foundation stones, massive walls, moats, guardhouses, and the base of the former castle tower. The Fujimi-yagura tower offers great views. Historical markers explain the original layout.
When are the best seasons to visit?
Spring for cherry blossoms, autumn for fall colors, but each season has appeal. The iris garden blooms in June. Winter offers plum blossoms and fewer crowds. Check seasonal highlights before visiting.
Is it worth visiting with kids?
Yes, kids enjoy the open spaces, koi ponds, and climbing the castle foundation. However, it's more historical than playground-like. Bring snacks as food options are limited inside.
Are there guided tours?
Free volunteer guided tours in English are available on some days. Check the schedule at the gate. Audio guides provide good self-guided experience. Tours offer deeper historical context.
Can I have lunch in the gardens?
There's a small rest house with basic refreshments but no restaurants. Eating on benches is allowed. Many visitors bring bentos or eat in nearby Marunouchi after visiting.
What's the security like?
Security checks at entrance include bag inspection. Large luggage isn't permitted. The process is quick and polite. Keep your numbered token to exit.
What else can I see nearby?
Tokyo Station, Marunouchi shopping, Tokyo International Forum, and Ginza are all walking distance. Many combine the gardens with these areas for a full day exploring central Tokyo.
Nearby Attractions
Explore more wonderful destinations in the same prefecture.
Akihabara
Tokyo's world-famous 'Electric Town' and otaku paradise, offering endless electronics shops, anime stores, manga cafes, maid cafes, and gaming arcades.
Ameyoko Shopping Street
A vibrant open-air market street in Ueno offering fresh seafood, international foods, discount clothing, and nostalgic post-war atmosphere.
DiverCity Tokyo Plaza & Gundam Statue
A large shopping complex in Odaiba featuring a life-sized Gundam robot statue, anime merchandise, and entertainment facilities in Tokyo's futuristic waterfront district.
Ghibli Museum Mitaka
A whimsical museum dedicated to Studio Ghibli animation, designed by Hayao Miyazaki himself, featuring exclusive short films and enchanting exhibits.
Ginza District
Tokyo's most prestigious shopping district featuring luxury boutiques, department stores, fine dining, art galleries, and the elegant architecture of Japan's commercial sophistication.
Golden Gai
A labyrinth of six narrow alleys containing over 200 tiny bars, each seating 4-10 patrons, preserving Tokyo's underground drinking culture and artistic heritage.
Harajuku / Takeshita Street
The epicenter of Tokyo's youth fashion culture, featuring trendy boutiques, colorful crepe shops, and the famous Takeshita Street where kawaii culture comes alive.
Jindaiji Temple
Tokyo's second-oldest temple surrounded by natural forests and famous for its soba noodle shops, botanical gardens, and traditional atmosphere just outside central Tokyo.