Nijo Castle
Where Shoguns Ruled and Floors Sang
Nijo Castle was built in 1603 as the Kyoto residence of Tokugawa Ieyasu, the first shogun of the Edo period and founder of the Tokugawa shogunate that ruled Japan for over 250 years. The castle served as a symbol of the shogun's power and authority over the emperor and imperial court in Kyoto. Major expansions were completed in 1626 for Emperor Go-Mizunoo's visit, including the addition of the five-building Ninomaru Palace complex.
The castle witnessed two of Japan's most significant historical moments: in 1867, Tokugawa Yoshinobu, the 15th and last shogun, announced the restoration of imperial rule from Ninomaru Palace, effectively ending 700 years of samurai governance. In 1994, UNESCO designated Nijo Castle as a World Heritage site as part of the 'Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto,' recognizing its outstanding architectural and historical significance.
Ninomaru Palace is renowned for its 'uguisubari' or nightingale floors - deliberately squeaky floorboards that chirp like birds when walked upon, designed to alert guards to intruders. The palace's 33 rooms contain over 3,000 paintings by the famous Kano school artists on gilded sliding doors, depicting tigers, leopards, pine trees, and seasonal flowers. These elaborate decorations demonstrated the shogun's wealth and power to visitors.
Key Highlights
- UNESCO World Heritage site since 1994
- Famous 'nightingale floors' security system
- Ninomaru Palace with 3,000+ Kano school paintings
- Beautiful gardens designed by tea master Kobori Enshu
- Witness to the end of the samurai era (1867)
- Outstanding example of feudal castle architecture
Access Information
Location
541 Nijojocho, Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto 604-8301, Japan
Nearest Stations
- • Nijojo-mae Station (Tozai Subway Line)
- • Karasuma Oike Station (Karasuma/Tozai Lines)
Opening Hours
8:45-17:00 (entry until 16:00) | Closed Tuesdays (open if national holiday, closed Wednesday instead) | Closed Dec 26-Jan 4 | Open daily in July, August, October, November
Admission Fee
¥1,300 for adults, ¥400 for junior/senior high school students, ¥300 for elementary students | Audio guide: ¥500
How to Get There
From Kyoto Station
City Bus #9, #50, or #101 to Nijojo-mae bus stop
20 minutes
From Kyoto Station
Subway Karasuma Line to Karasuma Oike, transfer to Tozai Line to Nijojo-mae
15 minutes
From Gion/Higashiyama
City Bus or taxi
25 minutes
Tips & Visiting Guide
Make the most of your visit with these helpful tips and guidelines.
Arrive Early to Beat Tour Groups
Large tour groups arrive mid-morning (10:00-11:00 AM). Visit right at opening (8:45 AM) for the best experience of Ninomaru Palace with fewer crowds. The palace can become congested, slowing your tour. Allow 1.5-2 hours for the full castle grounds.
Remove Shoes for Ninomaru Palace
You must remove shoes before entering Ninomaru Palace - wear clean socks and comfortable, easy-to-remove footwear. Slippers are not provided. The nightingale floors are part of the experience, so listen carefully as you walk. Photography is prohibited inside the palace.
Rent an Audio Guide
The English audio guide (¥500) is highly recommended and provides detailed explanations of the palace rooms, paintings, historical events, and architectural features. The guide enhances understanding of what you're seeing and the castle's significance in Japanese history.
Explore the Beautiful Gardens
Don't miss the extensive gardens surrounding the palaces, designed by famous tea master and landscape architect Kobori Enshu. The gardens feature ponds, stone bridges, and seasonal plantings. Cherry blossoms (late March-early April) and autumn foliage (November) are spectacular.
Special Night Illuminations in Autumn
During autumn foliage season (typically November), Nijo Castle offers special evening illuminations with the gardens lit up beautifully. This is a rare opportunity to see the castle after hours. Tickets sell out quickly - book in advance through the official website.
Honmaru Palace Rarely Open
The Honmaru Palace area is normally closed to the public for preservation. Only the gardens around it are accessible. The main attraction is Ninomaru Palace, which is always open during visiting hours (except maintenance periods announced in advance).
Best Photo Spots
Exterior shots of Ninomaru Palace from the garden, the impressive stone walls and moats, the ornate Karamon Gate with gold decorations, and seasonal garden views. Interior photography is strictly prohibited. The castle grounds offer numerous photogenic angles.
Combine with Nearby Attractions
Nijo Castle is within walking distance of Kyoto Imperial Palace (15 min), Nishiki Market (20 min), and the Karasuma/downtown shopping area. The Philosopher's Path and eastern temples require a bus or taxi. Plan your route to maximize sightseeing efficiency.
FAQ
How long should I spend at Nijo Castle?
Most visitors spend 1.5-2 hours exploring Nijo Castle. This includes touring Ninomaru Palace (30-45 minutes), strolling the gardens (30-45 minutes), and viewing the exterior grounds. If you're a history enthusiast or want to enjoy the gardens leisurely, allow up to 2.5 hours.
Can I actually hear the nightingale floors?
Yes, the nightingale floors (uguisubari) are very noticeable when you walk through Ninomaru Palace. The wooden floorboards produce distinct chirping sounds with each step due to special construction techniques. Listen carefully in quieter moments when fewer visitors are walking ahead of you for the best experience.
Is Nijo Castle crowded?
Nijo Castle can be crowded, especially during spring cherry blossom season and autumn foliage (late March-early April, November). Tour groups typically arrive between 10:00-12:00 AM. Visit right at opening (8:45 AM) or after 2:00 PM for fewer crowds and a more enjoyable palace tour.
Why is photography prohibited inside Ninomaru Palace?
Photography is prohibited inside Ninomaru Palace to preserve the delicate 400-year-old paintings and decorations. Flash photography and excessive foot traffic can damage the pigments and gold leaf on the walls and sliding doors. You can photograph the palace exterior and gardens freely.
Can I go inside Honmaru Palace?
No, Honmaru Palace is generally closed to the public for preservation and conservation. Only the gardens surrounding Honmaru Palace are accessible. The main attraction, Ninomaru Palace, is always open during regular visiting hours unless undergoing special maintenance announced in advance.
Is Nijo Castle wheelchair accessible?
Partial accessibility is available. The gardens and outer grounds are wheelchair accessible with paved paths and gentle slopes. However, Ninomaru Palace has steps at the entrance and no elevator, making interior access difficult for wheelchair users. A wheelchair-accessible restroom is available near the entrance.
Are there English explanations at Nijo Castle?
Yes, English signage is available throughout the grounds. The English audio guide (¥500) is highly recommended for understanding the palace rooms, historical significance, and architectural features. Some volunteer guides may offer free English tours on weekends, but availability varies.
Is Nijo Castle suitable for young children?
Yes, but younger children may find it less engaging since it's primarily historical architecture without interactive elements. Children must remove shoes in the palace and walk quietly. The gardens are more child-friendly. Consider visiting if your children are interested in castles, samurai, or Japanese history.
Can I visit Nijo Castle on a rainy day?
Yes, Nijo Castle is still enjoyable in rain since Ninomaru Palace tour is entirely indoors. Bring an umbrella for walking between buildings and the gardens. Rain actually creates beautiful reflections in the ponds and adds atmospheric charm. Fewer tourists visit in rain, offering a quieter experience.
What's the best season to visit Nijo Castle?
Spring (late March-early April) for cherry blossoms and autumn (November) for colorful foliage are spectacular but crowded. Early summer (May-June) offers pleasant weather with fewer crowds. Winter provides a quieter, contemplative atmosphere. Each season offers unique beauty in the gardens designed by Kobori Enshu.
Are there coin lockers at Nijo Castle?
Yes, coin lockers are available near the entrance for storing luggage and bags (¥300-500 depending on size). This is helpful if you're visiting between hotel check-outs or carrying shopping bags. Larger suitcases should be left at your hotel or Kyoto Station lockers.
Do I need to book tickets in advance?
No advance booking is required for regular admission. You can purchase tickets at the entrance on the day of your visit. However, for special night illumination events in autumn and spring, advance online booking through the official website is strongly recommended as these sell out quickly.
What shoes should I wear to Nijo Castle?
Wear comfortable walking shoes that are easy to remove, as you must take them off before entering Ninomaru Palace. The palace provides no slippers, so wear clean, comfortable socks without holes. Avoid complicated lace-up boots that take time to remove and put back on.
Are there restroom facilities at Nijo Castle?
Yes, clean restroom facilities are located near the entrance, within the grounds, and near the exit. All are modern Japanese-style with Western toilets available. Restrooms are not available inside Ninomaru Palace itself, so use facilities before entering the palace tour.
Can I eat at Nijo Castle?
A rest area near the exit serves light refreshments, tea, and snacks. No full restaurant is on-site. Eating is prohibited in palace buildings and most of the grounds. Designated rest areas with benches allow eating. Many visitors eat before or after their visit at nearby restaurants.
What should I not miss at Nijo Castle?
Don't miss the nightingale floors throughout Ninomaru Palace, the elaborate Kano school paintings in the audience chambers, the ornate golden Karamon Gate, and the beautifully designed gardens with seasonal plantings. Walk around the entire garden circuit for the best photo opportunities and different perspectives of the palace.
Is Nijo Castle suitable for elderly visitors?
Generally yes, with some considerations. The grounds are mostly flat with paved paths. However, Ninomaru Palace requires removing shoes and sitting/standing may be difficult for those with mobility issues. No seating is available during the palace tour. Allow extra time for a leisurely pace.
When are the special night illuminations held?
Special night illuminations typically occur during autumn foliage season (mid-October to early December) and sometimes during spring cherry blossom season (late March-April). Exact dates vary annually. These require separate tickets, sell out quickly, and must be booked in advance through the official website.
Can I bring a backpack or large bag inside?
Yes, you can bring backpacks and bags, but large items should be stored in the coin lockers at the entrance. Inside Ninomaru Palace, you'll carry your bag with you while walking in socks, so a small day bag is more convenient than large luggage.
What's the proper etiquette when visiting Nijo Castle?
Speak quietly inside Ninomaru Palace, remove shoes before entering (socks required), no photography inside the palace, don't touch walls or decorations, stay on designated paths, and be respectful of the historical significance. Following these rules helps preserve the castle for future generations and shows cultural respect.
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