Tokyo: Edo Castle Ruins & Imperial Palace East Garden Guided Tour

What's Included

Meeting and pickup

Itinerary

• 1

  The Wadakura Fountain Park, located near the Imperial Palace, was originally built in 1961 to commemorate the wedding of Emperor Emeritus Akihito. Later renovated in 1995 for Emperor Naruhito’s wedding, its elegant fountains symbolize the Imperial legacy. A serene retreat in central Tokyo, it offers a peaceful contrast to the city's bustle.

  10 minutes • Admission ticket free
• 2

  Otemon Gate is the grand entrance to the Imperial Palace, once the main gate of Edo Castle. Featuring massive stone walls and a sturdy wooden structure, it reflects Japan’s samurai-era defense architecture. Today, it serves as a historic gateway, welcoming visitors to the palace's serene East Gardens.

  10 minutes • Admission ticket free
• 3

  The Ote San-no-mon Gate Ruins mark the outermost gate of Edo Castle, once a key defensive entry point. Nearby, the Doshin Bansho Guardhouse served as a checkpoint where lower-ranking samurai kept watch. Today, these remnants offer a glimpse into the castle’s strategic layout and samurai-era security.

  10 minutes • Admission ticket free
• 4

  The Hyakunin Bansho Guardhouse was one of Edo Castle’s largest security posts, where 100 samurai stood watch to protect the shogun. Positioned along the main route to the inner palace, it played a crucial role in castle defense. Today, it offers insight into Edo-period security and samurai duty.

  10 minutes • Admission ticket free
• 5

  The Edo Castle Tenshu Reconstruction Model showcases the magnificent main keep, once the tallest in Japan before it was lost to fire in 1657. This detailed replica highlights its grand scale and intricate design, offering a glimpse into the power and prestige of the Edo period.

  15 minutes • Admission ticket free
• 6

  The Tenshu-dai (Keep Platform) at Edo Castle is the foundation of the original main keep, offering stunning views of the surrounding area. While the castle tower no longer stands, the platform remains a symbol of Edo Castle’s former grandeur and historical significance.

  15 minutes • Admission ticket free
• 7

  The "Prefectural Trees" at the Imperial Palace is a notable spot showcasing a collection of trees representing each of Japan's 47 prefectures. These trees, selected to symbolize the natural heritage of each region, highlight the country's diverse landscapes and regional identity.

  10 minutes • Admission ticket free
• 8

  Suwa no Chaya is a historic teahouse located near the Imperial Palace in Tokyo, known for its traditional atmosphere. It offers a serene environment where visitors can enjoy Japanese tea and sweets while taking in the peaceful surroundings of the palace grounds.

  10 minutes • Admission ticket free
• 9

  The Ninomaru Garden, located within the grounds of the Imperial Palace, is a beautifully landscaped Japanese garden. It was originally part of Edo Castle's second inner courtyard and features tranquil ponds, bridges, and seasonal plants, offering a peaceful retreat in the heart of Tokyo.

  15 minutes • Admission ticket free

Additional info

• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
• Not recommended for pregnant travelers
• Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
• Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
• We are unable to enter the inner grounds of the Imperial Palace. Please note that as the Imperial Family still resides in the palace, the tour focuses instead on the stunning gardens and the historical ruins of the former Edo Castle, offering a deep understanding of its history and significance.

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