Tokyo Castle & Imperial Palace , Historical Walking Tour

4.9
(297 reviews)

2 hours (approximately)
Offered in: English

Edo Castle was the largest castle in Japan. Explore the Ruins of Tokyo Castle with a Local Guide. Learn About Samurai History and Japan’s 2,600-Year-Old Imperial System.

[Highlights]
・The Secret Behind Edo Castle's Impenetrable Defense
・Japan's 2,600-Year-Old Imperial System
・Visiting Yasukuni Shrine and Its Political Significance
・Visiting the Japanese Garden Admired by the Emperor
・Seasonal Beauty: Cherry Blossoms in Spring

What's Included

Guided walking tour

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point

Meet in front of Starbucks Coffee Kōkyo Gaien Wadakura Fountain Park Store. There will be a guide holding a sign that says "Local Guide Stars" Address: 3-1 Kōkyo Gaien, Chiyoda City, Tokyo https://maps.app.goo.gl/Caab3X6fhK6yaU4QA

End point
This activity ends back at the meeting point.

Itinerary

Duration: 2 hours (approximately)
  • 1

    You can see a surviving turret from the Edo period and learn about the security systems that still protect the Imperial Palace today.

    20 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 2

    You’ll see two massive gates and stone walls from the original castle. This is where we talk about how the design helped protect the shogun.

    10 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 3

    A small guardhouse once used by lower-ranking samurai. This is where we talk about who they were and why this spot was important.

    10 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 4

    A large guardhouse where many samurai were stationed. This is where we talk about their role in castle security.

    10 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 5

    A central guardhouse near the inner gate. Here, we talk about the samurai of higher rank and their duties.

    10 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 6

    An old watchtower overlooking the area. This is where we talk about its role and what made it special in the past.

    10 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 7

    You can see a scale model of the former Edo Castle and visit a souvenir shop with palace-related goods.

    10 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 8

    This is the former site of Edo Castle’s main tower. We talk here about why it’s no longer standing and what remains today.

    15 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 9

    A traditional Japanese garden with seasonal plants and a pond with koi. This is where we enjoy the peaceful side of the former castle grounds.

    15 minutes Admission ticket free
  • (Pass by)

    We will conclude the tour in front of the ginkgo-lined avenue stretching out before Tokyo Station.

    Admission ticket free

Additional info

  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • There is a security check to enter the Imperial Palace. Please do not bring knives or alcohol.
  • The main castle was destroyed by fire and no longer exists.
  • The Emperor's residence is not open to the public.
Supplied by Local Guide Stars

Show 1 more

Tags

Architecture Tours
Walking Tours
Excellent Quality
Best Conversion
Low Supplier Cancellation Rate
Low Last Minute Supplier Cancellation Rate
New Product
Short term availability

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Show more

Rating

4.9 Based on 297 297 reviews
5 stars
283
4 stars
10
3 stars
2
2 stars
0
1 star
2
from per person
Was {{currencySymbol}}{{ summaryFromPriceBeforeDiscount }}