Tokyo: Imperial Palace and Edo Castle Ruins Cultural Walking Tour

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2 hours (approximately)
Offered in: English

Discover Tokyo’s hidden past and timeless elegance on this cultural walking tour that connects two worlds: the refined grace of the Imperial Palace and the enduring legacy of the Edo Castle Ruins.

Your local guide will lead you through the ancient gates, moats, and gardens that once shaped Japan’s political heart. You’ll learn how Edo Castle became the seat of the Tokugawa shogunate, and how it later transformed into the Imperial residence—bridging the samurai and modern eras.

As you stroll along the stone paths, you’ll uncover fascinating stories of power, tradition, and rebirth—all surrounded by the beauty of nature and the skyline of modern Tokyo.
End your tour with panoramic views from the Nijubashi Bridge, a symbol of Japan’s continuity between past and present.

What's Included

Your personal local guide

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point
Starbucks Coffee - Kokyo Gaien Wadakura Fountain Park
End point
This activity ends back at the meeting point.

Itinerary

Duration: 2 hours (approximately)
  • 1
    Imperial Palace

    In the center of the world’s largest metropolis lies the Imperial Palace, a serene oasis surrounded by lush gardens, ancient stone walls, and shimmering moats. Once the site of Edo Castle, this is now the official residence of Japan’s Emperor and a symbol of both tradition and continuity. The contrast is breathtaking: centuries-old gates and bridges stand peacefully among skyscrapers, reminding visitors how Japan blends the old with the new. The palace’s East Gardens are open to the public, offering elegant landscapes that change beautifully with the seasons—from cherry blossoms in spring to crimson maples in autumn.

    1 hour • Admission ticket free
  • 2
    The East Gardens of the Imperial Palace - Edo Castle Ruin

    Before it became the Imperial Palace, this area was home to Edo Castle, the grand fortress of the Tokugawa shoguns who ruled Japan for over 250 years. Today, its stone foundations, defensive moats, and imposing gates remain as silent witnesses to the samurai age. Walking through the Edo Castle Ruins is like traveling back to the 17th century—you can almost imagine the sound of armor clinking and the bustle of samurai retainers crossing the bridges. Many of the massive walls were built with hand-cut stones carried from distant provinces, showcasing the power and craftsmanship of the Edo period.

    1 hour • Admission ticket free

Additional info

  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
  • Specialized infant seats are available
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Regarding karaoke and food and beverages, if you would like to participate, please note that these costs must be paid separately from the tour guide fee on-site.
Supplied by Japan_guide_tour

Tags

Cultural Tours
Historical Tours
Walking Tours
Small Group
New Product

Cancellation Policy

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

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