Imperial Palace and East Gardens 🏯🌿 | Walking Tour of Tokyo in a Day

Audio Guide Tokyo | Walking Tour of Tokyo in a Day

Imperial Palace and East Gardens 🏯🌿

Welcome to the Imperial Palace and East Gardens, a serene and historical oasis in the heart of Tokyo! Once home to feudal lords and shoguns, this majestic area now serves as the residence of Japan’s Emperor. The East Gardens are open to the public and offer a peaceful escape, where you can explore the ruins of Edo Castle, traditional Japanese gardens, and beautiful landscapes. Whether you're a history buff or simply looking for a quiet place to unwind, this spot is not to be missed. Let’s dive into the details!

1. Google Maps Link

Find your way easily: Imperial Palace and East Gardens on Google Maps

2. Next Subway Station Nearby 🚇

• Otemachi Station (Marunouchi, Hanzomon, Chiyoda, Tozai, and Mita Lines) – This station has direct access to the East Gardens entrance and is the most convenient option.
• Tokyo Station (JR Lines, Marunouchi Line) – A 10-minute walk from the palace grounds, perfect if you're coming from nearby shopping areas or just exploring the city.
• Takebashi Station (Tozai Line) – Just a 5-minute walk to the Otemon Gate, one of the main entrances to the East Gardens.

3. Good Places to Eat Nearby 🍜🍱🍵

After a peaceful stroll through the gardens, why not enjoy a bite to eat nearby? Here are some top picks:

• Marunouchi Building – This shopping complex near Tokyo Station offers a wide range of restaurants. From sushi to ramen, you’ll find something for every taste. Great views of the Imperial Palace from some restaurants! 🍣🍜
• Narisawa – For something truly special, this Michelin-starred restaurant offers a unique blend of Japanese and French cuisine, focusing on seasonal ingredients. It’s a splurge, but unforgettable! 🍽️✨
• T’s TanTan (inside Tokyo Station) – A hidden gem for vegan ramen lovers. Located inside Tokyo Station’s Keiyo Street, this spot offers delicious, plant-based ramen in a cozy atmosphere. 🍜🌱
• Palace Hotel Tokyo Lounge Bar – If you fancy a luxurious treat, this hotel offers an elegant space for afternoon tea or a light meal with a stunning view of the palace moat. 🫖🍰

4. Best Photo Spots 📸

• Nijubashi Bridge – This iconic double-arched bridge is one of the most photographed spots in Tokyo. It's a classic view of the palace, especially beautiful in the early morning or at sunset. 🌉🏯
• Otemon Gate – The grand entrance to the East Gardens, this gate is a striking piece of Edo-period architecture, perfect for capturing the historical side of the gardens. 🏯📷
• Ninomaru Garden – A traditional Japanese garden within the East Gardens, featuring beautifully landscaped trees, a pond, and seasonal flowers. It’s a tranquil spot for nature lovers. 🌸🌿
• Tenshudai Ruins – The stone base of Edo Castle’s former keep, this area offers a panoramic view of the surrounding gardens and city skyline, blending old and new Tokyo. 🏙️

5. Opening Times of the Sight ⏰

• Imperial Palace East Gardens:
  Open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (last entry at 4:30 PM).
  Note: The gardens are closed on Mondays and Fridays, as well as during certain national holidays, so be sure to check the schedule before visiting.
  Pro Tip: Arrive early in the morning for a peaceful walk and to avoid the crowds.

6. Additional Insider Tips 🧐

• Free Entry!: Unlike many other attractions in Tokyo, the Imperial Palace East Gardens are completely free to enter. It’s a great way to enjoy a beautiful, historic site without spending a yen! 🎟️
• Seasonal Blooms: The East Gardens are beautiful year-round, but they’re especially stunning during cherry blossom season (late March to early April) and in autumn when the leaves turn fiery red and orange (November). 🌸🍁
• Guided Tours: There are free guided tours of the Imperial Palace grounds (outside the East Gardens) offered in English. Check the official website for schedules, but it’s a great way to learn about the palace’s history. 🎧⭐️
• Biking: On Sundays, the roads around the Imperial Palace are closed to traffic, and you can rent a bike for free! It’s an amazing way to explore the area at your own pace. 🚴‍♂️

7. Hidden Gem 💎

• Kokyo Gaien National Garden – Just outside the palace grounds, this large open space is often overlooked. It’s a beautiful park with wide, open lawns, perfect for a picnic or a quiet break. You can also spot the iconic Seimon Ishibashi Bridge from here. It’s a peaceful spot that many tourists miss! 🌳🍃

8. Public Bathrooms Nearby 🚻

• Inside the East Gardens – The East Gardens have several well-maintained public restrooms conveniently located near the entrance and within the gardens themselves.
• Otemachi Station – If you're coming or going through Otemachi Station, you’ll find clean public restrooms here as well. 🚻