Imperial Palace East Garden and Edo Castle Walking Tour in Tokyo Discount Tickets

Get your discount tickets for the Imperial Palace East Garden and Edo Castle Walking Tour in Tokyo, save up to 9% !

Overview

Embark on a captivating journey through both ancient and modern Tokyo with our Walking Tour of the Imperial Palace. Discover the historic residence of the Shogun, now home to the Emperor of Japan. Delve into the rich history of the Samurai as you stroll through lush gardens adorned with seasonal flowers. Please note, while we won't enter the Imperial Palace, this tour promises a fascinating exploration of its surroundings.

Meeting and Pickup

Meeting point

Your Guide will waiting for you nearby of the Starbucks Coffee Kokyo Gaien Wadakura Fountain Park. Please do not be late. Our guide cannot make other guests to wait long for the late guests.

End Point

End point

The tour ends back at Otemon Gate, the main entrance to the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace.

Language Offered

English-GUIDE

Itinerary

1. Wadakura Fountain Park
Wadakura Fountain Park, located near the Imperial Palace in Tokyo, Japan, is a beautifully designed public space known for its tranquil atmosphere and stunning water features. Originally constructed in 1961 to commemorate the royal wedding of Emperor Akihito and Empress Michiko, the park was redesigned and reopened in 1995 to celebrate the wedding of the Crown Prince Naruhito and Crown Princess Masako.
Duration: 20 mins
2. Sakurada Tatsumi Yagura
Sakurada Tatsumi Yagura is a three-story watchtower located at the southeast corner of the former Edo Castle. It overlooks the moat and was an important part of the castle's defense system, allowing guards to monitor the surrounding area. The present tower dates from the Edo period and was damaged during the Great Kanto Earthquake of 1923. It was carefully restored to its original appearance soon afterward. Today, it remains one of the few surviving watchtowers of Edo Castle, showcasing the castle's impressive military architecture.
Duration: 15 mins
3. Ōte-mon Gate (Gate to the East Gardens)
Ote-mon Gate is the main entrance to the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace. During the Edo period, it served as the principal gate of Edo Castle, where only authorized samurai and officials could enter. The massive stone walls and sturdy wooden gate were designed for defense as well as prestige. Today, visitors pass through the same historic entrance to explore the peaceful gardens, offering a glimpse into Japan's feudal past and the legacy of the Tokugawa shoguns.
Duration: 15 mins
4. The East Gardens of the Imperial Palace - Edo Castle Ruin
The East Gardens of the Imperial Palace in Tokyo are a serene escape from the city. Once part of Edo Castle, they feature lush gardens, ponds, and historic ruins. Highlights include the Honmaru area with castle remnants and the Ninomaru Garden for traditional Japanese scenery. Visitors can stroll among cherry blossoms in spring and colorful foliage in autumn, immersing themselves in Japan's feudal history and tranquil beauty.
Duration: 60 mins
5. Suwa no Chaya Teahouse
Suwa no Chaya tea house was built by order of Emperor Meiji in 1912, in the Fukiage Gardens in the western part of the Imperial Palace grounds. The teahouse was moved to its current location in 1968. The name Suwa Teahouse refers to the Shinto deity Suwa, to whom there was a small shrine near the teahouse’s original location.
Duration: 10 mins
6. Ninomaru Garden
Ninomaru Garden is a traditional Japanese strolling garden located within the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace. It was reconstructed in the 1960s based on historical drawings from the reign of the ninth Tokugawa shogun, Tokugawa Ieshige, preserving the style of the Edo period. The garden features a peaceful pond, seasonal flowers, carefully arranged stones, and elegant trees. It is also home to long-fin koi, an elegant variety of ornamental carp known for their graceful, flowing fins.
Duration: 30 mins

Inclusion

English speaking Local guide

Exclusion

Snacks

Cancellation Policy

Check mark icon Refundable tickets

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

  • 100% refund if cancelled 1+ days before the start date
  • 0% refund if cancelled less than 1 day(s) before the start date

Additional Info

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Please note: This tour does not go inside the Imperial Palace buildings, as entry is not permitted to the public. The experience includes the Imperial Palace East Gardens and surrounding grounds, with historical insights and great photo opportunities.

Supplied by Localized Walking & Food Tours

Reviews

4.9

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Based on 685 reviews

Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor

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3 stars
7
2 stars
2
1 stars
5

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