Tokyo Castle & Imperial Palace - Shogun Walking Tour Discount Tickets

Get your discount tickets for the Tokyo Castle & Imperial Palace - Shogun Walking Tour, save up to 9% !

Overview

Learn about samurai and the 2,600-year legacy of Japan's emperors in a small-group tour of up to 10. An expert guide will uncover the secrets of Edo Castle, Japan’s largest fortress, never breached. [Highlights] ・Small group of up to 10 people ・The Secret Behind Edo Castle's Impenetrable Defense ・Japan's 2,600-year imperial system ・History of the Samurai and the Shogun ・Visiting the Japanese Garden Admired by the Emperor Please note: This tour is conducted in English only, Japanese language support is not available.

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

Language Offered

English-GUIDE

Itinerary

1. Sakurada Tatsumi Yagura
You can see a surviving turret from the Edo period and learn about the security systems that still protect the Imperial Palace today.
Duration: 20 mins
2. Kokyo Otemon Gate
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.
Duration: 10 mins
3. Constable Guardhouse
A small guardhouse once used by lower-ranking samurai. This is where we talk about who they were and why this spot was important.
Duration: 10 mins
4. Hyakunin Bansho Guardhouse
A large guardhouse where many samurai were stationed. This is where we talk about their role in castle security.
Duration: 10 mins
5. Obansho Guardhouse
A central guardhouse near the inner gate. Here, we talk about the samurai of higher rank and their duties.
Duration: 10 mins
6. Fujimi-yagura
An old watchtower overlooking the area. This is where we talk about its role and what made it special in the past.
Duration: 10 mins
7. Kokyo Sannomaru Shozokan
You can see a scale model of the former Edo Castle and visit a souvenir shop with palace-related goods.
Duration: 10 mins
8. The East Gardens of the Imperial Palace - Edo Castle Ruin
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.
Duration: 15 mins
9. Ninomaru Garden
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.
Duration: 15 mins
10. Tokyo Central Railway Station
We will conclude the tour in front of the ginkgo-lined avenue stretching out before Tokyo Station.

Inclusion

Guided walking tour

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

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 Emperor's residence is not open to the public.

There are no health restrictions, but please note that you will need to walk up steep slopes and stairs.

Supplied by Local Guide Stars

Reviews

4.9

★★★★★ ★★★★★
Based on 1279 reviews

Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor

5 stars
1228
4 stars
41
3 stars
6
2 stars
1
1 stars
3

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