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$20.22

$20.22

Overview

Step into Japan’s majestic past on an exclusive private tour that reveals the hidden grandeur of Edo Castle—the former seat of the Shogun that shaped modern Tokyo. ・Ninomaru Garden - Traditional Japanese garden featuring seasonal flowers: spring cherry blossoms, summer irises and autumn foliage. ・Edo Castle Ruins - Ancient stone walls, moat and massive Tenshu foundation reveal the scale of Japan's feudal architecture. ・Ōte-mon Gate - Historic main entrance with traditional guard house that blends old and new security elements. Note: This tour does not include visiting the Palace where the Emperor resides. Hear about Japanese culture and history at a leisurely pace in this remarkable green space that reflects the rich heritage of Japan. Dive into Japan's majestic past with a relaxing expedition.

Meeting and Pickup

Meeting point

Staff is waiting you in front of the fountain of Wadakura Fountain Park with sign board shows "gotcha". (walk 3 minutes from Tokyo metro Otemachi station exit D2 walk 10 minutes from Tokyo station Marunouchi central exit)

Language Offered

English-GUIDE

Itinerary

1. Sakurada Tatsumi Yagura

As one of the few remaining corner turrets from the original Edo Castle, this striking white structure represents strategic samurai defense, complete with loopholes and stone-drop windows. Just behind it lies the historic Kikyo Gate, where you can spot ancient family crests carved into the roof tiles. This exact spot offers a spectacular panoramic view, capturing the Tatsumi Yagura, Kikyo Gate, and the distant Fujimi Yagura all in a single frame. Contrasting beautifully with the nearby modern business district, it is the ultimate photo spot on the tour.

Duration: 5 mins

2. Ōte-mon Gate (Gate to the East Gardens)

As the main entrance to Edo Castle, this gate features a "Masugata" structure—a clever defensive trap designed by legendary castle architect Takatora Todo to snare enemies. Fortunately, it became a site of peace, where powerful daimyo (feudal lords) dismounted their horses to greet the Shogun. Inside this stone square, you will encounter the historic "Shachihoko"—a mythical tiger-headed fish believed to protect the castle from fire. This iconic gateway offers a perfect photo opportunity where Japan's samurai past and modern skyscrapers seamlessly meet.

Duration: 5 mins

3. Hyakunin Bansho Guardhouse

This defense line reveals Edo Castle’s formidable security. First, you will pass the Doshin-Bansho, where low-ranking samurai inspected entrants—look closely at its roof tiles to spot three hidden crests, including the Shogun’s hollyhock. Next stands the massive 45-meter-long Hyakunin-Bansho, manned 24/7 by 120 fierce warriors watching your every move! Surrounding it is the castle’s largest prestige stone masonry designed to showcase the Shogun's immense power. Walking this historic path allows you to experience the grand scale of the Tokugawa Shogunate’s ultimate stronghold.

Duration: 20 mins

4. Fujimi-yagura

As Edo Castle's only surviving three-story turret, this structure became the castle's main symbol after the central tower burned down. Famously named for its views of Mt. Fuji, it wasn't just a defensive lookout. In fact, the Shogun himself came here to relax, catch the summer breeze, and enjoy the distant Ryogoku fireworks display.

Duration: 15 mins

5. Honmaru Goten Rest House

This wide, open lawn was once Japan's political headquarters and the Shogun’s grand residence. The palace was divided into official reception areas and the mysterious "O-oku"—a strictly female-only world where over 1,000 women lived and served. Here, you can also admire a detailed scale model of the central keep that once dominated Tokyo’s historic skyline.

Duration: 15 mins

6. The East Gardens of the Imperial Palace - Edo Castle Ruin

This massive stone foundation once supported the tallest castle tower in Japanese history, reaching 58 meters before burning down in 1657. Today, the platform serves as a scenic viewpoint. From here, you can see the Nippon Budokan—the famous martial arts mecca that hosted The Beatles' historic 1966 concerts and became the ultimate dream venue for global musicians. Enjoy this panoramic clash of samurai ruins and modern music history!

Duration: 15 mins

7. Ninomaru Garden

Once the private residence for retired Shoguns, this beautiful stroll-style garden features a pond originally designed by legendary landscape architect Kobori Enshu. As you walk the serene paths, look into the water to spot the graceful "Hirenaga-Nishikigoi" (Long-finned Koi), uniquely bred at the suggestion of Japan’s Emperor Emeritus. It also showcases trees from every prefecture and the elegant Suwa-no-Chaya teahouse. This makes it the perfect peaceful sanctuary to conclude your samurai castle journey.

Duration: 30 mins

Inclusion

tour guide

Cooling towels for tours scheduled during the day

Exclusion

Gratuities

Admission to the Inner Palace.

Cancellation Policy

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

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

The tour does not go inside the Imperial Palace.

Supplied by gotcha

Reviews

4.9

★★★★★ ★★★★★

Based on 158 reviews

Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor

5 stars

152

4 stars

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2 stars

1 stars

Tokyo Private Tour: Imperial Palace East Gardens, Edo Castle Site Discount Tickets

Select your ticket

Overview

Meeting and Pickup

Language Offered

Itinerary

1. Sakurada Tatsumi Yagura

2. Ōte-mon Gate (Gate to the East Gardens)

3. Hyakunin Bansho Guardhouse

4. Fujimi-yagura

5. Honmaru Goten Rest House

6. The East Gardens of the Imperial Palace - Edo Castle Ruin

7. Ninomaru Garden

Inclusion

Exclusion

Cancellation Policy

Additional Info

Reviews

4.9

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