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Imperial Palace East Gardens: A Stroll Through History

Explore Tokyo's Imperial Palace East Gardens: a historic oasis where Edo Castle ruins meet serene landscapes. Free entry, open to all!

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The Imperial Palace East Gardens in Tokyo offer a serene escape, rich with history. Formerly the site of Edo Castle, these gardens showcase remnants of the Tokugawa shogunate's power, including moats, walls, and guardhouses, providing a unique glimpse into Japan's past.

A brief summary to Imperial Palace East Gardens

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes, as the gardens are extensive and involve a good amount of walking.
  • Check the opening hours and closure days (Mondays and Fridays, except national holidays) before visiting.
  • Bring water and sun protection, especially during summer, as the area can get hot.
  • Pick up a map at the entrance to help navigate the large garden and locate key points of interest.
  • Be prepared for a security check at the entrance.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    The most convenient way to reach the Imperial Palace East Gardens is via the Tokyo Metro subway system. Take the Chiyoda, Tozai, Marunouchi, Hanzomon, or Mita subway lines to Otemachi Station. From Otemachi Station, it's a short 5-minute walk to the Otemon Gate, which serves as the primary entrance to the East Gardens. Subway fares in Tokyo typically range from ¥170 to ¥320 depending on the distance traveled [https://www.japan-guide.com/e/e2018.html]. Consider purchasing a day pass if you plan to use the subway extensively.

  • Walking

    If you are near Tokyo Station, you can walk to the Imperial Palace East Gardens in approximately 10-15 minutes. Exit Tokyo Station from the Marunouchi North Gate and walk straight towards the Imperial Palace. Follow the signs for the East Gardens. The walk is straightforward and offers views of the surrounding city. There are no costs associated with walking.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Tokyo. A taxi from Tokyo Station to the Imperial Palace East Gardens will take about 5-10 minutes, depending on traffic. The fare will likely be between ¥730 and ¥1000, considering the short distance and initial fare of ¥500 for the first kilometer [https://www.japan-guide.com/e/e2011.html]. Note that traffic conditions can significantly impact the travel time and cost.

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Discover more about Imperial Palace East Gardens

The Imperial Palace East Gardens, located in the heart of Tokyo, provide a unique opportunity to explore Japanese history and culture within a tranquil setting. These gardens occupy the site of the former Edo Castle, the residence of the Tokugawa shoguns from 1603 to 1867. After the Meiji Restoration in 1868, Emperor Meiji chose Edo Castle as his residence, renaming it the Imperial Palace. Opened to the public in 1968, the East Gardens span 210,000 square meters and incorporate the Honmaru, Ninomaru, and parts of the Sannomaru areas of the former castle. While the main castle buildings no longer stand, visitors can still witness the impressive moats, stone walls, entrance gates, and guardhouses that once defended Edo Castle. The gardens offer a blend of natural beauty and historical significance, with various gardens, groves, and architectural remnants to explore. The Honmaru area, once the heart of Edo Castle, features a vast lawn where the main keep stood. Although the castle tower was destroyed by fire in 1657 and never rebuilt, the remaining stone foundation offers panoramic views of Tokyo. The Ninomaru area showcases a beautiful Japanese-style garden with seasonal plants, including cherry trees, irises, and Japanese maples. The Sannomaru area is home to the Museum of the Imperial Collections, which exhibits artworks owned by the imperial family. Visitors can also explore the Suwano teahouse, the Tokagakudo (Imperial Concert Hall), and an orchard with classical fruit tree species. The East Gardens provide a peaceful retreat from the bustling city, allowing visitors to appreciate the scale of the Imperial Palace and the power of Japan's history.

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