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Imperial Palace East Garden: A Tranquil Escape in Tokyo

Explore the tranquil Imperial Palace East Garden, a historical oasis in the heart of Tokyo, offering a glimpse into Japan's rich past.

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The Imperial Palace East Garden, located on the former site of Edo Castle, offers a serene escape in the heart of Tokyo. Visitors can explore historical remnants, stroll through traditional Japanese gardens, and enjoy seasonal flowers, all free of charge.

A brief summary to Imperial Palace East National Gardens

  • Tuesday 9 am-4 pm
  • Wednesday 9 am-4 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-4 pm
  • Saturday 9 am-4 pm
  • Sunday 9 am-4 pm

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a lot of walking.
  • Check the garden's opening hours and closure days (Mondays and Fridays) before visiting.
  • Visit during different seasons to enjoy the variety of seasonal flowers and plants.
  • Baggage inspection is conducted at the entrance. Bringing minimum personal effects is recommended.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    The Imperial Palace East Garden is easily accessible by subway. The Otemon entrance is a 5-minute walk from Otemachi Station (Chiyoda, Tozai, Marunouchi, Hanzomon, and Mita subway lines). Takebashi Station (Tozai Line) is also a short walk from the Hirakawa-mon Gate. Subway fares typically range from ¥160-¥200 for a short trip.

  • Walking

    The East Gardens are a 10-15 minute walk from Tokyo Station. From the Marunouchi North Exit, walk straight towards the palace grounds. The Otemon Gate will be the closest entrance.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Tokyo. Inform the driver you wish to go to the Imperial Palace East Garden (Kōkyo Higashi Gyoen). Most drivers will be familiar with the location. A short taxi ride from Tokyo Station to the East Gardens will cost approximately ¥1,000-¥1,300.

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Discover more about Imperial Palace East National Gardens

The Imperial Palace East Garden (Kōkyo Higashi Gyoen) is a public park in central Tokyo, located on the grounds of the Tokyo Imperial Palace. This expansive garden spans 210,000 square meters and occupies the site of the former Edo Castle, the seat of the Tokugawa shogunate from 1603 to 1867. After the Meiji Restoration, the area became part of the Imperial Palace. The East Garden provides a unique opportunity to experience Japanese history and culture. Visitors can explore the ruins of Edo Castle, including moats, walls, entrance gates, and guardhouses. The foundation of the former castle tower (Tenshukaku), which was once the tallest in Japan, offers panoramic views of the city. The garden is divided into several areas, each with its own distinct character. The Honmaru (main circle) features a wide lawn, a rose garden, a bamboo garden, and a cherry blossom island. The Ninomaru (secondary circle) houses a beautiful Japanese-style garden with a pond, irises, and other seasonal plants. The Sannomaru area is home to the Museum of the Imperial Collections, which displays artworks owned by the imperial family. The Imperial Palace East Garden is open to the public and offers a peaceful retreat from the bustling city. It's a place where visitors can connect with nature, learn about Japanese history, and appreciate the beauty of traditional Japanese gardens.

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