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Imperial Palace East Gardens
Photo: Wikimedia Commons
poi · JP

Imperial Palace East Gardens

Getting around: About a 10-15 minute walk from Tokyo Station, near the Otemon gate entrance.
Hours: Typically 9am-4:30pm or 5pm (seasonal variation), closed Mondays and Fridays; free to enter.

The Imperial Palace East Gardens occupy part of the former inner grounds of Edo Castle, once the seat of the Tokugawa shogunate, now open to the public as a landscaped park with stone foundations from the original castle's main keep still visible. Unlike the main Imperial Palace grounds, which are largely off-limits, this section can be freely walked, giving a rare public glimpse into what was once the heart of Tokugawa power.

It's a quiet, well-maintained green space in the middle of the city, appreciated as much for the walk itself as for any single standout structure, since none of the original castle buildings survive above their stone foundations.

Imperial Palace East Gardens FAQs

Can I see the original castle here?

No structures survive above ground; only stone foundations, including that of the former main keep, remain visible within the gardens.

Is there an entrance fee?

No, admission is free, though visitors register at the entrance gate.

What days is it closed?

Generally Mondays and Fridays; check current schedule before visiting.

Is this the same as the Imperial Palace itself?

No, the main Imperial Palace grounds are mostly closed to the public; the East Gardens are a separate, publicly accessible section of the former castle grounds.

How long should I plan for a visit?

About 1-1.5 hours to walk the gardens.

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