Tokyo Castle, Imperial Palace, Shogun & Garden Walking Tour
Overview
Available languages
2 hours
Mobile ticket
Join one of Tokyo’s highest rated walking tours! Together we will explore the Imperial Palace and its beautiful Eastern Gardens with our super friendly local guide :) You won’t just hear about Japan’s history, you’ll feel it come alive through stories, humor, and moments that make this place unforgettable :) Our guides are known for their warmth, energy, and genuine passion for sharing Tokyo’s past, that’s why our guests keep calling this tour “the highlight of their trip!”
Additional Info
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
What To Expect
The East Gardens of the Imperial Palace - Edo Castle Ruin
Begin your walking tour by meeting your guide at starbucks in the Wadakuramon park! Together, stroll toward the grand main gate (otemon) of the Imperial Palace in Tokyo. As you step through, follow your guide on a captivating journey, circling the palace grounds/eastern garden! (The actual main castle does not exist anymore..BUT for a very good reason your guide will tell you all about on the tour! You will also get to see a miniature structure of how the palace used to look like in the past as well) Explore the history embedded in old soldier barracks, encounter special koi fish, and marvel at trees brought from various prefectures of Japan. Delight in the serenity of the palace while gaining insights into its past, including a visit to the old base where the palace once stood over 350 years ago. While the palace can be tricky to navigate, your guide will ensure you don’t get lost and help you take photos throughout the tour :)
Wadakura Fountain Park
Begin your walking tour by meeting your guide at starbucks in the Wadakuramon park! Together, stroll toward the grand main gate (otemon) of the Imperial Palace in Tokyo. As you step through, follow your guide on a captivating journey, circling the palace grounds/eastern garden! (The actual main castle does not exist anymore..BUT for a very good reason your guide will tell you all about on the tour! You will also get to see a miniature structure of how the palace used to look like in the past as well) Explore the history embedded in old soldier barracks, encounter special koi fish, and marvel at trees brought from various prefectures of Japan. Delight in the serenity of the palace while gaining insights into its past, including a visit to the old base where the palace once stood over 350 years ago. While the palace can be tricky to navigate, your guide will ensure you don’t get lost and help you take photos throughout the tour :)
Options
Tokyo: Imperial Palace // A Walk Through Japanese History
What‘s Included
Small group for a more exclusive experience
Learn Japan’s history while having fun!
No dress code, tattoos welcome
Guided walking tour of the Imperial Palace grounds with a friendly local guide
Visit to Ōtemon Gate, guardhouse ruins and Ninomaru Garden
We know the best photo spots (just ask your guide)
Stories from guide about Edo history, samurai era and modern Tokyo
Access to the Inner Palace (note: not open to the public)
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Reviews
389 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Imperial Palace Tour - June 26
JFD1985,Jun 14, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00A fantastic tour from the deeply passionate and knowledgeable Jim. The pace, the level of interest and friendliness were all absolute highlights. Thank you so much.
Guide Jim
sofialA7026UA,Jun 14, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Super intresting to hear about Japans and Tokyos history and culture, aswell as certain particularities in the garden. Our guide Jim's deep knownledge and engaging, helpful and charismatic attitude really made the tour an unforgettable experience and so enjoyable!
Imperial Palace tour
870jamaala,Jun 14, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Amazing from Jim it was very informative and friendly
Beautiful gardens and insightful tour!
Matt D,Jun 12, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00What a great walking tour of the imperial grounds. Beautiful gardens plus a dive into Edo history. Our guide Yu was a delight. This is a great way to spend a few hours in Tokyo.
Florida to Japan (Imperial Palace)
Michael S,Jun 10, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Nicolas Kumano was our tour guide and he was amazing. If you like hearing about the Imperial Palace and its history then this tour is for you. We are from Florida and Nicolas spoke English. He was extremely knowledgable of the Japanese culture. You will walk about 1.5 miles which isn't a lot. He also helped us get a taxi at the end. Thank you Nicolas!!!
Imperial palace with Shin
Q936EQalexism,Jun 10, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Our tour with Shin was fantastic! He shared so much knowledge with us on the tour. He even offered to take pictures of us. We definitely recommend for anyone touring tokyo.
Highly recommend!
316willd,Jun 9, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00The tour was great! I strongly recommend to anyone who wants a break from the bustle of areas like, Shinjuku or Shibuya. The garden was not overly crowded on the day of my tour, but definitely a worthwhile site to visit! It was relaxing and peaceful to stroll around the beautiful and peaceful imperial garden. Our guide, Shin, was an exceptional guide. He was articulate in presenting the interesting history of Japan and imperial family. I certainly learned a lot. Thank you, Shin!
Great tour
S6368BGangelap,Jun 9, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Shin was a great tour guide. Friendly, knowledgeable, and engaging. The tour was well organized and very informative. I really enjoyed it and would highly recommend it!
Wonderful introduction to Tokyo
brianc0stell0,Jun 7, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Our tour guide Jim was extraordinary! Great historical perspective with humor intersperced.
Great Experience!
travisk552,Jun 7, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Jim was a great a guide, fantastic overview of Japanese history
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