Imperial Palace Tour: Discover Samurai History with a Local Guide
Overview
Available languages
2 hours
Mobile ticket
Step into the heart of Tokyo and uncover the rich legacy of the Imperial Palace on this 2-hour immersive walking tour. Led by a professional guide, this experience takes you through the serene Imperial Palace East Gardens, once part of the historic Edo Castle, the stronghold of the Tokugawa shogunate.
Walk along beautifully maintained paths, past stone ruins, ancient gates, and iconic landmarks like the Tatsumi Yagura Watchtower. Along the way, discover captivating stories of Japanese emperors, samurai warriors, and the political power that shaped Japan’s past.
Highlights:
- 2-hour guided walking tour of the Tokyo Imperial Palace East Gardens
- Explore historic remnants of Edo Castle, including the Tenshudai and Tatsumi Yagura
- Small group setting for a more personal and interactive experience
- Learn about samurai culture, imperial history, and Tokyo’s evolution through expert commentary
Additional Info
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What‘s Included
Insights into the history of the samurai and the development of Tokyo
View a miniature reconstruction of the former Edo Castle palace
Guided walking tour within the Imperial Palace grounds and the East Gardens
Encounter unique koi from different regions of Japan and a variety of trees
What To Expect
Tatsumi Yagura, also known as Sakurada Nijū Yagura, is a historic two-story watchtower located in the Imperial Palace grounds in Tokyo. Built during the Edo period, it is one of the few surviving structures of the original Edo Castle, reflecting Japan’s feudal past. Positioned at the southeast corner of the old inner moat, it once served both symbolic and defensive roles. Though the interior is closed to the public, the tower can be viewed from nearby paths in the Imperial Palace East Gardens—a favorite for photographers and history lovers exploring Tokyo sightseeing spots.
Two-tiered Bridge (Ni-ju Bashi)
One of the most iconic views of the Imperial Palace, the double-arched Nijūbashi Bridge gracefully spans the moat and serves as the main approach to the inner grounds. Beloved for its elegant stone structure and photogenic scenery, it is a must-see highlight for visitors exploring central Tokyo.
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Imperial Palace Tour: Discover Samurai History with a Local Guide
Reviews
9 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Great Imperial Palace Tour!
Michael T,
Oct 18, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Alex is a great guide. Very informative and super friendly. Always made sure he answered our questions, provided historical facts and even provides restaurant dining suggestions. Amazing Tour
Imperial Palace and more
S4774PWlizo,
Oct 12, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Very enjoyable, both for the knowledge and the scenery. Our guide was generous with his knowledge and time. Highly recommend!
Imperial Palaxe
psmithj2018,
Oct 11, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Taku was a wonderful guide for our tour. He was well versed in the history of Japan and the castle. We were most fortunate to have him. The best tour we took in Tokyo !
Great time!
adampD9356VI,
Oct 7, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Had a fantastic time. Informative and with plenty of information. Guide showed up on time and was friendly and chatty throughout. The guide and tour never felt rushed and even though it was supposed to last two hours it went to more like two and a half. Excellent recommendations for food and other things to do in and around Tokyo too.
After a not-so-much start...
Paola A,
Oct 3, 2025
- Review from Viator
4.00After a not very promising start as I could not find my guide the follow up was very interesting
Imperial Palace Tour
Q9117CIvanesac,
Sep 25, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We had a fantastic tour with Julio. He made our experience unique and provided interesting historical and cultural insights. Highly recommend :)
great tour
324tatem,
Sep 21, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Haruto showed us Japan beyond the guidebooks. Every stop felt authentic, with stories that touched our hearts.
Wonderful tour
Compass24051103174,
Sep 13, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Amazing, very interesting, informative tour, not only highlighting the beauty of the imperial palace, but also the Imperial garden. Our guide was very friendly and helpful, explained the historical background, shared many fascinating facts and answered all of our questions. We are very thankful for your assistance ❤️
Great tour!!
rodcab13,
Sep 9, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We were looking for a tour in Spanish, but Naoki our guide spoke 6 languages so we could do the tour in both Spanish and English. Excellent tour, excellent guide!
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