Tokyo: Imperial Palace and Shogun Historical Walking Tour
Overview
Available languages
2 hours
Mobile ticket
Step back in time on this immersive walking tour through the Imperial Palace East Gardens — the former grounds of Edo Castle, once the largest and most fortified castle in Japan. With a knowledgeable English-Speaking guide, explore the ruins of Tokyo Castle, admire beautifully preserved gardens, and gain a deeper understanding of Japan’s 2,600-year-old imperial legacy.
Additional Info
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What To Expect
The East Gardens of the Imperial Palace - Edo Castle Ruin
On this guided tour, you’ll walk through majestic stone gates, past remnants of towering castle walls, and into elegant gardens that reflect the grace and power of Japan’s samurai and imperial eras. Stand atop the foundation of the once-mighty castle keep and imagine life during the time of shoguns and feudal lords. Wander through Ninomaru Garden, where seasonal flowers and tranquil ponds showcase the refined artistry of the Edo period.
What‘s Included
Historical Insights into Imperial Family
English Speaking Guide
Options
Tokyo: Imperial Palace and Shogun Historical Walking Tour
Reviews
2,569 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
We visited the Imperial...
MichaelS J,Apr 26, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00We visited the Imperial Palace grounds hoping to get close to the palace. While that was not possible, our walking tour with Manny, our tour guide, more than made up for this lack. He was so knowledgeable as we walked the grounds and filled us in on the history of the shoguns. The palace grounds are beautiful and worth the tour.
East garden tour
kimk67,Apr 26, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We had a great tour thanks to our guide Mayumi!!
Great experience having a tour with Mayumi
miglenag2026,Apr 26, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Mayumi is very knowledgeable and a great company for chatting about history, politics, and social and global topics so the tour was not only informative but an amazing experience in all facets. Clearly recommending this to everyone visiting Tokyo.
An inspiring afternoon walk with Mayumi
debbietJ8778HD,Apr 26, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Very inspiring and touching personal sharing. Really love that
Japanese/ North American fusion!
twiebe8,Apr 26, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00The tour was very insightful, and well worth the small price. Even though the tour can be self-lead, I would highly recommend Mayumi as a guide for the knowledge she brings. She combines the Japanese culture with North America knowledge to make everything relatable. Thank you!
Amazing!
naveedazizm,Apr 26, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Mayumi-san gave us a tour of the Imperial palace. Her knowledge not only about the palace but the Japanese culture was amazing! She made sure everyone was comfortable throughout the visit.
Lovely tour of the...
Mihir G,Apr 25, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Lovely tour of the imperial palace! Sved did a great job - he was polite, friendly and knowledgeable! Recommend taking this tour!
Best Tour Guide!
560jedb,Apr 25, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Mayumi was the best tour guide I’ve had yet! She was well versed in explaining the history of the Imperial Place and how it connects to societal, political, and cultural aspects of life then and now. As someone who’s learned a good amount of Japanese history, I learned so much just from listening to her. She’s a very charismatic person and is very open to answer any questions you have! A+ tour guide & I highly recommend having her as your guide.
Great informational tour
elisetwilson,Apr 25, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Brenden was a great tour guide a was very knowledgeable. Meeting spot was easy and the walk was all around the gardens. We only wish we could have actually seen the palace but it's not visible on the tour. Still a great tour.
Mayumi was amazing.
keiranc2026,Apr 25, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Mayumi was phenomenal. Did a great job explaining the history of the Imperial Palace grounds while also tying the current culture with historic traditions. Also made enlightening connections between Japanese culture and politics to those in America.
From ¥3,500
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Operated by Traveling Tokyo