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
2,269 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
A very informative tour that was worth the price.
Bradley J,,Feb 18, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00This was an excellent tour. Our tour guide Blake was very informative and gave great information about the castle and insights that you would not receive by trying to view it yourself. If you are someone that actually really appreciates the history and wants to actually come away from the tour with a better appreciation than when you came in I would definitely recommend this tour and try to get Blake cause he cares about giving a good experience.
Wonderful tour of Imperial Gardens with Blake and Yayoi
adamvischio,,Feb 17, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Highly recommend this tour. Blake and Yayoi were awesome. I wish I took this tour earlier in my trip! They were so informative about Japanese culture even beyond the Imperial Gardens tour
Enjoyable tour and guide
jgal1210,,Feb 17, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00The tour with Izzy made the visit very enjoyable. Izzy had a lot of historical knowledge and was very personable.
Fun and interesting!
Sarah,,Feb 16, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00We had a wonderful time on our walking tour with Lasse! He was very knowledgeable about the history of the palace and made it fun and interactive. We would definitely recommend this tour with Lasse to friends and family!
We had a great experience...
Maria R,,Feb 13, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00We had a great experience on this 2 hrs tour. Tony shared his knowledge of the Japanese culture and of the palace, and we enjoyed listening to him. He is a great communicator! We recommend his your.
Great learning experience
Bruce G,,Feb 12, 2026
- Review from Viator
4.00Our guide was amazing. He gave us so much information about the history of Japan the emperor‘s the World War I World War II. It was fast and fascinating unfortunately we didn’t get to see the palace, but I guess nobody does.
Great tour with Jim
Deborah S,,Feb 11, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Jim was an outstanding tour guide. Lots of great information about Japanese history, culture and the development and evolution of the Palace and grounds.
Great visit to the ground
MacIntyre07,,Feb 10, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Thomas was great personable guide who unlocked the wonderful history of this place. I especially liked his infectious love for the culture
The guide for our tour...
Kyle M,,Feb 10, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00The guide for our tour Tony was extremely knowledgeable and friendly, offered great recommendations, and made sure the entire experience was enjoyable. Perfect length to not take up too much of your day.
The tour guide did amazing at explaining everything and was very helpful and generous!
Brandon C,,Feb 9, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00One of the best experiences ever. Explained every single thing down to the bone! Enjoyed every single minute of the tour.
From ¥3,400
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Operated by Traveling Tokyo