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
2,696 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Imperial gardens stroll
FellowTraveler693396,May 14, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Well paced stroll around the imperial gardens- our bilingual guide Christian was very knowledgeable and approachable.
Beautiful walk around the...
xq4qp7jyc9,May 14, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Beautiful walk around the gardens with a glimpse into Imperial and Shogun life. If you can time with spring flowers would be amazing
Visit to Imperial palace
avani k,May 13, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Loved the visit which made it interesting with the guide we had with Christian. He also has a good sense of humour .
Great tour with Blake!
gabbi-correia,May 13, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Blake was great! very informative & humorous. would book with him again!
Good tour of the imperial castle
docviki,May 13, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Christian was very informative and good guide.
You can do it yourself
Sara M,May 13, 2026
- Review from Viator
3.00Probably one can walk the gardens on one's own...that's the sum of the tour for the most part. No castles or palaces to explore
Fun walk in the park with some explanations
Nicholas P,May 13, 2026
- Review from Viator
4.00Don’t expect too much for the price. It’s a stroll in a garden with a guide giving you some explanations
Great tour!
ozrenn2021,May 12, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
4.00Blake did a great job. Highly recommended!
Our guide Fendt, was an...
Cathy B,May 12, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Our guide Fendt, was an excellent guide! He was very knoledgable and helped us understand the Edo period at the Imperial Palace. We enjoyed our tour with him very much.
Worthwhile Tour
Mitchell B,May 12, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Cristian provided a nice historical overview of the Imperial Gardens, Japanese emperors, shoguns and samurai. Taking this tour is much better than just walking around the guardians by yourself.
From ¥3,500
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Operated by Traveling Tokyo