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
2,249 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Great way to make some friends and great tour!
Oliver D,,Jan 21, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Great experience. We got a great tour of the Imperial Palace and the grounds. Blake was our tour guide and he was very kind and informative. Definitely recommend this tour if you want a kicked back and fun tour of the Imperial Palace.
Brendan
cedricgI7199NI,,Jan 20, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00I was with a friend on a tour led by Brendan of the imperial palace. He did a great job explaining all of the gardens and answered all of our questions. Great guy
Unreal
dylanlJ4486AK,,Jan 20, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00The tour was fantastic. Educational and fun. Thomas was unreal
Imperial Palace Tour
lucass339,,Jan 20, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Brendon was a very nice and knowledgeable tour guide, I had a great time
Superb! Informative tour guy!
708winniec,,Jan 20, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Dylan is superb! He talked a lot history of the imperial palace , and Japanese history . He also pointed out a lot interesting facts about the architecture. Very knowledgeable and very fun trip . Highly highly recommended! DC
Really pleasant tour 🌸
federicaaJ1102TL,,Jan 20, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We were on tour with Miguel and it was a super nice experience, he’s super fun and the explanations are very smooth and clear, highly recommended ✨
Tokyo Imperial Palace Grounds Tour
E1379BMjos s,,Jan 20, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Miguel, our tour guide, was energetic and knowledgeable! I appreciated his ability to connect with everyone in the tour group and willingness to go the extra mile with his answers to our questions. I recommend him if you’re planning a tour.
Great tour for context of the grounds!
Will T,,Jan 20, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00A nice tour to provide context to the gardens and give an overview of the history! Be prepared for the cold if you visit in January! Miguel was a great guide.
Great experience
798cha mae,,Jan 20, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Our guide Blake was very nice, knowledgable and friendly. He answered to all the questions we had and adapted the visit rythm to our group
Imperial palace walking tour
chattpat1,,Jan 20, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00As someone who doesn’t enjoy guided tours , I really enjoyed the time spent with Blake. He was entertainingly informative and very knowledgeable about subject matter.
From US$22.00
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Operated by Traveling Tokyo