Kyoto Imperial Palace
Cost
free
Attractions > Kyoto > Japanese Castles > Kyoto Downtown
About | Access | Hotels & Lodging | Hours & Fees
A large gate at the Kyoto Imperial Palace in Kyoto Japan
About
The Kyoto Imperial Palace used to be the residence of Japan's Imperial Family and the Emperor of Japan until 1868 when capital functions were mode to Tokyo in 1869. The palace was reconstructed in 1855 after it burnt down and structures were moved around repeatedly over the centuries. The palace grounds can be entered only on guided tours (in English or Japanese) held by the Imperial Household Agency (see below).
Kyoto Imperial Palace is within the Kyoto Imperial Park (京都御苑, Kyōto Gyoen) in the middle of the city (the Sento Imperial Palace is also within the park). To enter the Kyoto Imperial Palace, and a few other of the cherished Japanese areas, you must get permission and make a reservation with the Imperial Household Agency, (Japan 81) 075-211-1215. The Imperial Household Agency is also in Kyoto Imperial Park. You can either go there directly, call, have a clerk at your hotel call for you or ask your travel agent to handle things. Usually you do not have to make a reservation far in advance... the day previous to your visit is sufficient but if possible two or three days prior may be best.
Map of the Kyoto Imperial Palace grounds
Kyoto Imperial Palace circa 1902
Access
Closest Train Station: Imadegawa
3 Kyotogyoen
Kyoto, Kyoto 602-0881 Japan
Tel: 075-211-1215
Very short walk from Imadegawa or Marutamachi stations.
Hotels & Lodging
Recommended
View a full list of Hotels and Lodging in or nearby Kyoto Imperial Palace.
Hours & Fees
Hours: April to August: 9:00am-5:00pm | September and March: 9:00am-4:30pm | October to February: 9:00am-4:00pm | Last entry is 40 min. before closure.
Closed: Mondays (or following day if Monday is a national holiday), Dec. 28-Jan. 4 and possibly for special events.
Cost: Free
Information presented is based on the time it was created. There may be changes since publication. Please confirm information by visiting the Official Website before visiting.
Resources
Website: Kyoto Imperial Palace Homepage
