Tokyo Castle & Imperial Palace - Shogun Walking Tour

Name: Tokyo Castle & Imperial Palace - Shogun Walking Tour
Brand: Viator
Price: 23 USD
Availability: InStock
Rating: 4.9 (1694 reviews)

4.9(1694)2 hoursEnglishTokyo, Japan

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$23

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Learn about samurai and the 2,600-year legacy of Japan's emperors in a small-group tour of up to 10. An expert guide will uncover the secrets of Edo Castle, Japan’s largest fortress, never breached.

[Highlights] ・Small group of up to 10 people ・The Secret Behind Edo Castle's Impenetrable Defense ・Japan's 2,600-year imperial system ・History of the Samurai and the Shogun ・Visiting the Japanese Garden Admired by the Emperor

Please note: This tour is conducted in English only, Japanese language support is not available.

Guided walking tour

What you'll do

You can see a surviving turret from the Edo period and learn about the security
systems that still protect the Imperial Palace today.
20 min
Kokyo Otemon Gate
1-1 Chiyoda, Chiyoda, Japan
You’ll see two massive gates and stone walls from the original castle. This is where we talk about how the design helped protect the shogun.
10 min
A small guardhouse once used by lower-ranking samurai
This is where we talk about who they were and why this spot was important.
10 min
A large guardhouse where many samurai were stationed
This is where we talk about their role in castle security.
10 min
A central guardhouse near the inner gate
Here, we talk about the samurai of higher rank and their duties.
10 min
An old watchtower overlooking the area
This is where we talk about its role and what made it special in the past.
10 min
Kokyo Sannomaru Shozokan
1-8 Chiyoda, In the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace, Chiyoda, Japan
You can see a scale model of the former Edo Castle and visit a souvenir shop with palace-related goods.
10 min
The East Gardens of the Imperial Palace - Edo Castle Ruin
1-1 Chiyoda, Chiyoda, Japan
This is the former site of Edo Castle’s main tower. We talk here about why it’s no longer standing and what remains today.
15 min
Ninomaru Garden
1-1 Chiyoda, Chiyoda, Japan
A traditional Japanese garden with seasonal plants and a pond with koi. This is where we enjoy the peaceful side of the former castle grounds.
15 min
Tokyo Central Railway Station
1-9-1, Marunouchi, Japan
We will conclude the tour in front of the ginkgo-lined avenue stretching out before Tokyo Station.

Meeting and pickup

5 locations

Pickup detailsRead more

Meet in front of Starbucks Coffee Kōkyo Gaien Wadakura Fountain Park Store. There will be a guide holding a sign that says "Local Guide Stars"

Address: 3-1 Kōkyo Gaien, Chiyoda City, Tokyo

https://maps.app.goo.gl/Caab3X6fhK6yaU4QA

Good to know

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
There is a security check to enter the Imperial Palace. Please do not bring knives or alcohol.
The Emperor's residence is not open to the public.
There are no health restrictions, but please note that you will need to walk up steep slopes and stairs.

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.