Tokyo Castle & Imperial Palace - Shogun Walking Tour
Description
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.
Tour Options
Itinerary
You can see a surviving turret from the Edo period and learn about the security systems that still protect the Imperial Palace today.
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.
A small guardhouse once used by lower-ranking samurai. This is where we talk about who they were and why this spot was important.
A large guardhouse where many samurai were stationed. This is where we talk about their role in castle security.
A central guardhouse near the inner gate. Here, we talk about the samurai of higher rank and their duties.
An old watchtower overlooking the area. This is where we talk about its role and what made it special in the past.
You can see a scale model of the former Edo Castle and visit a souvenir shop with palace-related goods.
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.
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.
We will conclude the tour in front of the ginkgo-lined avenue stretching out before Tokyo Station.
Highlights
What's included
Traveller Ratings
Important Information
- 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.
Reviews(1,675)
Naz was an excellent guide! She speaks very good english, and she explained history of the Edo Castle / Imperial Palace, everything quiet well! Thanks for that! 5 stars! 100% recommendation!
Really nice and informative! Great tour guide! His name was Koo.
Koo was a wonderful tour guide and shared so much history and interesting information. He was friendly and knowledgeable and answered many questions.
Great guide! Very polite guide. Good information.
Koo was an excellent guide, informative and knowledgeable.
It was very fun with Riku. It was both very entertaining and informative.
The guide was very helpful, it was a fun and informative experience
My guide Tomo is knowledgeable , friendly and he made me feel I am hanging out and chatting with a friend.
Naz was the best tour guide! Her English is excellent, her knowledge of Japanese history is exceptional! She was so thoughtful, prepared with fans and sweets. We really appreciated that as the weather so extremely hot and humid. Thank you Naz 🫶
Thank you Riku for a very detailed and informative tour. We enjoyed it so much. ありがとうございます 🇯🇵🇯🇵🇯🇵
