Tokyo Castle & Imperial Palace - Shogun Walking Tour

The stories, the secrets, the smiles—only with a local guide.

Tokyo Castle & Imperial Palace - Shogun Walking Tour

Elegance in motion in a garden of emperors.

Where the Shogun’s gate meets the skyline.

Japan’s last　watchtowers, truly special.

A rare chance to discuss Japan's Imperial family openly and deeply.

A peaceful bamboo path hidden inside the East Garden.

So many pine trees… and yes, there's a reason!

Why do those stones have different colors?

Step through the same gate as the Shoguns.

Wanna know the secret behind the Imperial Crest?

Spring at the Imperial Palace, cherry blossoms by the moat.

Not just history — we talk about Japan today!

Old stones, big stories, and a fun guide to explain them.

Duration2h

Free cancellationFull refund up to 24 hours before

Instant confirmationYour booking is confirmed right away

TicketMobile or paper ticket accepted

LanguagesEnglish

Group sizeUp to 60 travelers

Overview

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.

What's included

Guided walking tour

What to expect

20m

You can see a surviving turret from the Edo period and learn about the security systems that still protect the Imperial Palace today.
Kokyo Otemon Gate
10m

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.
10m

A small guardhouse once used by lower-ranking samurai. This is where we talk about who they were and why this spot was important.
10m

A large guardhouse where many samurai were stationed. This is where we talk about their role in castle security.
10m

A central guardhouse near the inner gate. Here, we talk about the samurai of higher rank and their duties.
10m

An old watchtower overlooking the area. This is where we talk about its role and what made it special in the past.
Kokyo Sannomaru Shozokan
10m

You can see a scale model of the former Edo Castle and visit a souvenir shop with palace-related goods.
The East Gardens of the Imperial Palace - Edo Castle Ruin
15m

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.
Ninomaru Garden
15m

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.
Tokyo Central Railway Station
Pass by

We will conclude the tour in front of the ginkgo-lined avenue stretching out before Tokyo Station.

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point

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

End point

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

Additional 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.

Cancellation policy

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

Reviews

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