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The Imperial Palace: A Central Landmark Surrounded by History and Modernity




The Imperial Palace in Tokyo, or "Kokyo" (皇居), is one of Japan's most iconic landmarks. Located in the heart of Tokyo, it serves as both a historical treasure and the living residence of the Japanese Emperor and his family.

Spanning over 1.15 square kilometers, the palace grounds offer a peaceful oasis amidst the bustling city. Surrounded by a moat, the palace is clearly separated from the fast-paced urban environment, creating a calm and serene atmosphere that contrasts with the vibrant city outside.

 Interestingly, the area around the palace is also famously known among locals as one of the best running spots in Tokyo. Its well-maintained paths and scenic views make it a favorite for runners of all levels, offering a roughly 5-kilometer loop perfect for daily exercise.

The French thinker Roland Barthes described the Tokyo Imperial Palace as “le centre vide” — the empty center — emphasizing how it functions as a symbolic and inaccessible heart of the city, reflecting a distinctive cultural notion of emptiness and silence within the urban environment.

While the palace offers a retreat into Japan's history, the area surrounding it is a vibrant hub of modernity. The palace’s location is strategically placed at the center of the city, with important landmarks such as the National Diet Building (Japan's parliament), Tokyo Station, and several corporate skyscrapers nearby. This fusion of the ancient imperial residence with Tokyo's dynamic modern skyline creates a unique sense of balance — a reminder of both Japan's long history and its modern prominence on the world stage.

A Peek Into the Past

The Imperial Palace wasn’t always in Tokyo. Originally, Japan’s capital was Kyoto, where the Imperial family resided for over a thousand years. In 1869, following the Meiji Restoration, Japan decided to modernize and move the capital to Tokyo. This shift symbolized the country’s new direction, and as part of this transformation, the Imperial family relocated to what is now the Imperial Palace, built on the site of the former Edo Castle. The move to Tokyo was a strategic decision to place Japan at the forefront of global change during the Meiji era.

The Palace Grounds: A Living History

The Imperial Palace is surrounded by stunning gardens, water moats, and stone walls. While the main palace is not open to the public except for special events like the Emperor’s Birthday or New Year’s Greetings, there are several areas around the palace that are accessible to visitors.

As one of the few areas of the Imperial Palace open to the public, the gardens can be entered through Otemon Gate—the main gate of the palace, which is shown in the photo at the beginning of this article (see map at the end as well).

  1. The East Gardens (東御苑)






    The East Gardens are the most famous and accessible part of the Imperial Palace. They are perfect for a relaxing walk, offering beautiful seasonal flowers, well-maintained lawns, and remnants of the old Edo Castle, including stone walls and moats.

  2. Nijubashi Bridge (二重橋)



    One of the most photographed spots around the palace, the Nijubashi Bridge is a double bridge that crosses the palace moat. It offers stunning views of the palace grounds and is a must-see for anyone visiting Tokyo.

  3. The Imperial Household Agency Garden
    Located near the palace, this garden is a quieter and equally lovely spot to enjoy nature and tranquility, making it perfect for reflection and photos.

  4. Sakuradamon Gate (桜田門)

    Another iconic spot is Sakuradamon Gate, one of the original entrances to Edo Castle and a significant landmark in the history of the Imperial Palace. The gate was the site of the infamous Sakuradamon Incident in 1860, when a samurai assassin killed the Tokugawa shogunate’s prime minister. The gate is a beautiful example of Edo-era architecture, marking the transition between the old shogunal Japan and the new imperial Japan.

Fun Facts and Cultural Tidbits

  • The palace is still a living residence, with the Emperor and his family residing there. Unlike many royal palaces around the world, it doesn’t have the typical tourist bustle, making it more about appreciating the serenity and history of the site.

  • Despite being the symbol of Japan's imperial family, the Imperial Palace isn’t just about grandeur. The gardens and surroundings reflect Japan’s deep respect for nature and tranquility, which are central to the country's culture.

How to Get There

The Imperial Palace is easily accessible from Tokyo Station, which is just a short walk away. You can enjoy a stroll through the nearby Marunouchi business district before heading to the palace grounds.



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Location: 日本、〒100-8111 東京都千代田区千代田１−１ 皇居

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