Tokyo Castle: Imperial Palace, Shogun & Garden Walking Tour
Duration
2 hours
Free cancellation
up to 24 hours before the experience starts (local time)
Cancellation Policy
Free cancellation
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
- For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the experience's start time.
- If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience's start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
- Any changes made less than 24 hours before the experience's start time will not be accepted.
- This experience requires a minimum number of travelers. If it's canceled because the minimum isn't met, you'll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund.
Last Minute Availability
Live Tour Guide
Highlights
- Small group tour with friendly local guide
- Learn Japan’s history while having fun!
- Visit the Imperial Palace grounds, Ōtemon Gate & Ninomaru Garden
- Peaceful ponds and koi fish, great photo spots, just ask your guide!
- Perfect for couples, families, solo travelers and first time visitors
Included
- Guided walking tour of the Imperial Palace grounds with a friendly local guide
- Small group for a more exclusive experience
- Visit to Ōtemon Gate, guardhouse ruins, and Ninomaru Garden
- Stories from guide about Edo history, samurai era and modern Tokyo
- We know the best photo spots (just ask your guide)
- No dress code, tattoos welcome
Excluded
- Access to the Inner Palace (note: not open to the public)
Meeting Point
Full Description
Join one of Tokyo’s top-rated walking tours and explore the Imperial Palace and its stunning Eastern Gardens with a warm, knowledgeable local guide. This experience brings Japan’s history to life through engaging stories, humor, and hidden details that make the past feel real.
The tour begins at Wadakura Fountain Park, offering scenic views of the palace moats, before continuing to Ōtemon Gate, where you’ll learn about the samurai-era defenses of the former Edo Castle. From there, discover historic guardhouses, castle ruins, and lesser-known photo spots most visitors never see.
Stroll through the peaceful Ninomaru Garden, known for its winding paths, seasonal flowers, tranquil ponds, and rare imperial koi fish—an ideal escape from the city’s bustle. Along the way, your guide shares fascinating stories about the Edo period and how the shoguns shaped modern Japan.
What truly sets this tour apart is the guide: friendly, energetic, and passionate about Tokyo’s history. They’re always happy to answer questions and share local tips and recommendations to enhance the rest of your trip.
Perfect for couples, families, or solo travelers, this small-group tour offers a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere with no dress code—everyone is welcome. Come for the history, stay for the stories, and leave with a deeper connection to Tokyo.
Know Before You Go
- Comfortable walking shoes recommended
- Bring water on a hot day (vending machines are available during the tour)
- Please dress according to the weather as the tour takes place rain or shine
- This tour does not include visiting the inner palace
- Small group with limited bookings, so book in advance to ensure your spot
- Important Notice: On Sundays, marathons are often held around the Imperial Palace, and taxis can’t always get close. If you’re coming by taxi, please arrive early, you might need to walk a bit to reach the meeting point.
Not suitable for:
- People with mobility impairments
- Wheelchair users
From
Per Person
Book with Confidence
Cancel for free up to 24 hours before.
Transparent Pricing
No hidden fees — all taxes included.
24/7 Travel Support
We’re Just a Message Away.
Why Tours Travel Finder
- Trusted by 50,000+ Happy Travelers, each month
- Lowest prices and last-minute ticket availability
- Explore and connect with 5,000+ experiences
- 24 hours in advance cancellation policy
- Need help? 24/7 expert direct call support
We've served 1 million+ guests and we are here for you
1 Million+
Happy customers from 35+ countries worldwide.
4.5/5.0
Average customer rating based on over 1 million reviews.
200+
Expert-guided trips with meticulous planning.
24/7 Support
We are always available to assist you before, during, and after your trip.
Nur Surroi
Booked: Tokyo Castle: Imperial Palace, Shogun & Garden Walking Tour
Safe, comfortable, and very enjoyable trip. Would love to travel again.