Kyoto Imperial Palace: Is it Worth Visiting?

Kyoto Imperial Palace: Is it Worth Visiting?

For over a thousand years, this was the heart of Japan’s power. A place of emperors, poetry, and profound tradition. Today, we’re exploring the Kyoto Imperial Palace, where history isn’t just a story. It’s still visible in every hall and garden. But is it still worth visiting if you can’t go into the buildings? Stick around whilst we visit the Imperial Palace and talk about why it should be on your to-do list next time you visit Kyoto. You enter the palace grounds through the monogate. The first thing you will notice when you arrive is that unlike a lot of historical buildings in Japan, you will need to go through security screening before entry, and you will need to wear a lanyard at all times. There is a list of things you can’t bring inside the Imperial Palace, such as megaphones, luggage, alcohol, drones, or camera tripods, just as examples. And the palace can close unexpectedly for visiting dignitaries or because the weather is turning bad. The Kyoto Imperial Palace was once the residence of Japan’s imperial family until 1869 when the emperor and the capital were moved from Kyoto to Tokyo. The Imperial Palace is surrounded by what is now known as the Imperial Park, which is absolutely gorgeous to walk through. As mentioned earlier, you are not allowed to go into the buildings of the Imperial Palace, but there are sections with doors open that you can go up to and look into the buildings. I actually find this to be a great compromise as the buildings and their contents are protected from potential damage from visitors, but visitors still get a glimpse into the Imperial buildings. Up until 2016, you could only visit the Imperial Palace as part of a tour. Free tours are still available in Japanese, English, and Chinese, or you can download the audio guide, which is available in several languages. [Music] Up until the capital was moved in 1869 to Tokyo during the Maji restoration, Kyoto had been the capital of Japan since 794. Known then as Hano, the current imperial palace was reconstructed in 1855 after it had burnt down. It had also moved around Kyoto repeatedly over the centuries. The current complex is enclosed by long walls and consists of several gates, halls, and gardens. The enthronement ceremonies of Emperors Tishu and Shawa were still held in the Kyoto Palace’s main hall. The emperor’s residential inner palace was located inside the greater palace, a large walled complex that included the ceremonial palaces, government offices, and the inner palace. On the occasions when the inner palace was damaged or destroyed, such as during the Onen war in 1467, the mansions of the aristocracy were used to provide temporary housing for the emperor. [Music] Getting to the Kyoto Imperial Palace is relatively easy using the subway. From Kyoto station, you can use the Kasuma line and there is two stations that are close to the Imperial Palace. The Maritamachi or the Imidagawa stations. Please note that the Imidoga station is closer to the entrance gate of the Imperial Palace than Maritamachi is. Admission to the palace is free and I recommend checking out the Kyoto Imperial Palace website for more information before you come. [Music] I feel it is very much worth visiting the Kyoto Imperial Palace. Firstly, it’s free to get in. Secondly, this is the closest you’ll get to visiting any of the Japanese Imperial Palaces. As whilst you can visit the Tokyo Imperial Palace grounds, the inner palace is close to the public. At least with the Kyoto Imperial Palace, you can see into the buildings and get closer than you would in Tokyo. Thirdly, if you are interested in the history of Japan, the Imperial Palace was the seat of power for over a thousand years and oversaw a lot of changes in Japan’s history. There is a lot of multilingual signage around that discusses the history. So, for any history buff, it is absolutely worth the hour or so walking the palace grounds and learning more. Lastly, much like Nij Castle in our previous video, whilst there is international tour groups visiting the Imperial Palace, it doesn’t feel as crammed filled with tourists like other parts of Kyoto. We visited on a Saturday afternoon, and apart from the tour groups that arrived around the same time we did, we didn’t experience any choke points of people, so you don’t feel rushed and you can take things at your own pace. [Music] for me personally. By the end of this day, I was in pain. We visited the Imperial Palace midway through our final week in Japan, and by Kyodu, we were doing the average of 26,700 steps a day. This day alone, we had been to Nij Castle as well as a general wander around Kyoto city center and I ended up with 28 and a half thousand steps. On top of this, I strained an ankle ligament a month before the trip. So, I was in an absolute world of hurt, but I kept going. So, regardless of whether or not you visit the Imperial Palace, just take my advice. Make sure you pace yourself with your walking and take lots of breaks. Make sure you stay hydrated and above all, keep enjoying yourself. [Music] So yes, it is absolutely worth visiting the Kyoto Imperial Palace and I hope this video encourages you to spend some time there as well. If you haven’t seen our video of Nij Castle, which is very close to the Imperial Palace, uh you can watch it here. Thanks for watching.

Step into centuries of Japanese history as we explore the breathtaking Kyoto Imperial Palace! Wander with us through serene gardens, marvel at traditional architecture, and uncover the fascinating stories of emperors and ancient rituals that shaped Japan’s heart and soul.

From hidden pathways and ornate gates to tranquil ponds, this immersive tour brings you closer to Kyoto’s imperial secrets than ever before.

But is the Kyoto Imperial Palace worth visiting? We break down everything you need to know about this historic site, from its thousand-year history to essential visitor information.
Whether you’re dreaming of a Japan adventure or love exploring world cultures from home, you’ll find inspiration, travel tips, and a dash of wanderlust in every moment.

Kyoto Imperial Palace website is an incredibly useful website for planning your visit: https://kyoto-gosho.kunaicho.go.jp/en

TIMESTAMPS
[00:00] The History of Kyoto Imperial Palace

[00:51] Visitor Information & Security

[03:06] Getting to the Palace

[03:37] Is it Worth Visiting?

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