The Imperial Palace (皇居) is located on the former site of Edo Castle - a large park area surrounded by moats and massive stone walls in the center of Tokyo, just a short walk from Tokyo Station. It is the main residence of Japan’s Imperial Family.

Edo Castle was once the seat of the Tokugawa shogunate, which ruled Japan from 1603 to 1867. In 1868, the shogunate fell, and the capital, as well as the imperial residence, was moved from Kyoto to Tokyo. A new Imperial Palace was completed in 1888. It was later destroyed during World War II and rebuilt in the same style.

The inner grounds of the palace are generally closed to the public. They are opened only twice a year - on January 2 (New Year’s celebrations) and February 23 (the Emperor’s birthday), when visitors can enter and see members of the Imperial Family.

Guided tours of the palace grounds are available throughout the year, although they do not include entry into the buildings. Tours last about 75 minutes and are offered in English and Japanese at 10:00 and 13:30, except on Mondays, Sundays, and public holidays. Reservations can be made in advance through the Imperial Household Agency, and same-day registration is also possible at the Kikyomon Gate.