Kyoto Gosho (Kyoto Imperial Palace)（京都御所）

From Ancient Seat to Serene Garden

The Kyoto Imperial Palace was the residence of Japan’s emperors for over a thousand years. From the Heian period (794–1185) until the end of the Edo period (1603–1868), this palace was the heart of the imperial court.

However, after the Edo period ended, the Emperor (Tenno) and his court moved to the city of Edo. At that point, Edo became the new capital of Japan and was renamed Tokyo, meaning Eastern Capital. This move marked a turning point in Japan’s history.

The current palace buildings and gardens were not constructed during the Heian period. Instead, they were rebuilt much later, in 1855, during the late Edo period. Even so, the layout and design still reflect older styles.

For example, the overall architecture follows the Heian-era shinden-zukuri style, although in a simplified form. Wide gravel courtyards, wooden halls, and a small pond garden create a calm and elegant atmosphere. The garden itself is a hidden highlight—perfect for a quiet stroll.

Visitors often enjoy the seasonal beauty here. Cherry blossoms bloom in spring, while vibrant autumn leaves brighten the landscape later in the year. In any season, the grounds offer a peaceful break from the city.

The Kyoto Imperial Palace is open to the public and entry is free of charge. However, you must join a guided tour to walk the grounds. These tours are available in Japanese, Chinese, and English.

English tours run daily at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. To join, simply stop by the Visitors Room, which is located on the right side of the entrance gate. There, you can register for a same-day tour.

Since the palace is located inside Kyoto Gyoen National Garden, it’s also easy to combine your visit with a walk through this large and peaceful park.

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Gallery

Good view on the bridge over the pond at Kyoto Gosho.

Directions

How to get to the garden

From Kyoto station, take the Karasuma line to Marutamachi station (丸太町, 4 stops, 7 minutes). From there, enter the Kyoto-gyoen and go to the entrance of the Sentō-Gosho in the center of the park.

If you prefer to go by bus, take the city bus 205 and get off at the bus stop Furitsu-idaibyouin-mae (府立医大病院). The bus stop is to the east of the Kyoto-gyoen, enter the park and walk in a westwards direction.

View Google Map (Google Website)

Address

JP: 〒602-0881 京都府京都市,上京区京都御苑
EN: Kyoto Gyoen, Kamigyo-ku, Kyoto-shi 〒602-0881

Official Website

Opening times

September & March 9 a.m. – 3:50 p.m. (Last admission) 4:30 p.m. (Closing time)
October – February 9 a.m. – 3:20 p.m. (Last admission) 4 p.m. (Closing time)
April – August 9 a.m. – 4:20 p.m. (Last admission) 5 p.m. (Closing time)
Closed: Mondays (if Monday is a holiday, the palace will close on Tuesday instead.)
December 28 – January 4

Admission fee

Entrance is free.

Facilities & Accessibility

Visits are possible in a wheelchair.
Wheelchairs with electric assist are available for rent. Please ask the staff.
There are restaurants and shops within the Kyoto Imperial Garden.
There are lockers for small and medium sized luggage.
There are two multi-purpose restrooms near the entrance and Kenshunmon Gate.
Parking is available at the paid parking lot at the Kyoto Imperial Garden. (https://fng.or.jp/kyoto/access/)
No pets allowed.

Best time to visit

Spring (Late March – April)
This is the most popular time to visit. The vast palace grounds are filled with cherry blossoms, especially around the tree-lined paths and gardens. The atmosphere is peaceful and elegant—perfect for hanami (flower viewing).