Most travelers dread layovers when flying, but I've actually come to enjoy them.
31.01.2025 - 18:47 / lonelyplanet.com
Jan 31, 2025 • 11 min read
Dominated by the Imperial Palace and its vast surrounding park and gardens, this area was once the political and ruling heart of Kyoto (and, indeed, Japan). Now, it is more known as a tranquil and spectacularly green retreat in the center of the city, just to the north of the bustling downtown.
The Kyoto Imperial Palace Park is central Kyoto’s largest park by far. While it once drew dignitaries and the ruling elite, it now attracts a more varied crowd of picnicking families, weekend runners, and tourists taking in the sights. The Kyoto Imperial Palace was the seat of the imperial family for many centuries, while the neighboring Sentō Imperial Palace was a retreat for retired emperors. Both remain grand monuments to Kyoto’s historic importance, with fabulous gardens for visitors to enjoy.
While it is true that Kyoto’s main tourist attractions and most famous spots tend to be around the edges of the city, there are still plenty of things to see and do in Kyoto Imperial Palace and the surrounding area.
Visit the Kyoto Imperial Palace at any time of the year – it’s beautiful through all seasons. Most people visit during plum or cherry blossom seasons. On weekdays it is best to visit early in the morning when you’ll find fewer crowds. The weather will also be a little cooler in the morning during warmer seasons.
To best explore Kyoto Imperial Palace and the surrounding attractions, plan to spend roughly 2 to 3 hours. The free guided tours usually last about 1 hour, plus any additional time you spend strolling around the beautiful gardens.
Entrance to the Kyoto Imperial Palace grounds is free, and you do not need a ticket. Free guided tours are offered twice daily – you register ahead of time or when you arrive. You will need a valid form of identification, and you can register outside of the Kikyo-mon gate of the Imperial Palace.
No tours are given on Sundays, Mondays, national holidays (except when a holiday falls on a Saturday), afternoons from July 21st to August 31st and from December 28th to January 4th.
Depending on the time of year, weather and your itinerary, you’ll find that there are still many ways to get to Kyoto Imperial Palace.
Subway: Take the Karasuma Line (green line) on the Kyoto Subway and get off at Marutamachi Station (it’s just one stop north of the city center). From here, it’s about a 10-minute walk to Kyoto Imperial Palace.
Bus: Take Kyoto City Bus #9, #50, or #101 to the Imperial Palace (Kōkyo-mae) bus stop, which will drop you off at the palace entrance.
Bicycle: Several places to rent bikes are near tourist areas, like Kyoto Station. A bike ride to Kyoto Imperial Palace from central Kyoto would take about 10-15 minutes.
On Foot: From Kyoto Station or
Most travelers dread layovers when flying, but I've actually come to enjoy them.
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