Imperial Palace East Gardens in Photos
Escape the urban rush and step into the serene beauty of the Imperial Palace East Gardens. They offer a blend of history, nature, and breathtaking views right in the heart of Tokyo. Whether you’re a photographer hunting for unique shots or a traveler seeking tranquility, this hidden gem offers an unforgettable experience in every season. Oh yeah, the emperor’s palace is next door!
It is. The gardens used to be within the palace grounds. But, they became a public park in the 1960s. It has three distinct parts, the main entrance area, a large lawn area, and a lower garden. Unfortunately, few of the original buildings remain.
These gardens used to be within the palace grounds. But, they became a public park in the 1960s. It has three distinct parts, the main entrance area, a large lawn area, and a lower garden. Unfortunately, few of the original buildings remain.
Near the main entrance is the Museum of the Imperial Collections. It showcases treasures that have come down through the ages. They change several times throughout the year. While it is small, it is currently being enlarged. Three guardhouses from the shoguns’ time are in the same area. If you need a break, there is a kiosk.
Past the guardhouses and up the hill is the second area, the lawn. The lawn is the central area of the East Gardens. Here are the remains of the donjon of Edo castle. Walk its top, and enjoy amazing views of the Marunouchi district’s skyscrapers. In a way, it reminds me of the view from Shinjuku Gyoen’s English Traditional Garden. With the colorful Tokagakudo concert hall, the whole area is great for photos. If you need a place to relax, this is it.
Along the southern paths in this area is the site of Matsu-no-Oroka (the Great Pine Corridor). It was a corridor within the castle. It was 50 meters long and covered in pine tree motifs. Daimyo Asano’s attack on Kira Yoshinaka in 1701 took place there. That event began the 47 Ronin story. Unfortunately, all that remains is a marker. There is also a plaque that gives essential information.
The third area is the Ninomaru. It has a beautiful garden, pond, and trees from every Japanese prefecture. There is also the beautiful Suwana-no-chaya teahouse, which isn’t open to the public. This area is at the bottom of a hill, surrounded by walls and trees, and has a secluded feeling. It is the heart of the East Gardens. When the flowers bloom, it is colorful.
A Brief History of the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace
During the post-war period, the government decided to create a new garden in Tokyo. The side would be the eastern part of the Imperial Palace. Construction started in 1964 and finished in September 1968. It opened to the public on October 1, 1968. In 2019, the gardens attracted more than three million people.
Why do photographers like the East Gardens?
They like them because they are such a good place for photography. There is so much there to make anyone with a camera happy. It’s hard to make a definitive list, as there is much to see. But here are some of my favorites:
- Views of the lawn and Marunouchi skyscrapers from the donjon remains.
- Flowers for (almost) every season.
- Fujimi Tower (fenced off).
- Fujimi defense house.
- Marker for Matsu-no-Oroka and 47 Ronin story.
- Observation deck (for views of the Marunouchi district).
Notes
- The Fujimi defense house isn’t that interesting, BUT you can go inside. Through the barred windows, you can get a restricted view of Inui-Dori (Inui Street) in the palace. The street is occasionally open to the public.
- The observation deck behind the souvenir shop isn’t great. Yes, you can get some nice shots of the Marunouchi area over the trees that look nice. But you can’t see much of the ground (i.e., too many trees!).
- Tripods are not allowed.
When is the best time to go?
The East Gardens are seasonal. Many great flowers are in it. Whenever you go something should be interesting.
But if I could pick only one season, I would say summer. Why? The lawn area has Satsuki Azalea blooms. And in the Ninomaru, there will be more of them and Japanese irises. Color is everywhere.
Where are the Imperial Palace’s East Gardens?
Address: 1-1 Chiyoda, Chiyoda City, Tokyo
Here it is on a Google map:
Closest train and subway stations:
- Otemachi Station (Exit C13a): 5-minute walk
- Nijubashi-mae Station (Exit 6): 10-minute walk
- JR Line Tokyo Station (Marunouchi North Exit): 15-minute walk
- Takebashi Station (Exit 1a): 5-minute walk
- Takebashi Station (Exit 1a): 5-minute walk
Opening hours
- March 1st to April 14th: 9 am to 5 pm (last admission at 4:30 pm)
- April 15th to August 31st: 9 am to 6 pm (last admission at 5:30 pm)
- September 1st to September 31st: 9 am to 5 pm (last admission at 4:30 pm)
- October 1st to October 31st: 9 am to 4:30 pm (last admission at 4:30 pm)
- November 1st to the end of February: 9 am to 4 pm (last admission at 3:30 pm)
Closed Days
- Monday and Friday
- However, it will be open on national holidays and days other than the Emperor’s Birthday.
- From December 28th to January 3rd
- Whenever the palace deems it necessary (i.e. special events)
Admission costs
None, but the Museum of Imperial Collections costs ¥1000.
Conclusion
The Imperial Palace East Gardens are gorgeous. Its flowers and views will keep you entertained for hours. History lovers will also enjoy it. Once you finish, other places are within easy walking distance. By the way, don’t forget that art museum! Please leave questions and comments below.
Rohan Gillett
Rohan has lived in Tokyo for 30+ years. He loves photography and okonomiyaki. His camera will capture the entire city one day.
For more park articles, look at these:
External related websites:
- East Gardens of the Imperial Palace (official website)