Inui Street and Its Beautiful Autumn Colors
I love the Imperial Palace. It might be my favorite place in Tokyo. Luckily, a few events each year allow me (and you) inside. One is for the Emperor’s birthday, and another is his New Year greetings. There are more. My favorite is the autumn Inui Street walk. What’s that, you ask?
The Inui Street experience
Each autumn, the Imperial Household Agency opens a special route through the palace grounds, once home to the powerful Tokugawa Shoguns. For a limited time, the public can enter through the Sakashita-mon Gate to walk along Inui Street, enjoying the spectacular autumn leaves before exiting at the Inui-mon Gate on the far side.
For these few special days, you walk a 750-meter path right through the heart of the Imperial Palace grounds. The strictly one-way route leads you from the stately Sakashita-mon Gate to the Inui-mon Gate on the other side. While you won’t spot the Emperor, you’ll be walking on historic ground once home to the Tokugawa Shoguns. Security is present, ensuring everyone stays on the path and the experience remains serene.
When I visited in early December, the trees were just past their peak, but still stunning. While some ginkgos had already dropped their golden leaves, the maples were a fiery mix of deep crimson and bright orange, especially vibrant against the grey stone walls of the palace.
The walk through the palace is pleasant. If you dislike crowds, go on a weekday. Monday to Friday usually has fewer people than the weekends (but that’s not always true).
The best Inui Street photo
For me, the most memorable photo opportunity isn’t a tree—it’s the view of Fujimi Keep. This watchtower, which once served the Shoguns after a fire destroyed the donjon in 1657, now stands against the backdrop of the modern Marunouchi skyscrapers. Frame your shot with the branches of a nearby crimson maple, and you have the perfect picture of Tokyo: a seamless blend of ancient history and sleek modernity. It’s an amazing sight.
Inui Street Walk tips
- Beat the Crowds: If you can, visit on a weekday. Weekends can be busy.
- Facilities: Don’t worry, toilets are available along the route.
- Carry as little baggage as possible to get through security quickly.
- Never backtrack on Inui Street. The route is strictly one-way.
By the way, I have an awesome idea for this event. It would be amazing to hold it at night. Would the Imperial Household Agency be receptive to that? I wish I knew someone there.
Conclusion
The Inui Street autumn opening is a fleeting but unforgettable Tokyo experience. It’s a rare chance to step inside the historic Imperial Palace grounds and see the city’s past and present collide in the most beautiful way. I hope these tips help you plan your own visit to capture the stunning colors and unique views.
Have you been to Inui Street, or is it on your list? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
Date of Photos: 6 December, 2024
Rohan Gillett
Rohan has lived in Tokyo for 30+ years. He loves photography and plans to capture the entire city.
More Imperial Palace articles
External related websites
- Imperial Household Agency (official website)