Tokyo Castle & Imperial Palace - Shogun Walking Tour

4.9 (1,969 reviews) 2 hours Free cancellation

out of 5

1,969 reviews

4.9

The stories, the secrets, the smiles—only with a local guide. — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

Walk through under blooming trees. — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

About this activity

Learn about samurai and the 2,600-year legacy of Japan's emperors in a small-group tour of up to 10. An expert guide will uncover the secrets of Edo Castle, Japan’s largest fortress, never breached.

[Highlights]

・Small group of up to 10 people

・The Secret Behind Edo Castle's Impenetrable Defense

・Japan's 2,600-year imperial system

・History of the Samurai and the Shogun

・Visiting the Japanese Garden Admired by the Emperor

Please note: This tour is conducted in English only, Japanese language support is not available.

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At a glance

Duration: 2 hours
Confirmation: Instant confirmation
Ticket: Mobile or paper ticket accepted
Group: Up to 60 people
People per booking: 1–30
Guide: English
Operated by: Japan Guide Star

Ages: Infants (0–12 years) · Adults (13–99 years)

What is included

Included

Included: Guided walking tour

Itinerary

Stop 1

20 min

You can see a surviving turret from the Edo period and learn about the security systems that still protect the Imperial Palace today.
Kokyo Otemon Gate

10 min

You’ll see two massive gates and stone walls from the original castle. This is where we talk about how the design helped protect the shogun.
Stop 3

10 min

A small guardhouse once used by lower-ranking samurai. This is where we talk about who they were and why this spot was important.
Stop 4

10 min

A large guardhouse where many samurai were stationed. This is where we talk about their role in castle security.
Stop 5

10 min

A central guardhouse near the inner gate. Here, we talk about the samurai of higher rank and their duties.
Stop 6

10 min

An old watchtower overlooking the area. This is where we talk about its role and what made it special in the past.
Kokyo Sannomaru Shozokan

10 min

You can see a scale model of the former Edo Castle and visit a souvenir shop with palace-related goods.
The East Gardens of the Imperial Palace - Edo Castle Ruin

15 min

This is the former site of Edo Castle’s main tower. We talk here about why it’s no longer standing and what remains today.
Ninomaru Garden

15 min

A traditional Japanese garden with seasonal plants and a pond with koi. This is where we enjoy the peaceful side of the former castle grounds.
Tokyo Central Railway Station

Passing by

We will conclude the tour in front of the ginkgo-lined avenue stretching out before Tokyo Station.

Meeting point and pickup

Everyone meets at the meeting point.

Meeting point

Meet in front of Starbucks Coffee Kōkyo Gaien Wadakura Fountain Park Store.

There will be a guide holding a sign that says "Local Guide Stars"

Address:

3-1 Kōkyo Gaien, Chiyoda City, Tokyo

https://maps.app.goo.gl/Caab3X6fhK6yaU4QA

End point

Meet in front of Starbucks Coffee Kōkyo Gaien Wadakura Fountain Park Store.

There will be a guide holding a sign that says "Local Guide Stars"

Address:

3-1 Kōkyo Gaien, Chiyoda City, Tokyo

https://maps.app.goo.gl/Caab3X6fhK6yaU4QA

Using your ticket

Meet in front of Starbucks Coffee at Kōkyo Gaien Wadakura Fountain Park.

Your guide will be holding a sign that says “Local Guide Stars.”

Address: 3-1 Kōkyo Gaien, Chiyoda City, Tokyo

https://maps.app.goo.gl/Caab3X6fhK6yaU4QA

Cancellation

Free cancellation

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

If you cancel	You get back
At least one day before	100%
Less than a day before	0%

Good to know

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
There is a security check to enter the Imperial Palace. Please do not bring knives or alcohol.
The Emperor's residence is not open to the public.
There are no health restrictions, but please note that you will need to walk up steep slopes and stairs.