Attraction

The Imperial Palace was the residence of the Japanese imperial family until 1868, when the emperor moved the capital from Kyoto to Tokyo. It is located in the spacious Imperial Park in the city center, which also includes the Sento Palace (used by retired emperors) and several other sights. The park, measuring about 1300 × 700 metres, is also a recreational area for tourists and locals, with wide gravel paths, lawns and groves; by the Konoe pond in the park’s northwest corner there are several weeping cherry trees that typically bloom for two to three weeks from late March to mid-April. Visits to the palace require signing up for a free guided tour (available in English) at the palace park administration — it’s best to come in the morning or book in advance.