Imperial Palace

The Imperial Palace in Tokyo can only be visited with a guided tour. Apply for the free tour on the 1st of the month preceding the month you would like to visit: http://sankan.kunaicho.go.jp/english/about/koukyo.html. Applications are accepted beginning at 5 am, Tokyo time. Tours are given only Monday-Friday at 10 am and 1:30 pm and last 1 1/4 hours.

Be sure to arrive at least 10 minutes early. The Japanese are very punctual. You will be walking roughly 2.2 km so wear comfortable shoes.

The Imperial Palace has multiple buildings and is surrounded by a moat.

The tour groups are huge so stick behind the guide. You will be given an English audio guide--the Japanese guide will let you know which number to punch into the audio guide as you walk along the route.

The palace is surrounded by modern Tokyo.

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