Tokyo Castle & Imperial PalaceーShogun Walking Tour

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

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.

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

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

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

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

You can see a scale model of the former Edo Castle and visit a souvenir shop with palace-related goods.

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.

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.

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