[2025 Kyoto Attraction] Travel Guide for Kyoto Imperial Palace (Updated Jun)

~Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture~Kyoto Imperial Palace ☑️Located in the center of Kyoto, a part of the vast grounds can be visited ☑️There are many buildings that convey Japanese culture and traditions, creating a solemn atmosphere☑️You can enter the historic palace! Kyoto Imperial Palace was used as the imperial palace for many years. Now it is open to the public! The lush gardens are soothing. It is a recommended spot that all Japanese people should visit at least once. -How to visit Kyoto Imperial Palace-Entrance gate: Kiyosho Gate Baggage inspection upon entry 📍Kyoto Imperial Palace 〒602-0881 Kyoto Imperial Palace 3, Kamigyo Ward, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture #0 yen travel #Kyoto #Kyoto sightseeing #japantrip #japantravel #Historic sites that make you feel history #Travel to touch historical culture #Historical buildings #Travel around Japanese culture #Travel with me

🌸 Cherry Blossom Viewing Spots in Kyoto 🌸 Arashiyama🌄: Take a kobushi (tramcar) ride through the bamboo forest, especially charming during cherry blossom season. Kamogawa🦆: Stroll along the river. Spring evenings are a poetic sight of cherry blossoms and lanterns. 🏯 Historical Sightseeing 🏯 Kinkaku-ji🏅: A shining golden Zen temple and one of Kyoto's most iconic landmarks. Kiyomizu-dera💧: Walk around its ancient wooden stage and enjoy a panoramic view of Kyoto city. 🍵 Cultural Experience 🍵 Wafu Experience👘: Walk in a kimono on the traditional streets and feel the atmosphere of the ancient capital. Tea Ceremony Experience🍡: Take a tea ceremony class and learn about Japanese tea culture. 🍜 Gourmet Exploration 🍜 Gion🏮: Visit traditional restaurants and enjoy the delicious flavors of Kyoto. Nishiki Market🛍️: Enjoy shopping and try a variety of street foods. 🌃 Nightlife 🌃 Pontocho🍶: Explore traditional bars and izakayas to experience another side of Kyoto at night. 🛏️ Accommodation Recommendations 🛏️ Choosing Where to Stay🏨: It's convenient to choose a hotel or a traditional Japanese inn close to the city center. 💡 Tips 💡 Best Travel Time📅: Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are the best times to visit. Transportation Advice🚇: Buy a one-day or multi-day bus card and travel freely around the city.

#fallishere The Kyoto Imperial Palace((京都御所, Kyōto Gosho) ) is a historical landmark in Kyoto, It was the Imperial Family’s residence until 1868. This stunning palace is nestled within the Kyoto Gyeon National Park (京都御苑), an attractive park in the center of the city. The palace exudes an air of timeless elegance, showcasing traditional Japanese architecture at its finest. Operating hours: Wednesday to Sunday from 9am - 3.20pm, closed on Monday & Tuesday. Admission is FREE! The Kyoto Imperial Palace is a short subway ride from Kyoto Station along thei Karasuma Subway Line. Get off at Imadegawa Station (10 minutes, 260 yen). Imadegawa Station is closer to the entrance gate. #mytripvlog#awesomepic #timetotravel

Imagine the ancient towers of Kyoto towering from the top of the mountains as giant guardians as night falls, and the lanterns under the starry sky as lit firebugs, adding infinite romance and mystery to the night. Here is a city that hides the glamour of the ancient past. Climbing up the ancient pagoda is like travelling back in time. You will witness the vicissitudes and legends of history, transmitting a mysterious power from each stone brick. Gazing at the crown on top of the pagoda, it's as if you can feel the magic of the sunrise hour when it first shines on this ancient capital. In the evening, as the sun fades away, Kyoto has its moment of true magic. Stepping into the night, the entire city is surrounded by lights lit up like a starry sky. Strolling through the streets at night, it's as if time has been frozen, and there are different stories waiting to be discovered in every corner of the city. The warm glow of the lanterns illuminates the entire street as if leading you down a mysterious path. Walk with them and feel the blend of history and modernity. Whether it's a traditional red lantern or a modern neon sign, the city's unique charm and energy is reflected.Here, mystery meets romance and you can get lost in history. And most importantly, in Kyoto, you can find a return to inner peace and tranquillity. 🌌 This night, Kyoto awaits you! Come and feel the magic of this ancient city and the mysterious impact of those ancient pagodas, night views and lanterns! ✨🌃 Bring your curiosity and sense of discovery and come explore the wonders of this ancient city! Kyoto, waiting for you to unveil the charm of the ancient past! 🔍🔮

To truly appreciate the vibrant beauty of autumn leaves in Japan, Kyoto Prefecture is a must-visit destination.🇯🇵🍁 The combination of traditional kimono attire, serene temples, stunning architecture, and the vivid colors of maple leaves makes for an unforgettable experience.😉 
🪧 2023 Kyoto Autumn Leaves Frontline Report
Kyoto offers an abundance of places to enjoy autumn foliage, from the serene mountains to the bustling flatlands. This extended viewing period allows you to catch the breathtaking transformation of nature. The prime time for leaf-viewing typically falls between late November and early December. 
💡 Recommended Autumn Leaves Viewing Spots:
1. Kiyomizu Temple🍁 (November 24th to December 7th)
 - Famous for its "Kiyomizu Stage" with panoramic views of crimson maple leaves.
 - Don't miss the enchanting evening illumination event ✨ (October 21, 2023, to December 10, 2023; 17:00-21:30). 
2. Arashiyama🌿 (November 23rd to December 7th)
 - One of Japan's top three autumn foliage spots.
 - Choose between the Arashiyama Scenic Railway or the Hozugawa River Boat for leaf-viewing.
 - Experience the special "Arashiyama Maple Leaf Festival" 🍁 on the second Sunday of November. 
3. Kifune Shrine 🍂 (November 19th to December 1st)
 - Over 1600 years of history and a stunning autumn landscape make this a must-visit.
 - Witness the "Kifune Momiji Toro" festival 🏮 in 2023 (November 3rd to November 26th). 
4. Rurikoin Temple✨ (November 20th to November 30th)
 - A place where the interplay of light and shadows with red leaves creates a mesmerizing world.
 - Booking for 2023 available from November 1st to December 3rd. 
5. Kitano Tenmangu Shrine ⛩️
 - Explore the "Godoin Maple Leaf Garden" 🍁 and the picturesque "Uguisu Bridge" 🌉 for exceptional leaf-viewing. 
6. Kodaiji Temple ⛩️ 
7. Eikando Temple🍁
 - Renowned as Kyoto's number one spot for autumn leaves.
 - Explore the "Release Pond" 🏞️ within the temple grounds, known as the "Temple of the Maple Leaves." 
8. Bishamon-do Temple 🍂
 - A tranquil and secluded spot for viewing autumn leaves, offering a serene atmosphere. 
9. Kyoto Imperial Palace Gardens 🏰 
10. Daigoji Temple ⛩️ 
11. Philosopher's Path 🚶♂️ 
Enjoy Your Autumn Leaf Viewing in Kyoto! 🍁

Visited in July 2023 *Kyoto Imperial Palace Inside Kyoto Gyoen, Kamigyo Ward, Kyoto City Get off at the subway "Imadegawa" station, about 5 minutes on foot Get off at the city bus "Karasuma Imadegawa", about 5 minutes on foot It is located in the central northern part of Kyoto Gyoen (about 250m east-west, about 450m north-south) and is a building in a wide area surrounded by a clear stream ditch. The current building was rebuilt in 1855 at the end of the Edo period, and some parts are modeled after the ancient system of the Heian period✨ The Imperial Palace has six gates on the east-west, north-south, and Shishinden, where successive emperors ascended to the throne, and also the Empress's Tsunegoten on the north side☺️ And in front of the Kogosho, there is an elegant garden with a large pond✨ You enter and exit through the Seisho Gate, and at that time you will be inspected for your belongings and receive a strap to enter😊 It's free to view, so be sure to check the visiting days before visiting🎵 #KyotoTourism#777 #KyotoTrip #Kyoto #Kyoto Imperial Palace #Free Spots #Kyoto Walking Tour

I found this restaurant when I was walking around the area after getting hungry after a walk around the Kyoto Imperial Palace. This izakaya was renovated from an old house, and you can feel the old-fashioned Japanese houses here and there. The atmosphere of drinking at the U-shaped counter is also nice. You can eat delicious yakitori while feeling the good old Japanese atmosphere rather than Kyoto. Although it is a popular restaurant, the location also gives it a hidden feel, which I liked. Many restaurants around here are closed on Sundays, but this restaurant is open until 11pm on Sundays. Lunch is also a great deal. Orders stop at 1pm, so I recommend going early. 672-2 Seimei-cho, Chuo-ku, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture 604-0951 Near the Kyoto Imperial Palace. #DomesticTravel #Kyoto

#KyotoImperial Palace The cherry blossoms are white and pink when they first bloom I knew I was going in mid-March, before the cherry blossom season, so the chance of seeing the cherry blossoms was slim. However, after going to Kyoto Imperial Palace, I was about to walk back to the parking lot. I saw a sea of ​​pink and white flowers in the distance (although I can see a bit sparse from a distance). But as I walked over, I saw that there were many that had begun to bloom, and there were many people taking pictures ~ I'm very lucky this time🌸 I saw a little, not all open but happy enough, I imagine it will be opened very often later, it must be spectacular! 📍Kyoto Imperial Palace 🚗Driving Guide: Parking Parking✅ Remember that there are two parking spaces in the park, the main parking lot and the "Qingheyuan" parking lot. See Google Map's editor, see the rating is quite good to park in the "Qing Heyuan" parking lot, less parking space but very good parking, more seats, but to the main entrance walk a long way (15mins) round trip really tired😂 🤣 To get closer to the main entrance, remember to park in the parking lot of Kyoto Imperial Palace on the other side - it should be a 5-minute walk away, although there are many cars, but the parking lot is large. 谷歌搜索： Kyotogyoennakatachiurinishi Parking Lot 💰: First 3 hours Total 800yen, maximum material cost 1200yen. #DrivingTour #Kyoto #Japan #Japantravel #Kyoto #japan #hkig

Even though I live in Kyoto, I have never been there, so I decided to go! The Kyoto Imperial Palace has been the residence of successive emperors from Emperor Komyo to Emperor Meiji, and is an imperial property. ✨ I was able to spend a relaxing time there! If you are visiting as a tourist, please check it out. 🙂 3 Kyoto Gyoen, Kamigyo Ward, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture 602-0881 #KyotoTourism#KyotoImperialPalace

#KyotoImperialPalace #KyotoTourism #KyotoTrip #BreathtakingView #Garden #WesternJapan Kyoto Imperial Palace last fall. I went to the Kyoto Imperial Palace for the first time on a trip in 2022 and was impressed by the beauty of the palace garden. In particular, the vast pond was surrounded by lush trees, and large silver carp were swimming in the pond. As I continued walking, I came across a bridge over a stream, and I felt the beauty of each and every stone, large and small. The deep green of the trees was reflected on the surface of the water, creating a sophisticated beauty unique to Japan.

Kyoto Gyoen was the residence of the emperor in Kyoto before Japan moved its capital to Tokyo. It is of great significance in Japanese history. It is located in Kamigyo-ku, Kyoto City. It is not a long drive from Kyoto Station. If you take the subway Karasuma Line to "Marutamachi Station" and use Exit 1, it only takes about 1 minute to walk. Kyoto Imperial Garden includes the Kyoto Imperial Palace and the surrounding Imperial Garden area. The latter is a park where you can walk around and is free to visit. During the flowering period every spring, numerous cherry blossoms bloom one after another in the park. The park is awash in peach and pink, which is quite beautiful. It is a popular cherry blossom viewing spot in Kyoto. #春日韩 Cherry Blossoms #cherry blossoms 🌸

Kyoto Gyoen is a national park that includes the Kyoto Imperial Palace, Kyoto Sento Imperial Palace, Kyoto Omiya Imperial Palace, and more. During the Edo period, it was a town of nobles with over 200 mansions of various sizes. It is now a place of relaxation for citizens, but the modern buildings are skillfully hidden by trees, making it feel as if you have traveled back in time to the Heian period. 📌 Kyoto Gyoen, Kamigyo Ward, Kyoto City, 602-8611 #KyotoTourism #KyotoImperialPalace #PlaceofRest

●Name SASAYAIORI+ Kyoto Gyoen ●Access 〠3 Kyoto Gyoen, Kamigyo Ward, Kyoto City 🚗Use nearby parking ●Points A new style of Kyoto confectionery Sasaya Iori‼️ Opened a new store in Kyoto Gyoen as a new initiative This shop has a wonderful space design that blends in with the nature of Kyoto Gyoen Speaking of Sasaya, they are famous for their dorayaki, but we had their monaka The taste and atmosphere are perfect after a long walk We visited on October 14th, but the signs of autumn are yet to come The best time to see the autumn leaves in Kyoto will be around November 20th to 25th🍁 #AutumnTravel #AutumnLeafSpots

●Name Kyoto Imperial Palace ●Access 〠Kyoto Gyoen 3, Kamigyo Ward, Kyoto City 🚗Use nearby parking ●Points The Kyoto Imperial Palace in Kyoto Gyoen has resumed public viewing since October‼️ When the leaves change color, the inner garden is beautifully colored🍁 In addition, the fact that admission to the palace is free is a great thing for tourists😊 Guided tours are also held four times a day The garden has a sense of scale that cannot be felt from the outside, and it is carefully maintained, making it a very worthwhile visit I visited on October 14th, but the signs of autumn are yet to come The autumn leaves in Kyoto will be at their best from around November 20th to 25th🍁 #Autumn trip #Autumn leaves spots

●Name Kyoto Gyoen Nakadachiuri Rest Area ●Access 〠Kyoto Gyoen 3, Kamigyo Ward, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture 🚗Use nearby parking ●Points Located on the north side of Nakadachiuri Gate of Kyoto Gyoen, not far from the entrance to the Imperial Palace A very beautiful and comfortable rest area surrounded by the trees of the Imperial Palace Kotara was renovated in 2019, but a rest area was opened on the east side this year in 2022 You can purchase food, souvenirs, etc., and there are plenty of chairs to rest in The restrooms are also very clean, so you can feel at ease I visited on October 14th, but the signs of autumn are yet to come The autumn leaves in Kyoto will be at their best from around November 20th to 25th 🍁 #Autumn Trip #Autumn Leaves Spots

#KyotoTrip On the way back from a trip to Kobe, we took a detour to the Kyoto Imperial Palace 💫 I had always wanted to go to the Kyoto Imperial Palace, but I missed it on my school trip in elementary school, so I was glad I had this opportunity 😉 Maybe it was because we went quite late, but there were hardly any people there, so we felt like we were the only ones there on the vast grounds 🙌 It was rich in nature and had an atmosphere that made me lose track of time 💫 I thought that if I lived in Kyoto, I would come here every day for a walk, but it took me an hour to walk around the whole place 😂 I had a wonderful time ✨ #SupportTourism #WesternJapan #SummerShortTrip #HistoricalRelics #AmazingViews #SummerWeekendTrip #trip2022 #Kyoto #AmazingNature #KyotoTrip

amazing scenery breathtaking views kyoto japan 😍😍😍######

#gw2022jp Kyoto Gyoen, Kyoto Imperial Palace. There are many gravel roads, and you can't enter the important places, so it's pretty empty. However, I like looking at the large, old trees, so I think it's a good park. The pines in particular are magnificent, and I like looking at the roots of trees, so it was great. You can stroll around quietly.

Kyoto SAKURA Cherry Blossoms I took a stroll around Kyoto Gyoen! When you think of Kyoto, you think of cherry blossoms, and when you think of cherry blossoms, you think of Kyoto! So, I came to Kyoto! This time, I took a stroll around the vast Kyoto Gyoen to see the cherry blossoms! ✅Kyoto Gyoen ✅Kyoto Gyoen 3, Kamigyo Ward, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture It's so big, it's the perfect place to take your time and enjoy the cherry blossoms! There were many different kinds of cherry blossoms in full bloom, but the one I hadn't seen myself was ✅Kuruma Kaeshi Sakura It's said that when Emperor Gomizunoo went out, he was so impressed by the beauty of the cherry blossoms that he returned his carriage to admire them, so this name was given to it. Well, it was a magnificent cherry blossom with a lot of volume. It's a double-flowered cherry, so it looks very impressive and voluminous! It was worth the walk! #Kyoto #sakura #Kyoto sightseeing #Kyoto trip #Kyoto Gyoen #Kyoto Imperial Palace

Although Kyoto Gyoen is located in the center of Kyoto, it is rich in nature and is a place of relaxation for the citizens. On sunny days, people enjoy picnics or read books in the shade of the trees. Many people also take walks. It is famous for cherry blossoms in spring and autumn leaves in autumn, so summer and winter are recommended to avoid crowds. You can feel the quietness of Kyoto. Many new inns have opened nearby, so it is nice to stay overnight and take a walk in the morning. #supporttourism #Kyoto #famousflowers #kimono #Japaneseclothes #furisode #wanderingKyotoinkimono #KyotoGyoen #KyotoImperialPalace #forestbathing #supporttourism

#tripaway free entry to Kyoto imperial palace with kimono. So pretty at autumn with colorful leaves and architecture #kimonosinkyoto #palace #tripaway

There was some constructions works going on, and the tour is not interesting, also the emperror's throne was not there since they moved it to Tokyo for the celebration. I would recommend to go to Nijo castle, you have to pay for that one but totally worth it. #GiveThanks

Before Tokyo became Japan’s capital, emperors lived in Kyoto — and you can still step into that past at the Kyoto Imperial Palace. Located inside the vast Kyoto Gyoen National Garden, the palace complex offers a glimpse into the refined world of Japanese royalty. With its elegant wooden gates, wide gravel courtyards, and detailed architecture, every corner reflects centuries of history. Though the original buildings were reconstructed, they stay true to the traditional design, with minimalist beauty and perfect symmetry. Tips: • Entry to the grounds is free, but tours of the Imperial Palace require registration • The surrounding park (Kyoto Gyoen) is beautiful for a walk or picnic • Pair your visit with nearby Nijo Castle or Kamo Shrine for a full historic day • Spring and autumn offer the best scenery • Wear comfortable shoes — the grounds are spacious and covered in gravel paths #kyotoimperialpalace

#springitinerary if you’re in Kyoto during spring and want to soak up some chill vibes with a side of history, the Kyoto Imperial Palace gardens are an awesome spot. The palace itself is super impressive, classic Japanese architecture that gives you those royal feels. But honestly, the gardens steal the show, especially in spring when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom. The paths are wide and peaceful, perfect for a relaxed stroll without the usual tourist crush. It’s a great place to just slow down, breathe in the fresh air, and enjoy those soft pink sakura petals floating around. Bonus: it’s easy to get to and doesn’t feel crowded at all, which is rare for Kyoto in spring! Pack some comfy shoes, maybe a little picnic, and you’re set for a super chill afternoon surrounded by nature and history. Perfect for lowkey spring exploring!

beautiful garden in kyoto japan

📅 Itinerary Day1： - Sagano romantic train The train departs from Saga Torokko Station which is near Saga-Arashiyama Station, train tickets can be purchased in advance at tripcom, you can buy on the spot. The train departs every hour starting at 9:02 am, the last one departs at 4:02 pm At the station, be sure to visit the souvenir shop. - Kameoka It is nice to walk around this picturesque town, but if you want, you can go rafting, information can be obtained on the website or at the information center 📌You can return to Arashiyama on your Romantic Train or from the nearest JR station. - Okochi Sanso A quiet, peaceful place to stroll. Entrance is 1,000 yen. It is best to leave the baby stroller downstairs - Footbath (Onsen) of Arashiyama Station You can relax a little in the hot water baths; the price of the visit includes a towel that you can take with you as a souvenir. - Nijo Castle It's especially beautiful here in the evening when the evening lights are turned on Day2: - Ginkaku-ji The famous Silver Pavilion! Don't rush anywhere, spend as much time here as possible. - Philosopher's Path (Tetsugaku No Michi) The best time for a walk is of course during cherry blossom, but it is also very beautiful here at any other time! and along the canal there are many small workshops, cafes. - Eikan-do Continuing our walk along the Philosopher's Trail, we reached a Buddhist temple - Nanzen-ji - Kamo River Embankment In the evening, you should definitely take a walk along the Kamo River embankment. Nearby is the Pontocho alley, you can stop there for dinner. Day3: - Imperial Palace in Kyoto It is impossible to visit Kyoto and miss the Imperial Palace!! You can walk around on your own, you can take an audio guide and listen to a lecture about the structure of the palace. - Kyoto Botanical Garden If you like flowers, you should definitely take a walk here! There is something blooming in the garden all year round. - Kinkaku-ji Golden Pavilion is one of the places you should definitely visit while in Kyoto. - Ryoan-ji Is a famous rock garden, and how many rocks do you see?!) - Kiyomizu-dera, be sure to come here to see the sunset. 🏨 Accommodation - Kyoto Universal Hotel Karasuma We stayed at this hotel. it is conveniently located near Kyoto station, plus there are Kujo and Jujo subway stations nearby, there is also a bus stop and easy access to the main tourist places. Downstairs is Lawson. 🍴 Food Recommendations - Sushi Masa This is probably the best sushi I've had on our trip to Japan. The dinner only cost us 2500 per person. 📌 Tips If you want a good restaurant, I recommend making reservations through the hotel reception, it helps! #kyotojapan #saganoromantictrain #kyotofood

During my trip to Kyoto, I visited three amazing places full of history and beauty. The Imperial Palace impressed me with its architecture and the peaceful gardens. Nijo Castle fascinated me with its sliding doors and “nightingale” floors that chirp with every step. And the Golden Pavilion, reflected in the water, is simply mesmerizing — a true gem of Japan. These places left a deep impression on me and reminded me how rich a country's culture can be.#trip

Kyoto, an ancient capital where you can feel the traditional beauty of Japan, is attractive for its temples, shrines, seasonal scenery, and Japanese food culture. The trick is to plan a relaxed trip. [Access and transportation] 📍Access from the airport: From Kansai Airport to Kyoto, it takes about 75 minutes on the JR Limited Express "Haruka". 📍City transportation: Mainly city buses, subways, and JR. It is convenient to use a sightseeing one-day pass. 📍Premium walking: Depending on the area, a combination of buses and walking is the basic method. [Major area guide] 📍Gion/Higashiyama: Yasaka Shrine, Kiyomizu-dera Temple, Hanamikoji. An area that feels like an ancient capital. 📍Arashiyama: Experience the fusion of nature and culture with the bamboo forest path, Togetsukyo Bridge, and trolley train. 📍Kinkaku-ji Temple/Ginkaku-ji Temple: Japan's most representative temple architecture. A classic spot that represents Kyoto. 📍Fushimi: A famous place for the thousand torii gates of Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine and sake. 【Tourist Spots】 📍Kiyomizu-dera Temple: Popular for its Otowa Falls, stage, and three-story pagoda. Crowded during autumn leaves and cherry blossom season. 📍Nijo Castle: A castle from the Edo period that is registered as a World Heritage Site. 📍Kyoto Imperial Palace and Heian Shrine: A good spot to learn about the historical background. 【Food】 📍Yudofu, matcha sweets, vegetarian cuisine, etc. 📍Eating around Nishiki Market is a great way to experience the local culture. 📍Machiya cafes are also popular for breakfast. 【Notes】 📍Major temples have opening hours and fixed holidays. Check in advance. 📍We recommend visiting early in the morning to reduce crowds. #Kyoto #KyotoTri #KyotoTourism #Kiyomizudera #Arashiyama #Fushimi Inari Taisha #Kinkakuji #Gion #JapanTrip #JapaneseCuff #KyotoGourmet #Maiko #KyotoCharm #JapaneseScenery #KyotoTravelGuide #KyotoConquest

#cherryblossom25 Kyoto Gyoen is like the perfect chill spot if you need a break from the city hustle. Right in the heart of Kyoto, this huge park wraps around the Kyoto Imperial Palace, and it's a peaceful oasis. Whether you’re into strolling, jogging, or just sitting back and soaking in nature, this place has got you covered. The gardens are huge, so you can wander around for hours without feeling cramped. There’s tons of open space, so it’s also great for a picnic or just laying back and enjoying the surroundings. Plus, if you’re into history, there are some cool spots like the Kyoto Imperial Palace and the Sento Imperial Palace tucked inside. It’s also pretty easy to get to and free to visit, so no excuses! Whether you're with friends, family, or on your own, it’s a perfect place to relax and escape the chaos of the city for a bit.