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Hours |
Tours in English Mon-Fri at 10am and 2pm, also 3rd Sat of every month and every Sat Apr-May and Oct-Nov |
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Location |
Kyotogyoen-nai, Karasuma-Imadegawa, Central Kyoto |
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Transportation |
Subway: Karasuma Line to Imadegawa (exit 3); then turn left and walk south on Karasuma Dori (5 min.) |
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Phone |
075/211-1215 |
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Prices |
Free admission |
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Season |
Closed national holidays |
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Other |
Permission must be obtained from the Imperial Household Agency Office (tel. 075/211-1215), either online at http://sankan.kunaicho.go.jp/order/index_EN.html at least 4 days in advance; or in person at palace grounds near the northeast corner, Mon-Fri 8:45am-noon and 1-4pm. Foreign visitors can apply in person in advance or on the day of the tour (before 9:40am for the 10am tour, before 1:40pm for the 2pm tour; 1-day advance application required for Sat tours), but tours can fill up (especially in spring and fall). You must be 18 or older (or accompanied by an adult) and you must present your passport; parties of no more than 8 may apply |
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Frommer's Review
This is where the imperial family lived from 1331 until 1868 when they moved to Tokyo. The palace was destroyed several times by fire but was always rebuilt in its original style; the present buildings date from 1855. Modestly furnished with delicate decorations, the palace shows the restful designs of the peaceful Heian Period. The emperor's private garden is graceful. You can visit the palace only on a free, 1-hour guided tour, but fair warning: Tours are conducted quickly, leaving little time for dawdling or taking pictures. In addition, tours view buildings only from the outside, though they do impart interesting information on court life and palace architecture.
Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without
notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before
planning your trip.
