Including the Imperial Palace is definitely a-must when planning your Tokyo itinerary.
Aside from learning about the historical background, the tour is free! hehe
You have the option to go on your own or take the guided tour.
I think you'll only get to see limited places if you don't take the tour.
But if you want to get the guided one, you need to book an appointment first!
You can make a reservation online at the Imperial's Household Agency website :)
The guided tour is open from Mon-Fri with a 10am slot in the morning and 1pm in the afternoon.
Remember though, the Japanese are notorious for being strict with time so be sure you'll arrive before your preferred schedule ;)
Overall, there are 11 buildings that's included in the tour.
One of which is the 80 year old Imperial Household Agency Building.
Unfortunately, it's not allowed to go inside so here's a pretty pic of the exterior.
It's no surprise that there's a lot of security personnel in the palace grounds.
How lucky we were to catch a glimpse of their drill for the New Year!
Kyuden Totei Plaza
This is the area where people gather to see the Imperial Family during the Emperor's birthday and New Year's Day.
Kinda like this...but a hundred crowds more!hehe
The balcony of Chowaden Hall where the Imperial Family stands,smiles and waves at the people outside the plaza !
My fave, Fushimi -yagura Keep.
So pretty!
Interestingly, this structure was originally from the grounds of Fushimi Castle in Kyoto.
It was dismantled and reassembled in Tokyo during the period of Shogun Iemitsu.
Can you imagine?!lol
View of the city from Nijubashi bridge.
Yea, this is another angle of the first pic haha
This is called Fujimi-yagura Keep or Mt. Fuji View Keep.
What's interesting is that this structure has been restored despite being destroyed by fire and earthquake on two separate occasions. Wow!
Yamashita dori Street.
After the tour, we just roamed around the gardens.
Surprised to see autumn colors on winter season!hehe
Oh hi there Koi fishies!
Not sure what these are but looks like a grave LOL
Fall foliage~
Me and the tree! haha
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