Kyoto Imperial Palace, A serene retreat of imperial elegance
3 Kyotogyoen, Kamigyo-ku, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture 602-0881, Japan
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Introduction
The Kyoto Imperial Palace is located within the Kyoto Imperial Park and served as the political and administrative center during the Heian period in Japan. From the capital relocation from Nara in 781 AD to the Meiji Restoration in 1074 AD, it was the residence of successive emperors and later evolved into a palace.
The Kyoto Imperial Palace has undergone seven fires throughout its history. The current palace was rebuilt by Emperor Kōmei, covering a total area of 912,000 square meters. It is surrounded by stone walls and the interior is paved with white sand. The palace extends 700 meters east to west and 1,300 meters north to south, with a total area of 110,000 square meters. It is surrounded by walls and consists of 9 main gates, 10 main halls, and 19 subsidiary halls. The palace is known for its elegant surroundings, with rows of pine trees and cherry blossoms, creating a particularly beautiful sight during the spring season when plum blossoms and cherry blossoms complement each other.
During World War II, to prevent the Kyoto Imperial Palace from being damaged by fire, the entire corridor was dismantled, but other parts of the buildings were preserved. Address 3 Kyotogyoen, Kamigyo-ku, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture 602-0881, Japan
Opening hours September and March: 9:00-16:30 (last admission time 15:50). October to February: 9:00-16:00 (last admission time 15:20). April to August: 9:00-17:00 (last admission time 16:20).
Royal Palace
