Nijo Castle
The Ninomaru Palace of Nijo Castle underwent major renovations by the third Shogun, Tokugawa Iemitsu, in preparation for the Emperor Go-Mizuno's visit, and many of the screen paintings created by Kano Tanyu remain to this day. These magnificent artworks showcased the high cultural standards and power of the Edo Shogunate.
During the late Edo period, the 15th Shogun Tokugawa Yoshinobu declared the "Taisei Hokan" (the return of governance) here, marking a historic moment when the Shogunate returned power to the Imperial court. Nijo Castle has been involved in many significant events in Japanese history, from the beginning to the end of the Shogunate era.
Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1994, this castle is an important cultural asset that conveys around 400 years of history to the present day. Particularly in spring, about 300 cherry blossom trees of 50 varieties bloom beautifully, and during the Nijo Castle Cherry Blossom Festival, they are spectacularly illuminated.
Located in the heart of Kyoto, Nijo Castle is easily accessible. This place, where one can enjoy history, culture, and the beauty of nature all at once, is an unmissable tourist destination for anyone visiting Japan. Official guided tours are also available, providing opportunities for a deeper understanding of this historic site.
Basic Information
- Spot Name
- Nijo Castle
- Location
- 〒604-8301 541 Nijojo-cho, Nakagyo-ku, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture, Japan
- Access
- A short walk from Nijojo-mae Station on the Tozai Subway Line.
A short walk from the Nijojo-mae bus stop on the city bus. - Parking
- Parking available
- Business Hours
- 8:45 AM to 4:00 PM (Last entry at 5:00 PM)
- Regular Holiday
- From December 29 to December 31, the Ninomaru Palace is closed on Tuesdays in January, July, August, and December, as well as from January 1 to January 3 and from December 26 to December 28. (Please note that if these days fall on holidays, the Ninomaru Palace can be visited, but it will be closed for viewing the following day.)
- Fees
- 【Admission Fee / Ninomaru Palace Viewing Fee】 General: 1,030 yen, Junior High and High School Students: 350 yen, Elementary School Students: 200 yen, *Free for children under elementary school age.
【Exhibition and Storage Museum Viewing Fee】 100 yen
【Admission Fee Only】 General: 620 yen - Contact Information
- Phone Number：075-841-0096
- Official Website
Map
Nijo Castle Movies
Kyoto Tourist Attractions
View List
Nishiki Market
Nishiki Market is a historic marketplace located in the heart of Kyoto, which began as a fish wholesaler known as "Nishino-ten" during the Tensho period (about 400 y...
Togetsukyo Bridge
The Togetsukyo Bridge, which connects Arashiyama and Sagano, is a bridge rich in history and charm, spanning the Katsura River. The first bridge was built by the mon...
To-ji Temple
Toji Temple (official name: Kyo-o Gokokuj), is the only existing structure from the Heian-kyo period and is registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Founded two y...
Sanjusangen-do Temple
Sanjusangendo, officially known as Rengeoin, is a Tendai Buddhist temple located in Kyoto. Rebuilt during the Kamakura period, this temple boasts a main hall that is...
The National Museum of Modern Art, Kyoto
The National Museum of Modern Art, Kyoto, was opened in 1963 in Okazaki Park, Kyoto. This museum covers a wide range of art genres, including Japanese painting, oil ...
Yasaka Shrine
Yasaka Shrine, commonly known as "Gion-san," is widely cherished. This shrine is particularly significant as the head shrine of the approximately 2,300 Yasaka Shrine...
Amanohashidate
Amanohashidate is a special scenic spot located in Miyazu Bay, facing the Sea of Japan in the northern part of Kyoto Prefecture. It is one of the "Three Views of Jap...
