Nijo Castle
Nijo Castle, originally built as a retreat for the Shogun, can be described as a place condensed with Japan’s history and culture. Constructed in 1603 by the first Shogun, Tokugawa Ieyasu, this castle symbolizes the authority of the Edo Shogunate and its harmony with the Imperial family. It served as Ieyasu's lodging during his visit to Kyoto to become Shogun, as well as a protective place for the Emperor.
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.
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
