Imperial Palace East Gardens, Gardens and castle of the Imperial Palace in Chiyoda, Japan
The East Gardens of the Imperial Palace in Chiyoda spread across a large area with stone walls, water-filled moats, and several watchtowers throughout the grounds. Traditional Japanese landscaping changes with the seasons and creates different views across various sections.
The site once formed part of Edo Castle and contains remnants from the Tokugawa period, including fortification structures from that era. It was later transformed into imperial gardens while preserving these historical structures as part of its layout.
The gardens hold deep significance for the imperial household, serving as a setting for official ceremonies and important state occasions. You can observe how traditional architecture and garden design reflect this formal purpose.
The grounds are free to enter from Tuesday through Sunday and can be accessed via the Ōte-mon Gate. Plan enough time for your visit since there are multiple areas to explore and it helps to understand the layout beforehand.
The grounds feature the Tōkagakudō, a concert hall with an aluminum roof shaped to resemble Mount Fuji. This unusual structure blends modern design with a classical Japanese reference in an unexpected way.
Location: Chiyoda-ku
Official opening: October 1, 1968
Website: https://kunaicho.go.jp/e-about/shisetsu/higashigyoen01.html
GPS coordinates: 35.68639,139.75750
Latest update: December 6, 2025 19:02
Tokyo offers photographers a wide range of subjects, from centuries-old temples to modern skyscrapers and maintained gardens. The city combines traditional Japanese architecture with contemporary urban design, creating environments that shift throughout the day. Sites like Senso-ji Temple in Taito and Meiji Shrine in Shibuya present religious structures amid urban settings, while Tokyo Skytree in Sumida and Tokyo Tower in Minato provide elevated city views. The city's different districts showcase varied aspects of Japanese culture. Harajuku and Akihabara Electric Town in Chiyoda represent modern youth culture and technology, while Omoide Yokocho in Shinjuku offers a glimpse of postwar dining alleys. Parks including Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, Yoyogi Park, and Chidorigafuchi Park provide seasonal photo opportunities, particularly during cherry blossom season. Shibuya Crossing demonstrates urban movement, Nakameguro Canal offers waterway perspectives, and locations like Hamarikyu Gardens and Imperial Palace East Gardens show traditional Japanese landscaping. From the observation decks of Roppongi Hills Mori Tower and Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building to the street scenes of Takeshita Street and Ginza District, Tokyo serves different photographic interests.
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