Gigative · Experiences
Kyoto Imperial Palace & Nijo Castle Guided Walking Tour - 3 Hours
About this experience
Discover two of Kyoto's amazing attractions with a warm and knowledgeable local guide by your side. Step into the Kyoto Imperial Palace, once home to Japan's imperial family, and learn about its history. Explore Nijo Castle on a guided tour to admire its exquisite feudal-era architecture. (Note: For the Nijo Castle visit, tour guides will only bring you to the Ninomaru-goten Palace and Garden.) Book at your convenience – we even welcome last-minute reservations! Select from various start times that suit your schedule. Relish the personal touch of a small group tour, limited to just 9 participants.
What to expect
Stop 1 · 1h 30min
The historical city of Kyoto is one of Japan’s most famous cities. It was once the capital of Japan and the place of the emperor’s residence for more than a thousand years. In this guided walking tour, we’ll explore the grandeur and rich history of Japan’s past with a visit to Nijo Castle. Admire the castle’s impressive architecture, beautiful gardens, and intricate interiors that offer a glimpse into the lives of Japan’s shoguns.
Stop 2 · 1h 30min
Learn about the Kyoto Imperial Palace and how it was once the residence of Japan’s imperial family. Your friendly TripGuru will take you around the impressive structure, giving you time to admire the stunning architecture, beautiful gardens, and more.
What’s included
- English-speaking tour guide
- Entrance fees
- 3 hour walking tour
Not included
- Hotel pick up and drop off
- Meals and other drinks
- Personal expenses
Tour & ticket options
Options may have different inclusions and meeting points. Choose your option when booking on Viator.
Small Group Tour
Private Tour in French
Private Tour in French: Select this option for a Private tour with a French Guide. Entrance fees are included.
Private Tour in Chinese
Chinese-speaking tour guide
Private Tour in English
with a private tour guide
Private Tour in Spanish
Private Tour in Spanish: Select this option for a Private tour with a Spanish Guide. Entrance fees are included.
Meeting & pickup
- Meeting Point: Nijojo-Mae Station outside Exit 1. Your guide will be waiting for you at the meeting point wearing a TripGuru shirt or holding a TripGuru sign.
End point
- This tour will end at Imadegawa Station
Notes: Despite being open to the public, the Kyoto imperial Palace is still an official palace. There will be a station at the entrance where your bags will be checked and you will be requested to get a tag for them. Some parts of the building are closed to the public and may not be entered. Important Information: Punctuality: Kindly be at the meeting point at least 10 minutes before the stated meeting time. Our tour guides will only wait a maximum of 10 minutes before proceeding to the next stop. Traffic: If you are headed to the meeting point, we would like to stress that heavy traffic in the morning is expected, and can vary greatly when compared to the travel time stated in navigation apps (e.g. Google Maps, Waze, etc.). Please make sure to consider leaving with enough time to reach your destination. Dress Code: Visitors are expected to dress modestly and respectfully when visiting the palace grounds. This means avoiding clothing that is too revealing or casual, such as shorts or tank tops.
Before you go
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.