Tokyo Imperial Palace
A land of tradition, Japan has long been ruled by emperors, although now it is a constitutional monarchy, much like the United Kingdom, with a royal figurehead and an elected government. Tokyo’s Imperial Palace remains the residence of the Japanese royal family, but much of it is open to the public, including the main palace, the archives and the museum.
Situated in a lovely 81-hectare (200 acres), park-like setting, the Imperial Palace offers free tours, but visitors must register in advance (some places are available on a day-of basis). A maximum of 500 people are permitted through the buildings each day.
The grounds are divided into several different styles of gardens. At the east gardens, visitors wonder at the ruins of the inner sanctum of the ancient Edo Castle (there is even a moat!). The Koyo Garden is a public park located at the inner palace’s entrance. History and bucolic beauty in one location.