Kyoto Imperial Palace is primarily built in the Japanese Tang style with tiled roofs and colourful pillars. Dairi maintained a space with ancient Japanese architectural elements like cypress bark roofs and plain wood construction, representing the national style cultures.
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Where is the Kyoto Imperial Palace Located?
Kyoto Imperial Palace is another symbol of the historical legacy of the Japanese Emperors after Tokyo Imperial Palace. Located in the northern part of the city, Kyoto Gyoen National Garden, Kamigyo-ku, Kyoto. Situated where visitors can be easily accessible by public transportations like buses and subways.
History of the Kyoto Imperial Palace
As we said, the Tokyo Imperial Palace and Kyoto Imperial Palace are different. Both are the perfect historical sites to appreciate the cultural and historical significance of Japanese legacy. The city of Kyoto has been home to many Imperial residences since the relocation of the capital by the Emperor Kanmu.
Under that Kyoto Imperial Palace is one. Its rich history dates back to the 8th century, built by the Heian kingdom in 792. But the majority of the visitors didn’t know that the initial Kyoto palace had been used as the residence of the Emperors for almost 500 years until its capital officially moved to Tokyo city in 1869.
One of the sad parts of the palace was damaged and plagued by the fire constantly and it was rebuilt each time when it was damaged. Especially its palace complex has undergone various renovations and reconstructions, which shows us clearly the changes in its architectural styles. Palace known as the centre of imperial activities during the Heian period, therefore they took most of its renovation and rebuilt invitations after being damaged by the fire.
Under that, Shishinden (Hall for state ceremonies) is considered the most important one, built during 794 to 1185 by the Heian period. They were used as accommodation for those who came to the ordination ceremonial activities. Meji, Taisho and Showa Enthronement were celebrated in the present hall. Despite that, the Takamikura throne and Michodai August seat were held inside of the palace.
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Kyoto Imperial Palace Entrance Fee
There is no entrance fee to enter the Kyoto Imperial Palace, Admission is free. Palace is open to the general public all year round including the palace grounds. Reservations for guided tours are usually recommended, especially during peak tourist times.
Visitors usually should plan to spend 1 to 2 hours of time to explore the Kyoto Imperial Palace from its grounds to gardens with the help of guided tours.
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Kyoto Imperial Palace Opening Hours
Opening hours are divided into 3 sections according to the months and the traffic of the tourists.
1. April to August: 9:00 am to 16:20 pm (closing time is 17:00)
2. September to March: 9:00 am to 15:50 pm (closing time is 16:30)
3. October to February: 9:00 am to 15:20 pm (closing time is 16:00).
Remember: Monday is a holiday and from December 28th to January 4th the
Kyoto Imperial Palace is completely closed.
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Kyoto Imperial Palace Gardens
There are few gardens which will add more value to your Imperial journey. You can also spend time with these gardens and explore its lush greenery with surrounding atmospheres.
1. Kyoto Gyoen Garden
2. Imperial Palace
3. Sento Gosho Garden
4. Ginkaku-ji Temple Garden
5. Tenryu-ji Temple Garden
Kyoto Imperial Palace Map