Tokyo Sightseeing Recommendation: The Imperial Palace
📍 The Imperial Palace
🚄 Transportation: JR Tokyo Station, Marunouchi Line Tokyo Station, Chiyoda Line Nijubashi-mae Station
💰 Cost: Free admission
Crossing the Nijubashi Bridge, Feel the Historical Atmosphere
From Nijubashi-mae Station, you can see the famous 'Nijubashi Bridge' from afar. This black iron bridge spans the moat, with the palace buildings in the background, creating a scene reminiscent of a Japanese historical painting. Standing by the bridge, looking at the green water of the moat and the neatly arranged pine trees, you feel a stark contrast with the modern city outside the station, as if you have traveled back in time to the Edo period.
The East Gardens of the Imperial Palace - A Free Open Garden
A part of the Imperial Palace, the East Gardens, is open to the public and free to visit. This area was originally the core area of Edo Castle and has now become a beautiful garden. I strolled along the stone paths, admiring the exquisite Japanese garden landscaping, and saw the remains of Edo Castle, such as the stone walls of the Tenshudai. In spring, cherry blossoms bloom here, and in autumn, you can enjoy the red leaves. Each season offers different scenery.
A Moment of Tranquility in the City
After leaving the East Gardens, I took a short break on the lawn of the Outer Gardens of the Imperial Palace, watching citizens jogging and tourists leisurely strolling, experiencing a rare moment of tranquility in Tokyo. Unlike other tourist attractions, this place is not as bustling, making it more suitable for slowing down and experiencing another side of the city.
The Imperial Palace is not only a symbol of the Japanese royal family but also a place where people can temporarily escape the hustle and bustle of the city. If you want to find a spot in Tokyo that combines history, culture, and nature, the Imperial Palace is definitely worth a visit.