A Scenic Walk from Tokyo Station
Walking around the Tokyo Imperial Palace is one of the best ways to experience the historic heart of Tokyo. The area is known for its beautiful moats, massive stone walls, and peaceful scenery right in the middle of the city.
On my recent visit, I started the walk from Tokyo Station and completed the full loop around the Imperial Palace. The route is about 5 km (3.1 miles) and offers some of the most iconic views in Tokyo.
This step-by-step guide follows the exact walking route so you can easily enjoy the same experience.
Walking Route Overview
Starting Point: Tokyo Station
Distance: Approximately 5 km
Walking Time: About 60–90 minutes
Difficulty: Easy and mostly flat
The route circles the Imperial Palace area and passes several historic gates, gardens, and scenic viewpoints. Around Kokyo Gaien National Garden, most walkers and runners follow the route counterclockwise, which is considered the standard direction for completing the loop.
If you’re heading to Tokyo Station, choosing the correct exit matters.
👉 See which exit to use:
Step 1: Start at Tokyo Station
Begin your walk at Tokyo Station, one of Japan’s most famous railway stations.
The historic red-brick station building is an attraction itself and marks the gateway to the Imperial Palace area. From here, walk toward the large open plaza in front of the palace.
The Imperial Palace grounds are only about 10 minutes away on foot.
Walk straight ahead with Tokyo Station behind you, and you’ll find Nijubashimae Station on the subway.
Every view is spectacular, and there are numerous photo spots.
There are maps posted in various locations, so take a look to get a sense of the layout.
Step 2: Kokyo Gaien National Garden
Your first stop will be the wide open plaza of Kokyo Gaien National Garden.
A wide and peaceful walking route near the Imperial Palace — perfect for exploring Tokyo on foot.
This open area marks the approach to the Imperial Palace — much wider and calmer than most parts of Tokyo.
One of the few remaining Edo-period structures — a rare glimpse of historic Tokyo within the city center.
This spacious park area offers a panoramic view of the palace grounds, making it one of the most scenic spots in central Tokyo.
Though only time has passed since the Edo period, the sky’s color remains unchanged. I believe the view everyone once gazed upon has surely stayed the same. Perhaps that’s why we can still feel something here.
Many visitors stop here for photos before continuing the walk.
Step 3: Otemon Gate
Otemon Gate
Otemon Gate was once the main entrance to Edo Castle. Today it serves as the entrance to the Imperial Palace East Gardens.
The massive stone walls here provide a glimpse into Tokyo’s samurai-era history.
If you’re interested in Tokyo’s deeper history, you can make a short detour to visit Taira no Masakado’s Grave, a legendary site associated with one of Japan’s most famous samurai.
Step 4: Takebashi Area
Takebashi
This area offers a peaceful view of the palace moat. The reflections of trees and stone walls on the water create one of the most relaxing scenes along the route.
Many locals walk or jog along this stretch.
You’ll find seasonal colors along the walking route — another reason this area feels special.
Signs with explanatory text are placed at various spots, so reading them will help you imagine what it was like back then.
Step 5: Remains of the Imperial Guard Division Headquarters
Remains of the Imperial Guard Division Headquarters
A short walk from Takebashi, you will find the remains of the Imperial Guard Division Headquarters, an important historical site connected to the former Edo Castle and Japan’s imperial history.
The Imperial Guard was responsible for protecting the Emperor and the Imperial Palace. Today, only parts of the original structure remain, but the site offers a fascinating glimpse into Tokyo’s military and imperial past.
If you have time, I recommend taking a walk around Kitanomaru Park as well.
In the northern part of Kitanomaru Park lies Yasukuni Shrine.
Step 6: Chidorigafuchi Park
Chidorigafuchi Park
Continuing along the moat, you will arrive at Chidorigafuchi Park, one of the most beautiful scenic spots around the Imperial Palace.
This area is especially famous during cherry blossom season, when hundreds of sakura trees line the water and create one of Tokyo’s most iconic spring landscapes. Visitors can also rent small boats and enjoy a unique view of the blossoms from the moat.
Even outside the cherry blossom season, the peaceful path and water views make this section of the walk particularly relaxing.
This is a photo of a cherry tree, but if you visit in spring, you absolutely must see it. You can walk along a path lined with cherry blossoms in full bloom.
Step 7: Hanzomon Gate
Hanzomon Gate
Hanzomon Gate is a well-known landmark on the Imperial Palace running route. From here you can enjoy a wide view of the moat and the surrounding city skyline.
Step 8: Sakuradamon Gate
Sakuradamon Gate
One of the historic gates of Edo Castle — visitors still pass through the same entrance used centuries ago.
This historic gate is known for its impressive stone walls and its role in Japanese history. The view of the moat from here is one of the highlights of the walk.
Near Sakuradamon is the National Diet Building.
Step 9: Nijubashi Bridge
Nijubashi Bridge
Nijubashi Bridge is one of the most iconic landmarks in Tokyo and a popular photo spot for visitors. The elegant bridge leads toward the inner palace grounds.
For a detailed explanation of Nijūbashi, see here.
Step 10: Kokyo Gaien National Garden
Kokyo Gaien National Garden
The vast open plaza in front of the Imperial Palace — surprisingly quiet in the heart of Tokyo.
A rare view where Tokyo Tower appears beyond the Imperial Palace grounds.
Many visitors stop here to relax or take photos before heading back to Tokyo Station.
Information board for the Imperial Palace guided tour — free admission with limited daily spots.
Visitors lining up for the Imperial Palace tour — arrive early as spots are limited.
This day offered public access to the Imperial Palace grounds, which are normally off-limits. Due to limited capacity, a line had formed of foreign tourists. Visitors needed identification to enter, underwent baggage screening, and were required to follow a guided tour lasting about an hour and a half—with no mid-tour exits permitted.
Step 11: Return to Tokyo Station
Finally, walk back to Tokyo Station to complete the 5 km Imperial Palace loop.
You will have completed one of the most scenic walks in central Tokyo.
I took my time photographing as I made my way around, so it took about an hour and 45 minutes. My step count was around 9,000 steps.
Best Time to Walk Around the Imperial Palace
Spring
Cherry blossoms bloom around the palace moat.
Autumn
The trees turn vibrant red and gold.
Morning
Early morning offers the quietest and most peaceful atmosphere.
Tips for Walking the Imperial Palace Loop
Wear comfortable walking shoes
Bring water in summer
Start early to avoid crowds
Allow time for photos
Final Thoughts
Walking around the Tokyo Imperial Palace from Tokyo Station is one of the best short walking routes in Tokyo.
The route combines history, scenic views, and peaceful park spaces while remaining easily accessible from the city center.
For travelers looking to explore Tokyo beyond the busy streets, the Imperial Palace walk is highly recommended.
Editor’s Note
We started at 8 a.m., and Tokyo Station was still relatively quiet, making it easy to take photos. Even so, many runners were already active around the Imperial Palace early in the morning, so everyone needs to be careful not to bump into each other. Since runners are also moving counterclockwise, it’s best to walk counterclockwise too. The warm, spring-like weather made for a very pleasant stroll.
After your walk, some shops inside Tokyo Station are open, so it’s a great spot for a late breakfast.
A refreshing Japanese beer after walking around the Imperial Palace — the perfect reward.
Fresh sushi in Tokyo after a long walk — one of the best ways to end the Imperial Palace route.
If you enjoy exploring Tokyo on foot, you might also like these walking routes.
FAQ-About Imperial Palace Walking
How long is the Imperial Palace walk?
The full loop around the Imperial Palace is about 5 km.
Can tourists walk around the Imperial Palace?
Yes. The public paths around the palace are open to visitors.
Where should I start the Imperial Palace walk?
Many visitors start from Tokyo Station because it is the closest major transportation hub.
Rainy Day Alternative: Explore Inside Tokyo Station
If rain interrupts your walk around the Tokyo Imperial Palace, don’t worry. The area around Tokyo Station offers plenty of indoor attractions where you can still enjoy Tokyo without getting wet.
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