Kyoto Omiya Imperial Palace
4.1
(79)The Kyoto Omiya Imperial Palace was built in 1867 as a residence for Empress Eishō, the spouse of Emperor Kōmei. Today, it serves as a lodging for the imperial family and state guests. The surrounding compound is open to the public as a recreational park, offering a serene space for walks and cycling.
Address
Kyotogyoen, Kamigyo Ward, Kyoto, 602-0881, Japan
Phone
+81 3-3213-1111
Worth it?
Worth it if you appreciate quiet, expansive grounds and don't mind a guided tour to see the palace itself
Skip if you're looking for an immersive interior palace experience without advance planning
Location
Kyotogyoen, Kamigyo Ward, Kyoto, 602-0881, Japan
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Highlights
The palace grounds are a large public park where you can take a stroll, ride a bicycle, or sit on a bench.
Guided tours of the palace are available, and an English audio guide is provided even if the main tour is in Japanese.
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Who it's for
This spot is ideal for those who enjoy peaceful strolls in a park-like setting and are interested in seeing the exterior of an imperial residence. It's less suited for travelers expecting to explore richly detailed interiors.
Know before you go
Palace tours require a guide and permission, which can be obtained via a form or ticket handouts at a makeshift tent in front of the palace.
The palace closes at 5 PM, with the last entry at 4 PM.
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Reviews
4.1
Good
5 ReviewsReviewers generally appreciate the peaceful and expansive park surrounding the palace, which is freely accessible. While guided tours of the palace are available and include audio guides, some visitors found the experience focused too much on the exterior.
Fun facts
Ōmiya Palace literally means "Large Palace," but it is also a courtesy title for the Empress Dowager, so the name doesn't refer to a specific location.
