Tokyo Imperial Palace

The Tokyo Imperial Palace was built on the former grounds of Edo Castle. It is surrounded by moats, stone walls, and large park area. The structure is the current residence for the Imperial Family of Japan. During the Edo Period the Tokugawa Shogunate set up their feudal government in Edo (present day Tokyo). Edo Castle was where the Tokugawa Clan was seated until they were overthrown. In the Meiji Era, the capital and imperial residence was moved to its current site. The new Imperial Palace was completed in 1888, but was destroyed in World War II and rebuilt afterwards. Generally, the inner grounds are not open to the public except on January 2 for the New Year’s greeting and Emperor’s birthday. There are tours available to explore the palace grounds, but not the builds themselves.