I visited Nijo Castle on a weekdays therefore there were not that much crowd. It is such an interesting place to learn about the castle history. There are observation deck too where you can relax. On the day I visited Ni omaru castle was closed unfortunately. I love the architecture of the door/ gate so much. It's exquisite.
Nijo Castle is a good stop if you want to see an important historical site in Kyoto. The Ninomaru Palace is the main reason to visit, especially the nightingale floors, which make sounds as you walk and are quite memorable. The rooms are well maintained, but photos are not allowed inside, so just take your time looking.
I recommend buying the ticket that includes the Ninomaru Palace, the palace rooms are well preserved, but photos are not allowed inside. The garden is nice and relaxing, and it’s worth walking around slowly. There is also a former castle keep area where you can get a view of the grounds.
Nearby places: After visiting Nijo Castle, it’s easy to continue to Kyoto Imperial Palace, Nishiki Market for food, shopping, and cafés.
Nijō Castle is a truly beautiful and historically rich place to visit. Originally built in the early 17th century as the residence of Tokugawa Ieyasu, the first shogun of the Edo period, the castle offers a fascinating glimpse into Japan’s feudal history. Walking through the palace halls and grounds really gives you a sense of its past significance.
I thoroughly enjoyed exploring the castle — from the elegant architectural details of the buildings to the beautifully landscaped gardens, everything was very well designed and peaceful. I honestly would have loved to spend more time there if I could.
The only downside for me was the restroom facilities. For such a popular tourist attraction, the toilets were a little dirtier than expected.
Overall, it’s still a wonderful place to visit and absolutely worth including in a Kyoto itinerary.
Visiting Nijō Castle 元離宮二条城 was a very good experience. The grounds are mostly flat, which makes walking around easy and relaxing, without the need for climbing or handling steep slopes. It felt very comfortable to explore at our own pace and enjoy the surroundings in a calm way.
The castle buildings and wide gardens are beautifully arranged, and there is plenty of open space to take a slow walk while appreciating the history and atmosphere. The combination of traditional architecture and peaceful garden areas gives a gentle feeling, making the visit both interesting and pleasant.
Overall, Nijō Castle is a great place if you want something easy, chill, and not physically demanding. It’s a nice way to enjoy Kyoto’s history while having a relaxed time. 🌿✨
A fantastic cultural experience! Nijo Castle offers a deep dive into Japan’s history through its beautifully preserved palace, traditional architecture, and famous nightingale floors. The gardens are wide, peaceful, and stunning in every season. Everything is well organized and easy to explore. A must-visit in Kyoto for history lovers and casual travelers alike.
This castle is one of Japan's most celebrated, distinguished by its significant historical value, pivotal role in the nation's narrative, strategic location within a notable city, and recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Nijo Castle, a gem in the city that captivates with its majestic white walls, towering east gate, and year-round beauty, clearly reflects the grandeur of its historical inhabitants.
Tokugawa shogunate
The Palace, a National Treasure, features six interconnected buildings exemplifying the shoin-zukuri architectural style, refined in the early Edo period (1603–1867), and stands as the sole remaining example of a fortified palace complex.
Tours guided by official guides of Nijo Castle, available in both Japanese and English and lasting about 60 minutes, are offered daily at 10:00 AM and 12:00 PM, except on days when the castle or palace is closed, typically ranging in duration from an hour to an hour and a half.
