A stunning view into old world Japan. We walked inside the grounds and buildings of the castle. The artwork (albeit replicas) are stunning. Make sure to walk around the parameter of the grounds to see all the gardens, walls and structures. Will worth a visit - would recommend you buy tickets in advance or arrive early to beat the queues.
Being able to go inside the castle was a great experience. Lots of information and beautiful artwork to take in. It was crowded inside, but everyone was respectful and patient.
The outer grounds were excellent as well, with impressive rock work and ponds.
If it’s your first time in Kyoto, make sure to add this landmark to your list! The history behind the castle is really interesting for people into Japanese history. I’d recommend a tour guide or audio guide though. There is an area where that is only passable if you have the ticket with the privilege of entering it. I bought the cheapest ticket as I wasn’t interested but if you are and for big history buffs, go right on ahead!
It was really nice and well maintained with its architecture. There’s also an area for a lookout point where you can take a couple of great shots.
A must visit place while in Tokyo; Nijo Castle was built as the Kyoto residence of the Tokugawa shōguns. It was also the stage for the declaration returning authority back to the imperial court. Thus, it's a place brimming with significant historical events.
The buildings are impressive and the nightingale floor is a fun experience.
There are plenty of resting areas and rest rooms within the grounds as well as some cafes and souvenirer shops.
The main shogun villa had a wheelchair entrance.
It is also interesting to compare the grandness of this shogun seat in Kyoto to the quite elegance of the nearby imperial palace.
While the visit to the castle grounds does not require prior booking, to visit the imperial villa, inside the castle ground, you must prebook a ticket online.
Nijo Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Kyoto, offers a captivating journey into Japan's feudal past. It served as the residence of Ieyasu, the first shogun of the Edo period. Within its ground is the Ninomaru Palace and the beautiful Nonomaru garden. The castle is protected by impressive moats and stone walls. The opening hour is from 8.45 am to 5pm, however last entry is at 4pm. Having arrived there just after 4pm, I can only enjoy the site from outside its castle wall.
