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Nijo Castle

4.4 (200)Historical LandmarkTourist AttractionHistorical PlacePoint Of InterestEstablishment

Nijo Castle is a magnificent example of traditional Japanese architecture and a symbol of historical authority. Built in 1603 by Tokugawa Ieyesho, the first shogun of the Edo period, this castle served as a residence for shoguns and a place of political power for nearly 260 years. It is famous for its "nightingale floors," designed to chirp like birds when walked upon, serving as a security measure against intruders.

Nijo Castle features two concentric rings of fortifications, each with a palace inside. The inner palace, Ninomaru Palace, is renowned for its beautiful sliding doors and elegantly painted screens created by artists of the Kano school. These artworks depict scenes of nature and are considered masterpieces of Japanese art.

Declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1994, Nijo Castle is not only a historical site but also a popular tourist destination. Visitors can stroll through well-maintained gardens that showcase seasonal flowers and trees, offering a peaceful retreat from the modern city surrounding it.

Hours:

8:45 AM – 4:00 PM

(closing time: 5:00 PM)

Closed:

December 29 – 31

Available:

All year (except December 29 – 31)

Minimum Age:

All ages are welcome

Admission Fee:

1,300 yen (General)

400 yen (Junior high/high school students)

300 yen (Elementary school student)

Free (Under six years old)


Hours
Monday: 8:45 AM – 5:00 PM
Tuesday: 8:45 AM – 5:00 PM
Wednesday: 8:45 AM – 5:00 PM
Thursday: 8:45 AM – 5:00 PM
Friday: 8:45 AM – 5:00 PM
Saturday: 8:45 AM – 5:00 PM
Sunday: 8:45 AM – 5:00 PM
Phone
+81 75-841-0096
Website
nijo-jocastle.city.kyoto.lg.jp

The area

Address
541 Nijōjōchō, Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto, 604-8301, Japan

What other travelers are saying about Nijo Castle

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.
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Brent Watson
Apr 11, 2025
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.
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Beau Murray
Apr 11, 2025
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.
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Keane Wee
Mar 7, 2025
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.
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Fredrik Steen
Apr 13, 2025
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.
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Sinny able
Mar 27, 2025


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