Located in the Chiyoda Ward, the Imperial Palace (Tokyo-jo) is the residence of Japan's imperial family. The palace sits on the site of the old Edo castle, which was the seat of power for the Tokugawa shogun until 1868 when the Shogunate was overthrown. The castle was built in 1888. As with most historic buildings in Japan's larger cities, it was destroyed by air raids during WWII but was rebuilt in the same style. The palace is a working residence, so the inner gardens and actual palace buildings are only open to the public on January 2 (New Years Greeting) and on December 23 (the emperor's birthday). You can make advance reservations for tours as well.

	The name Meganebashi Bridge means eyeglass bridge. It is a very appropriate name and one of the most photographed scenes in Japan.
	Unlike most western castles and palaces, the moats associated with many of Japan's palaces are in tact.

All photos on this page are originals by & copyrighted by Daren Willden, unless otherwise stated. All rights reserved.