Nijo Castle: A Precious Example of Early Edo Architecture and Remains

Nijo Castle, located in Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto, is not only a famous spot for cherry blossom and autumn foliage viewing but also a significant historical stage witnessing major turning points in Japan's development and the rise and fall of the Edo Shogunate. The castle was originally built to protect the Kyoto Imperial Palace, where the Emperor resided, and to serve as accommodation for the Shogun when visiting the Emperor in Kyoto. In 1994, it was designated as a World Heritage Site under the "Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto". The visiting hours for Nijo Castle are from 8:45 AM to 4:00 PM, with the castle closing at 5:00 PM. If you wish to visit both "Nijo Castle" and "Ninomaru Palace" at the same time! Nijo Castle not only bears witness to important Japanese history but also preserves precious examples of early Edo architecture and remains. Visitors can admire the splendid Momoyama cultural relics that have remained magnificent even after 400 years. The castle houses several important cultural properties, including the National Treasure "Ninomaru Palace" (Ninomaru Goten), as well as Honmaru Palace, Higashi Otemon Gate, Karamon Gate, Southeast Turret, and the wall paintings of Ninomaru Palace. Additionally, there are beautifully scenic gardens such as the Special Place of Scenic Beauty "Ninomaru Garden", the Western-style lawn garden "Honmaru Garden", and the Japanese-Western fusion garden "Seiryu-en".