Kyoto Imperial Palace and Nijo Castle
Joined 2025
Step into the world of emperors and samurai on this historical journey through Kyoto.
Explore the elegant gardens and grand halls of the Kyoto Imperial Palace, then uncover the secrets of Nijo Castle—home to shoguns, hidden chambers, and the famous “nightingale floors” that sing with every step.
Itinerary
This itinerary can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Send me a message with your requests!
Meeting Point
Nijo Castle
- Nijo Castle (Main Entrance/Ticketing Gate) 541 Nijojocho, Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto, 604-8301
Nijo Castle Main Building
Step inside a real shogun residence filled with history, hidden chambers, and famous paintings. Experience the famous nightingale corridors.
Ninomaru Garden
A classic Japanese landscape garden with ponds, islands, and manicured pines—designed to reflect the refined beauty of the Edo period.
Honmaru Garden and Watchtower
A quiet, lesser-known garden tucked within Nijo Castle’s inner circle—climb the watchtower for scenic views of the castle from above.
Seiryu-en Garden
A modern-style Japanese garden used for tea ceremonies and official receptions, combining tradition with elegance.
Kyoto Imperial Palace and National Garden
Once the home of Japan’s emperors, this grand estate features wide courtyards, graceful gates, and beautifully preserved Heian-style architecture.
Ending Point
Kyoto National Garden
Want to personalize this tour?
This tour can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Click below to send me a message with your requests.
Inclusions & Exclusions
• Guide Fee
• Entrance Ticket to Nijo Castle
• Transportation cost from Nijo Castle to Imperial Palace
• Hotel Pick Up
Tour Important Information
Tour Duration: 3 hours
Walking Level: Moderate – please wear comfortable shoes
What to Bring: Water, sun protection, and seasonal clothing
Photography:
• No photos allowed inside Nijo Castle’s main building (Ninomaru Palace)
• Photography is allowed in the gardens and exterior areas
Cancellation Policy
- Free cancellation - 8 days prior to meeting time
- 50% Refund - 3 to 7 days prior to meeting time
- No Refund - Within 2 day(s) prior to meeting time
Joined 2025
About Tour Guide Jasmine L.
Hi, I’m Jasmine! I am a friendly, multilingual guide based in Kyoto.
My tours are perfect for families with children and easy-paced for elderly guests. I offer warm, personal experiences filled with fun stories, local delights, and hidden gems you won’t find in guidebooks. Let’s explore Kyoto together!
Reviews
Bill L.
“Great and thoughtful guide”
Jasmine was such a sweet and thoughtful guide. Even though it was so so hot she helped and guided us through the Arashiyama area and customized the tour to our needs. Thank you so much, Jasmine!
Jasmine L.
Thank you, Bill! I’m glad to hear that everyone had fun despite the weather! It was a pleasure meeting you and your family, and I truly enjoyed being your guide. I hope you enjoy the rest of your travels! :)
Harnek K.
“Private Tour Guide of Kyoto”
Wonderful Experience. Understood everything that was shown to us. I will highly recommend.
Jasmine L.
Thank you so much, Harnek! It was a pleasure showing you and your family around Kyoto. I’m really glad you enjoyed the tour! Wishing you a fun time in Japan and safe flight back home!!
Anna S.
“Wonderful Experience with Jasmine as Our Guide in Kyoto!”
We had the pleasure of being guided by Jasmine during our visit to Kyoto, and it truly was one of the highlights of our trip. She is very knowledgeable about the city’s history, culture, and hidden gems. She is also genuinely invested in giving her guests a memorable experience. 5 out of 5 :) Thank you Jasmine :) Jasmine took us to places we never would have found on our own :)
Jasmine L.
⸻ Hi Anna, Thank you so much for booking the tour—it was truly lovely meeting you and your family! I really enjoyed showing you around and spending time together. Wishing you all safe travels and wonderful memories for the rest of your trip!
$170/ per group
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