The red-brick station recovered its original appearance in 2012 after the war. It's said that it expresses the essence of Europe. In 1914, it was completed. That was the time when Japan ended feudal ages or Samurai period and modernization was progressing to catch up with the Great Powers of Western countries. This red-brick building was one of the symboles of such modernization of those days.

Let's take a picture in front of this beautiful station !

Why do these moats surround the Imperial Palace ? Tatsumi Turret has the answer to the question.

Let's take a picture in front of the beautiful Tatsumi Turret and Kikyou Moat !

　On Mondays and Fridays, the Imperial East Garden is closed, so we go on the Route 1. Without these days, we have two choices.

　On the Route 1, we can see the Fujimi Turret, 30 meters high, where Shogun (samurai leader) appreciated Mt. Fuji and fireworks of Ryougoku. Sakashita-mon gate of the Imperial Palace, now actually, is the gate of the Imperial Household Agency.

　On the other hand, the Route 2 gives us a view of a typical ancient fortress gate (Ote-mon gate) and high-rize modern buildings. What a sharp contrast !

Route 1---"Doubled Bridges" is an extremely popular photo spot for tourists.

And Sakurada moat is beautiful and the Sakurada-mon gate is the scene of a historical event.

Route 2--- The Imperial East Garden is an oasis with its beautiful seasonal flowers and trees.

Route 1---Nanko Square has a statue of Kusunoki Masashige, a brave samurai, in the center. "Nanko" is his nickname. His rest house includes a restaurant & a souvenir shop.

Brick Square has the first red brick building in this area (restored one) and now, an oasis for Marunouchi workers.

Route 2---The Ninomaru Garden was designed for strolling around a pond. We can enjoy changing views while walking.

Route 1--- Tokyo Station

Route 2--- at Ote-mon Gate or Ote-machi Station (metro)