Kyoto Sento Imperial Palace

Visiting the Kyoto Imperial Palace was one of the most memorable experiences of my time in Japan. From the moment I arrived, I was impressed by the warm and welcoming staff who guided visitors with a genuine friendliness. They were always approachable, ready to answer questions, and seemed truly proud to share the history and cultural significance of the palace. Their enthusiasm added so much value to the visit, making the atmosphere feel both informative and inviting. Another aspect that stood out to me was the high level of security throughout the grounds. The Imperial Palace is an important cultural and historical site, and the staff and security teams worked seamlessly to ensure the environment felt safe and well looked after. Security was present but not intrusive — you could enjoy the beauty of the gardens, architecture, and historical surroundings with complete peace of mind. The combination of the palace’s stunning traditional design, beautifully maintained grounds, and the professionalism of both staff and security made my visit exceptional. It wasn’t just about seeing the historical site; it was about experiencing it in a safe, comfortable, and well-supported environment. I would highly recommend visiting the Kyoto Imperial Palace to anyone interested in Japan’s history and heritage.

Came here in May 2017, lucky enough I had just turned 21 so I could come in to the imperial palace gardens via tour guide. the gardens as you can see were stunning the pictures really don't descibe or do it jutice to how beautiful this place is!

Absolutely beautiful. We went in the morning, admission is free (at least when we went). Scenery is great and full of history, with lots of signs in both Japanese and English describing everything. Make sure to stop by when in Kyoto.

Similar to the main Imperial Palace, it features a mixture of traditional architecture and spectacular generational gardens. To visit the Sento Palace, you must do so with a guide and as part of a group since it is still used as an imperial residence in Kyoto (it is free, and staff in front of the entrance will help you sign up for the tour). Beware that the tour is only of the gardens, and you can partly see the actual imperial residence.

The free guided tour will take 50 mins. Rule is you are not allowed to drop out midway. Unfortunately I did not bring my passport along and the Visit Japan Web app with my passport info CANNOT be accepted for registration.

If you ever find yourself in Kyoto, don’t miss the chance to visit the Kyoto Imperial Palace. Before the capital moved to Tokyo, this was the heart of Japan’s imperial history—and walking through its peaceful grounds feels like stepping back in time. The architecture is elegant, the gardens are serene, and best of all, it’s free to enter. There’s something really special about being able to see centuries of Japanese history up close in such a beautifully preserved place. It’s not just a sightseeing spot—it’s a quiet, powerful reminder of Japan’s cultural legacy.

The gardens were absolutely beautiful. I will definitely have to check it out in other seasons.

The Kyoto Imperial Palace is a stunning historical site, offering a glimpse into Japan’s royal past. The architecture is beautiful, with traditional wooden buildings and lovely gardens surrounding them. The palace grounds are expansive, making it a peaceful place to walk around and enjoy the serene atmosphere. The free guided tours are informative and provide a deeper understanding of the history and significance of the palace. While it may not be as flashy as other attractions, the Kyoto Imperial Palace is a must-visit for anyone interested in Japan’s culture and history.