Kyoto Imperial Palace Grounds

We couldn't actually go inside the palace, because - as it turns out - you have to book your tours in advance with the palace committee. The grounds are expansive and beautiful and used as a public park.

Tuesday February 8, 2005

Kyoto Imperial Palace was the residence of Japan's imperial family until 1868, when the emperor and capital were moved from Kyoto to Tokyo. The palace burnt down and was moved around the city several times over the centuries. The present reconstruction dates from 1855. The palace complex is enclosed by a long wall and consists of several gates, halls and gardens.

A corner of the wall surrounding the inner courtyard. The wall is half a kilometre long.

Anime-like shadows on the courtyard wall.

One of the gates into the inner courtyard.

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