Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
TOP SIGHTS
NIJŌ-JŌ
Standing like a direct challenge to the power of the Emperor in the nearby Imperial Palace, the shōgun castle of
Nijō-jō is a stunning monument to the power of the warlords who effectively ruled Japan for centuries. For those
with an interest in Japan's feudal past and an eye for magnificent interiors, Nijō-jō is a fascinating destination. In
addition to stunning (almost rococo) interiors, the castle grounds contain expansive gardens that are perfect for a
relaxing stroll.
DON'T MISS
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Seiryu-en
PRACTICALITIES
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841-0096
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541 Nijōjō-chō, Horikawa Nishi iru, Nijō-dōri, Nakagyō-ku
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admission ¥600
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8.45am-5pm, closed Tue in Dec, Jan, Jul & Aug
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5min walk from Nijōjō-mae Station, Tōzai subway line
Nijō-jō (
二条城
) was built in 1603 as the official residence of Tokugawa Ieyasu. The
ostentatious style was intended as a demonstration of Ieyasu's prestige and to signal the de-
mise of the emperor's power.
To safeguard against treachery, Ieyasu had the interior fitted with 'nightingale' floors (in-
truders were detected by the squeaking boards) and concealed chambers where bodyguards
could keep watch and spring out at a moment's notice.
In 1868 the last Tokugawa shōgun, Yoshinobu, surrendered his power to the newly re-
stored Emperor Meiji inside Nijō-jō.
Nijō-jō is built on land that was originally occupied by the 8th-century Imperial Palace,
which was abandoned in 1227. The Shinsen-en Garden, just south of the castle, is all that
remains of the original palace. This forlorn garden has small shrines and pond.
