Nijo Castle Kyoto
Explore Nijo Castle, a UNESCO site showcasing samurai power with its 'nightingale floors' and exquisite gardens.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the crowds, enjoy peace
Nijo Castle Kyoto
Best Time
Beat the crowds, enjoy peace

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore Nijo Castle, a UNESCO site showcasing samurai power with its 'nightingale floors' and exquisite gardens.
"A must-visit for history lovers, offering a glimpse into Japan's feudal past with stunning architecture and gardens."
👟 Wear comfy shoes & socks
You'll need to remove shoes inside the palace. Bring socks for comfort and hygiene! :athletic_shoe:
📸 No photos inside palace
Capture the memories, but remember photos are prohibited inside the Ninomaru Palace. :camerawithflash:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Nightingale Floors
Ninomaru Palace
Hear the unique 'chirping' sound of these wooden floors, designed to alert guards to intruders.

Ninomaru Palace Interiors
Ninomaru Palace
Marvel at the intricate screen paintings and opulent samurai-era craftsmanship within the former residence.

Nijo Castle Gardens
Various garden areas
Wander through beautifully maintained Japanese gardens, offering a peaceful escape and seasonal beauty.
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for the Nightingale Floors
Advance Tickets Not Usually Needed
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear comfy shoes & socks
You'll need to remove shoes inside the palace. Bring socks for comfort and hygiene! :athletic_shoe:
📸 No photos inside palace
Capture the memories, but remember photos are prohibited inside the Ninomaru Palace. :camerawithflash:
If you had to choose in Kyoto
⏳ Allow ample time
Don't rush! The gardens are as much a highlight as the palace itself. Plan for 2-3 hours. :clock1:
💡 Check for special events
Nijo Castle hosts unique light-up events like NAKED FLOWERS, especially in autumn. :sparkles:
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Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear comfy shoes & socks
You'll need to remove shoes inside the palace. Bring socks for comfort and hygiene! :athletic_shoe:
📸 No photos inside palace
Capture the memories, but remember photos are prohibited inside the Ninomaru Palace. :camerawithflash:
⏳ Allow ample time
Don't rush! The gardens are as much a highlight as the palace itself. Plan for 2-3 hours. :clock1:
💡 Check for special events
Nijo Castle hosts unique light-up events like NAKED FLOWERS, especially in autumn. :sparkles:
📍 Easy to reach by train
Nijo Station is conveniently located on the JR and Tozai subway lines. :train2:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Nijo Castle is widely praised for its historical significance, stunning architecture, and beautiful gardens. Visitors are particularly captivated by the unique 'nightingale floors' and the intricate artwork within the Ninomaru Palace. While some find the palace interiors repetitive and note the lack of furniture, the overall experience is considered a must-do for its glimpse into Japan's feudal past.
"Nijō Castle is a massive but beautiful place full of history. The wooden palace rooms are amazing with old paintings, and the gardens are very peaceful to walk through. You can also hear the “nightingale floors” squeak when you walk, which is really fun. A great spot to learn about Japan’s past and enjoy nature. Parts of the castle are currently under renovation."
Alex Bezrukov
"This was one of my favorite stops during my trip to Japan. A little of everything. Neat architecture, beautiful art, interesting history, gorgeous gardens. There was space to explore inside and outside. There was cafe and gift shop. The space was popular but still not overcrowded. I would suggest this castle to others!"
Amy Shafer
"Nijo Castle is a beautiful ancient Japanese site full of beautiful gardens, architecture, art, and history. The grounds are maintained proudly and showcase the honor the community has for its past. The admission was not badly priced at all and goes towards the restoration of the site so definitely worth it. Nice thing was it was not crowded, though we arrived when it first opened. We also ate in one of the building which served refreshments and deserts, both were so delicious with welcoming and friendly wait staff. This is definitely a must see!"
Sam Waterman
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Nijo Castle is easily accessible from Kyoto Station. You can take the JR Sagano Line to Nijo Station (about 10 minutes) or the Tozai Subway Line directly to Nijojo-mae Station, which is right in front of the castle. Many travelers find the subway the most convenient option. :train2:
Staying near Nijo Castle can be very convenient, especially if you prefer to avoid the bustle of Kyoto Station. The area is well-served by the Tozai and Karasuma subway lines, offering good access to various parts of the city. :world_map:
Many hotels are located within walking distance or a short transit ride from Nijo Castle. If you're staying in the central Kyoto area, it's often a pleasant walk or a quick subway hop. :walking:
The closest subway station is Nijojo-mae Station on the Tozai Line, which is directly opposite the castle entrance. Nijo Station, serving both JR and Tozai lines, is also a short walk away. :subway:
Yes, Nijo Castle is very well-connected by public transport. Both JR trains and subway lines stop nearby, making it a straightforward destination for visitors. :bus:
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Generally, you do not need to buy tickets in advance for Nijo Castle. Tickets can be purchased on the day of your visit at the entrance. This makes it easy for spontaneous visits. :ticket:
Admission fees are reasonable and contribute to the restoration of the site. Prices can vary slightly, so it's best to check the official website or purchase on-site. The cost is generally considered worth it for the historical and cultural experience. :moneybag:
Nijo Castle typically opens around 8:45 AM and closes in the late afternoon, often around 4:00 PM or 5:00 PM, with last admission usually an hour before closing. Hours can vary seasonally, so it's wise to check the official website before your visit. :clock1:
While general admission covers the main palace and gardens, there might be specific tours or areas that require separate booking or have limited access. It's worth checking if any special exhibits or guided tours are available. :information_desk:
Nijo Castle is accessible via several Kyoto City Bus routes. If you have a bus pass, it can be a cost-effective way to reach the castle, especially if you plan on using buses for other sightseeing. :bus:
📸 📸 Photography & Onsite Experience
Photography is strictly prohibited inside the Ninomaru Palace. This is to protect the delicate artwork and historical artifacts. You can take photos in the gardens and exterior areas. :camerawithflash:
The 'nightingale floors' are a security feature within the Ninomaru Palace. They are designed to creak when walked upon, alerting residents to any intruders. It's a fascinating historical detail to experience. :sound:
Most visitors spend around 2 to 3 hours at Nijo Castle. This allows time to explore the Ninomaru Palace, appreciate the gardens, and perhaps enjoy a refreshment at the cafe. :stopwatch:
While not always advertised, guided tours might be available, especially for specific areas or in different languages. It's best to inquire at the information center upon arrival for current offerings. :microphone:
The castle grounds feature extensive and beautiful Japanese gardens, including the Ninomaru Garden and the Seiryu-en Garden. These offer a tranquil contrast to the historical buildings and are a highlight for many visitors. :park:
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a cafe located within the Nijo Castle grounds where you can enjoy refreshments and light meals. It's a convenient spot to take a break during your visit. :coffee:
The area around Nijo Castle offers a variety of dining options, from traditional Japanese restaurants to casual eateries. You can find places serving ramen, udon, and other local specialties. :ramen:
While picnics are generally not permitted inside the main palace or formal garden areas, you might be able to find designated spots for eating if you bring your own food. It's best to check the castle's specific rules. :sandwich:
🎫 🏨 Accommodation
Yes, there are several hotels and accommodations located near Nijo Castle, ranging from budget-friendly options to more upscale establishments. Staying in this area offers good access to the castle and public transport. :bed:
Staying near Nijo Castle provides easy access to the historical site and excellent public transportation links. It's often considered a less stressful alternative to staying right next to the busy Kyoto Station. :housewithgarden:
Hiz Hotel Kyoto Nijo Castle is one of the accommodation options located in the vicinity of Nijo Castle, offering convenient access for visitors. :hotel: [^SEO]
While modern hotels are more common, you might find some traditional Japanese inns (ryokans) in the broader Kyoto area that are accessible from Nijo Castle. :japanese_castle: [^SEO]
Stay Sakura Kyoto Nijo Seasons is a type of accommodation, likely an apartment hotel or guesthouse, situated near Nijo Castle, offering a comfortable stay for travelers. :apartmentwithgarden: [^SEO]
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶 Budget Travelers
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Significance of Nijo Castle
The Ninomaru Palace is the primary attraction, renowned for its 'nightingale floors' that chirp underfoot, a clever security measure. The palace walls are adorned with stunning screen paintings by the Kano school of artists, depicting scenes from nature and Chinese legends. These artworks, though some are reproductions, offer a glimpse into the aesthetic values and artistic prowess of the Edo period. The castle's architecture itself is a testament to the craftsmanship of the era, utilizing cypress wood and intricate joinery.
Beyond the palace, the extensive gardens are a major draw. The Ninomaru Garden is a traditional Japanese landscape garden, featuring a central pond, meticulously placed rocks, and manicured pine trees. The Seiryu-en Garden, added later, offers a different style with larger rocks and a more expansive feel. These gardens provide a serene environment for visitors to reflect on the castle's rich history and enjoy the beauty of Japanese landscape design.
Experiencing the 'Nightingale Floors' and Palace Interiors
Inside the Ninomaru Palace, you'll find a series of rooms that showcase the grandeur of the shogunate. While photography is prohibited inside to preserve the delicate artwork, the visual impact of the Kano school screen paintings is unforgettable. These vibrant murals depict scenes of nature, animals, and historical narratives, reflecting the wealth and status of the Tokugawa clan. The architecture itself, with its dark wood, intricate carvings, and spacious layouts, conveys a sense of authority and refined taste. Many visitors note that while the rooms might appear similar at first glance, each has its own unique artistic and historical significance.
Exploring the Nijo Castle Gardens
Another significant garden is the Seiryu-en Garden, which was added later and offers a different aesthetic. This garden is characterized by its larger rock formations and a more expansive layout, providing a sense of depth and grandeur. Strolling through these meticulously maintained grounds allows visitors to appreciate the harmony between architecture and nature that is central to Japanese garden design. Whether you're a history enthusiast or simply seeking a peaceful retreat, the Nijo Castle gardens are a must-experience part of your visit.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit