| Popularity | ★★★★★（5/5） Most Japanese people visit at least once in their lifetime |
| Place | 541 Nijojocho, Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture, Japan. |
| Opening Time | 8:45~16:00 (Closing time: 17:00) |
| English-speaking Guides | available |
| Ticket prices | Nijo-jo Castle/Ninomaru-goten Palace : 1,300yen Nijo-jo Castle : 800 yen Children under school : free Buy Ticket Online |
| Ways to pay | ・Credit cards (Visa and Mastercard) ・Contactless smart cards such as Suica and other Japanese transport fare cards ・QR code payments Alipay and WeChat Pay ・Cash |
| Access | A 3-minute walk from Nijo-Mae Station （Subway Tozai Line） |
| Official Website | https://nijo-jocastle.city.kyoto.lg.jp/?lang=en |
Must-Visit in Kyoto
One of the places most Japanese people visit at least once in their lifetime is Nijo Castle, which was built approximately 400 years ago. This castle is registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and holds significant cultural importance within Japan. Not only is it popular among Japanese visitors, but it also attracts millions of tourists from around the world every year, making it a highly renowned tourist destination.
In Japan, there is a cultural tradition known as “school trips,” where middle and high school students spend about three days visiting historical sites. Many schools include Kyoto in their itineraries, and Nijo Castle is often a highlight of these trips.
Nijo Castle’s appeal extends beyond its stunning architecture, as it boasts an exquisite and serene Japanese garden. Moreover, the castle holds historical significance due to its connection to pivotal events in Japanese history, making it an ideal location for learning about Japan’s past. For the convenience of visitors, English-speaking guides are available on-site, allowing you to explore and enjoy the experience with confidence.
History of Nijo Castle
Currently, the Emperor of Japan resides in Tokyo; however, prior to the Meiji Restoration in 1869, the Emperor resided in Kyoto.
Nijo Castle was constructed in 1601 by the first shogun of the Tokugawa shogunate, Tokugawa Ieyasu, to defend the Imperial Palace. Nijo Castle also served as a lodging for the shogun during his stays in Kyoto.
During the Edo period, the Tokugawa shogunate held political authority in Japan. However, differing opinions on how to respond to Commodore Perry’s arrival from the United States led to a weakening of the Tokugawa’s power. Eventually, the political leadership was returned to the Emperor, and the ceremony marking this transition took place at Nijo Castle.
Nightingale Floors
“Nightingale floors” are a traditional architectural technique in Japan, and they are also found in Nijo Castle. Corridors constructed using this method produce a creaking sound when walked upon, allowing inhabitants to detect the intrusion of individuals, including ninjas. This sound is likened to the chirping of nightingales, giving rise to the term “Nightingale floors.”
In modern times, this technique has been lost, and it is no longer possible to create corridors that produce such creaking sounds.
Japanese Garden in Nijo Castle
Nijo Castle features various Japanese gardens like “Kouyuntei,” “Waraku-an,” and the “Honmaru Garden.” Especially during spring, the cherry blossoms are in full bloom, creating an exceptionally beautiful sight. The city of Kyoto invests efforts into meticulously maintaining these Japanese gardens, attracting numerous visitors to Nijo Castle for the purpose of experiencing these tranquil and captivating landscapes.
Restaurants near Nijo Castle
1. Nakatsuka
A French restaurant that has been awarded one Michelin star. This restaurant was opened by Chef Nakatsuka after honing his skills at numerous renowned establishments in Europe.
| Budget | 20,000~29,999 yen |
| Categories | French |
| Notes | By reservation only |